The Decline of Modern Religion in Scotland and its Impact on the Use

and Design of Religious Buildings.

The decline of religion in modern society is strongly impacting how we interact with
our surrounding environments absolutely. The ef f ects of which can be seen in how we
treat the built environment we have inherited f rom past generations. Beyond the chosen
f ew, vast swathes of religious buildings that previously held devoted congregations
now lie derelict, of ten slated to become ill-fitting residential redevelopment projects.

I Intend to interrogate the historic program of this heavily regimented typology to

understand the basic principles of its function, that millions have f ollowed, unwaveringly,
through time. To see through research how both the religion and edifice evolved
together to best allow pilgrims to connect with their God.

Even today, these buildings are safe spaces f or deep and intimate connection between
inhabitants, of f ering them a solemn space to pause and ref lect on the tragedies of their
lif e in one state, that transf orms into a hive of unified worship as congregations gather.
What is it about these buildings that allow f or such profound connections between
strangers that aren’t present in concentration or potency in any other typology?
Furthermore, how does the seemingly rigid formation of traditional religious buildings
encourage individual reflection and collective praise simultaneously?

Parallels present in seemingly unrelated typologies such as concert halls and stadiums
show similar pseudo-religious practices; with thousands congregating to watch miracles
performed by (almost) super-human athletes and musicians. However, these modern
buildings operate differently to their religious counterparts, servicing the numerous
repeat visitors systematically with carefully planned circulation & facilities. What
elements of these hyper-ef f icient commercial venues can be imitated within a modern
building of worship to create a more accessible environment f or worship.

Within a wider context, the ability f or these religious institutions to become central
nodes f or community cannot be overstated. An eternally inviting edif ice for meetings,
celebrations and bereavements within a neighbourhood clearly indicates the civic heart
f or people to gravitate towards to share in life’s milestones.

Without these institutions, as seen in recent years (most notably exemplif ied by the
COVID-19 pandemic), neighbourhoods become increasingly fractured and antisocial.
Pushing us ever quicker into a digitized world experienced f rom our tiny houses.

The challenge of changing steadfast minds, whose mental image of religion takes on the
visage of a church, mosque or synagogue. Convincing them to cross the threshold
towards the understanding arms of an edif ice, purely offering solace f rom the challenges
of lif e. Converting the stern appearance of these judgmental edif ices into a more
playful visage that intrigues passersby to venture in.

Donald Alan Morrison BArch(Hons) PgDip