Bristol charity seeks architectural feasibility study to improve community hub accessibility

What do they need help with?

Lighthouse Vineyard Bristol is seeking pro bono architectural support to carry out a feasibility study for The Harbour, a newly acquired community hub in Totterdown, South Bristol. The building—formerly a Methodist Church—comprises three large halls and significant office space, and is now home to a wide range of local groups and activities.

The church acquired the building to preserve it as a vital community asset and has already made important progress. In the past 18 months, they have:

• Installed infrared heating in three halls and the office space
• Upgraded the building’s electrical system to three-phase
• Removed fixed pews to allow for flexible use of space

They are now ready for the next stage: improving accessibility and maximising the building’s potential. Specifically, they need support with:

A feasibility study to assess options for:

• Making the toilets accessible
• Improving the accessibility and visual appeal of the front entrance
• Exploring use of currently unused space under the sanctuary
• Optimising potential entrances

The goal is to make The Harbour more welcoming and inclusive for the diverse local community, ensuring that residents of all ages and abilities feel encouraged to engage with the space. They have secured a significant donation to invest in these improvements, and are looking for expert guidance on how best to prioritise and design these changes.

The Harbour is located just south of Bristol’s Temple Quarter regeneration area, meaning it is well placed to serve a growing and changing population. While the area has a strong community spirit, many residents still face social isolation, limited access to services and economic inequality. The building is already home to youth groups, support groups, creative projects and wellbeing initiatives, and further development will enhance its role as a much-needed hub of connection and support in South Bristol.

Timeline

As soon as possible

About the organisation

Lighthouse Vineyard Bristol is a local Christian church rooted in the Totterdown community. While faith shapes their identity, their mission reaches far beyond the congregation, focusing on compassion, wellbeing and connection for all residents—regardless of belief or background.

In 2024, they purchased a neighbouring former Methodist church to preserve it as a community space. Now renamed The Harbour, the building offers three halls and office space for local groups, support services, arts, and cultural events. Their vision is to create a thriving, inclusive hub that strengthens community bonds and supports practical action across generations.

Totterdown is a vibrant but evolving area facing pressures from regeneration and rising inequality. The Harbour responds to this with open access, affordable space and a strong emphasis on inclusion and opportunity. It also plays a role in early intervention to help prevent youth homelessness, offering structured activities and trusted support for young people and families.

https://www.theharbourtotterdown.org