Church of the Most Holy Redeemer, Belfast

The Church of the Most Holy Redeemer in Clonard is a treasured place of worship and a significant architectural landmark in West Belfast. Built in 1911 in the Early French Gothic style, its interior had seen little work for nearly a century. To mark its centenary, the Redemptorist community began a major restoration to bring the interior back to its original glory. Led by Consarc Conservation, the project followed earlier repairs to the roof and stonework. Working closely with the priests and local community, the team developed a careful conservation programme based on historic research, reinstating lost decorative motifs and restoring original colour schemes. The restoration included sensitive cleaning and repair of stained glass, mosaics, timberwork, and marble altars. The mosaics, created by artists such as Ludwig Oppenheimer and Gabriel Loire, were steam-cleaned to remove a century of residue without harming the delicate tesserae, while ceiling panels and organ pipes were redecorated using traditional methods.

A new insulated floor with underfloor heating was installed throughout the nave, finished with decorative tiles that echo the original encaustic flooring patterns. Lighting was redesigned to improve energy efficiency and to showcase the craftsmanship and religious iconography. Minimal changes were made to the layout, with the sanctuary adapted to better accommodate the large congregation during events like the annual Solemn Novena. A new stone forecourt with planters and seating offers a welcoming entrance to the church. This restoration not only protects the building’s fabric but also enhances its role in the community. Thanks to the skill of local craftspeople and the dedication of the Redemptorists, Clonard Church remains a place of faith, memory and beauty.