Client: Sisters of Compassion
Project Type: Commercial Building
Project Timeframe: 2015-2017
Architects: Studio Pacific Architecture
A new side chapel with a bespoke new tomb is now the final resting place of Mother Suzanne Aubert, founder of the Sisters of Compassion. Mother Aubert died in 1926 after a life dedicated to helping the poor. The chapel is on a site nestled in the hills near the entrance to Island Bay, which has been transformed to create the Suzanne Aubert Heritage Centre.
The new chapel was one of the project’s six stages. It adjoins the main chapel and has a sloping brink roof, rose tinted concrete, bespoke stain glass windows, and a curved slatted ceiling.
LT McGuinness helped to transfer Mother Aubert’s body into the tomb, using a pulley system we had devised. The recess size had been extensively checked in conjunction with consultants and subcontractors, and the stone shroud that covers the tomb was constructed in such a way that the body could be placed inside and the tomb rejoined.
The five other stages of the project included
In the accommodation wing, 20 ensuite rooms and their bathrooms were refurbished as part of upgrading the retreat facilities.
