OUR LADY OF MOUNT CARMEL, WATERLOO

LOCATION: Waterloo, NSW
CLIENT: Archdiocese of Sydney

Since its dedication by Sydney’s first Archbishop Bede Polding in 1861, the historic church of Our Lady of Mount Carmel at Waterloo has seen a number of changes over its life. A significant fire in the 1950s caused damage to the sanctuary and the loss of the original high altar reredos.

The addition of a second altar in the 1970s along with various other accretions resulted in a crowded sanctuary that eventually needed rationalisation and renewal.

The renovated sanctuary with its new altar, reredos and parquetry floor is inspired by the original gothic high altar and reredos from before the fire. The renovation also includes a new presider’s chair and lectern. Unlike its predecessor the new altar arrangement is designed to meet the requirements of the Church following the liturgical reforms of the Second Vatican Council whilst maintaining a clear link with the historic memory of the original sanctuary.

Builder: Excelsis Projects

Joiner: Wayne Mavin & Co (Photos by Chris Bennett)

Side Chapel Altar Restoration works: Fidelium Woodworking