August, 2015 – Graham Miln

St Michaels – Bath

St Michaels is a beautiful church in the centre of Bath. Inevitably overshadowed by Bath Abby, St Michaels contains a stunningly modernised interior.

Panoramic view inside St Michaels in Bath

St Michaels has clearly moved with the times. Inside the walls are crisp, clean, and the upper level is a delight. The walkway from staircase to the church offices is a delightful mixture of traditional wooden railings with modern glass floor.

It is not only the decoration that has moved with the times, a cafe has made its home at the back of the church. Nestled behind the pews is seating, a few tables, and a dedicated food and drink preparation area.

The decision to commit so fully to becoming a more welcoming useful space must have been difficult. It took a few moments to become comfortable with the sacrilege but what purpose is an empty dying church? Better to embrace a daring path, than suffer an assured decay.

St Michaels, Bath
St Michaels, Bath

Traditional church seating and cafe seating
Traditional church seating and cafe seating

Food and drink preparation for the cafe
Food and drink preparation for the cafe

Stain glass window
Stain glass window

St Michaels Church, Bath
St Michaels Church, Bath

Stairs leading to the upper level
Stairs leading to the upper level