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Between the 16 main frames are sited the chapels which form the walls of the cathedral

by stained glass windows. Each with individual identity, these buildings merge from a distance to become walls of the cathedral.

The free-standing entrance porch and bell tower gives direction to the circular plan and forms an introduc- tory space to the nave.

The walls are of Portland stone, to weather silver grey, the reinforced concrete structural frame is clad in white mosaic, and the pre-cast con- crete of the conical roof is sheeted with aluminium, which will weather powder grey.

The whole structure stands on a vast surrounding podium which pro- vides two-level vehicle pedestrian segregation beneath the nave. The lower floor contains the sacristies and other offices, and the forming-up area leading to a curved processional ramp emerging in the nave; facilities for the essential heating and other services; and a car park for 200 vehicles, together with a lift for the infirm.

The podium is also an extension to the roof of an existing crypt, part of the pre-war design for a cathedral by Sir Edwin Lutyens. Work on the crypt ceased with the 1939 war and in 1960 Mr. Gibberd's design was selected for a new building from nearly 300 entries.

The cost of the actual building was in the region of £11⁄2m. The cost in- cluding all works of art such as the stained glass, together with supporting buildings such as the convent and presbytery and completion of the old

LOFTHOUSE- -TONY L

Cutaway perspective drawing by Tony Lofthouse of Frederick Gibberd and Partners

Far East Architect & Builder July, 1967