The significant restoration of St. Mark’s Parish Church in Newtownards exemplifies our unwavering dedication to the conservation of historic buildings in Northern Ireland.
St. Mark’s Parish Church, in Newtownards, boasts a rich history that mirrors the development of its local community and the evolution of their faith. Founded in the mid-19th century, the church was consecrated in 1851 and has served as a vital place of worship and reflection for the Anglican population in the region. Distinguished by its Gothic Revival architectural style, the building features pointed arches and exquisite stained glass windows, enhancing its visual allure.
As the surrounding community grew, so did St. Mark’s role within it. The church emerged as a central hub for various parish activities, including educational programs, community outreach, and social gatherings, fostering a strong sense of connection among its congregants. Over the years, St. Mark’s has undergone multiple renovations and restorations to meet the evolving needs of its community while preserving its historical integrity. Today, it stands not only as a place of worship but also as a symbol of the enduring legacy of faith and community in Newtownards.
The original materials used to construct the church in the mid-19th century were locally sourced; however, these options were no longer available for the restoration project. This led us to the meticulous process of sourcing a suitable replacement stone that would maintain the historical authenticity of the building. After careful consideration, Indian Mint Sandstone was selected as the closest match.
All the stones were manufactured locally at our state-of-the-art facility in Saintfield, Northern Ireland. Additionally, the building underwent repointing using traditional lime mortar, which is preferred for its ability to allow the structure to breathe, facilitating moisture exchange and preventing weather-related damage in the future.
Read more about our process here.
This restoration project proudly represents our portfolio of local restoration projects. We are confident that the work completed will ensure that this beautiful church remains a cherished institution for generations to come.
