St Marys, Becontree,
Dagenham, East London
St Marys sits at the heart of a large residential part of East London. The project brief had two aims, to enhance worship but also to create a facility that would enable the church to play a greater role within its community.
The architecture of the church enabled a large cinema screen and projector to be installed in such a way as to be almost invisible. When required, a simple press of a button lowering them into exactly the correct location.
The sound system was also completely upgraded with directional multi purpose column speakers, new amplification, microphone, mixer and system upgrade throughout installed.
Where we started
It’s amazing to see the transformation.
The description of the congregation turning to look at the TV’s when hymn words were displayed perhaps sums up the extent of the transformation.
One moment looking forwards and then as one looking to their nearest TV.
The New Screen Arrives
keeping visual intrusion to a minimum was a core objective.
The 5.5 mtr wide screen has been suspended from a balcony within the church tower 10 mtrs from the floor.
From this less obtrusive position it can then roll down to the correct required location.
Screen in two sections
Keeping the screen and projector out of sight was a core part of the proposed design. This was achieved by suspending both items from the balcony within the church tower.
The screen is built in two sections with the case lowering via motors and straps at either end stopping at a pre set position from where the screen itself can then be revealed.
Projector lift
In the same way as for the screen keeping the projector hidden when not in use was achieved by using a small retractable lift.
Suspended from the balcony at a height of 10 mtrs installation access required the use of a cherry picker.
