Sacred Heart Cathedral | Kericho

Sacred Heart Cathedral in Kericho is a remarkable piece of religious and architectural significance, combining modern design with local craftsmanship and a deep connection to the surrounding environment and community. It serves as the seat of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Kericho, which was established in 1995, and stands as a spiritual and cultural hub for the local population.

Architectural Design

The design of Sacred Heart Cathedral is rooted in a contemporary aesthetic, yet it incorporates local materials and construction techniques that make it distinctly Kenyan. The cathedral was designed by John McAslan + Partners, a renowned architecture firm, in collaboration with local architects, engineers, and artisans.

Key elements of the cathedral's architecture include:

Sweeping Curved Roof:

The most striking feature of the cathedral is its large, curved roof that sweeps upwards, resembling the shape of a bird in flight. This symbolic design represents the Holy Spirit.

The roof is clad in red clay tiles arranged in a subtle pattern that evokes the image of wheat, symbolizing the Eucharist and the spiritual nourishment it represents.

Exposed Concrete A-frames and Timber Ribbing:

Inside, the space is defined by exposed structural elements such as concrete A-frames and timber ribbing that give the cathedral a bold, modern aesthetic while remaining true to the material integrity of its design.

The ceiling features locally sourced cypress timber slats, which add warmth and natural texture to the interior.

Natural Ventilation:

The cathedral’s design incorporates natural ventilation, with wide openings along the transepts and multiple exits. This allows for fresh airflow and creates an open, airy feeling inside.

The use of natural ventilation is a sustainable design choice that minimizes the need for artificial cooling and ensures the cathedral remains comfortable, even during hot weather.

Light-Colored Terrazzo Walls:

The walls of the cathedral are finished with light-colored terrazzo, which reflects light and adds a sense of openness to the large interior space.

Accessibility and Community Interaction:

The cathedral is designed with accessibility in mind, with easy entry points and terraces that open up to the surrounding landscape, making it both a spiritual and communal space. This connection to the outdoors is significant in creating a sense of unity between the church and the natural world.

Local Materials and Craftsmanship

The use of local materials is a key feature of the cathedral’s design, not just for aesthetic reasons, but also to support the local economy and minimize the environmental footprint of construction. Materials such as timber, granite, stone, clay tiles, and concrete were sourced locally, ensuring that the building reflects the cultural identity of the region.

Timber from local forests: The cypress timber used in the ceiling is sourced from nearby forests, aligning with the sustainable and eco-friendly principles of the design.

Clay tiles and stones: The red clay tiles that cover the roof and the stones used for certain elements of the structure were harvested from the surrounding area, connecting the cathedral to the land and resources of Kericho.

Local artisans also played a significant role in creating elements of the cathedral, including stained glass windows, wooden doors, and furniture, ensuring that the building truly represents the cultural and artistic heritage of the community.

Spiritual and Community Role

Sacred Heart Cathedral is not just an architectural landmark; it is a vital part of the religious and social fabric of the area. It serves as the center of Catholic worship for Kericho, and its design is intended to create a welcoming, reflective space for the congregation.

The interior space can accommodate up to 1,500 people, making it a gathering place for both regular mass services and larger community events.

The cathedral is designed to foster a sense of unity and collective spirituality, with the large, open space and the high ceiling enhancing the sense of reverence during services.

The symbolism embedded in the architecture (such as the bird-shaped roof and the wheat pattern) reinforces the themes of spiritual nourishment, protection, and divine presence.

Beyond religious services, the cathedral also serves as a cultural center, where the local community can come together for important events, celebrations, and educational purposes.

Recognition and Awards

The cathedral has received numerous awards and accolades for its architectural design, recognizing its excellence in combining modern architectural principles with local cultural traditions. Some of the awards include:

Chicago Athenaeum International Architecture Award (2017)

Civic Trust Awards (National Panel Special Award, 2017)

British Construction Industry Award (Judges’ Special Award, 2017)

Faith and Form Awards (2016)

These awards highlight the cathedral’s status as not only a spiritual landmark but also a symbol of architectural innovation.

Visiting Sacred Heart Cathedral

The cathedral is open to visitors, both those coming for religious purposes and those interested in its architectural beauty. Visitors can explore:

The interior, with its high ceilings, wide spaces, and beautiful stained-glass windows.

The landscaped gardens and terraces that surround the cathedral, offering a peaceful environment for reflection and relaxation.

The local community: The cathedral provides a chance for visitors to experience the vibrant culture and spirituality of the people of Kericho.

Kericho itself, with its lush tea plantations and cool highland climate, provides a wonderful backdrop for visiting the cathedral, making it a destination for both spiritual enrichment and architectural exploration.

Conclusion

Sacred Heart Cathedral is an exceptional example of modern religious architecture that seamlessly integrates into its local context, both in terms of design and material. It serves as a central place of worship, a cultural symbol for the people of Kericho, and an architectural landmark that continues to inspire both local residents and visitors. Through its use of local materials, sustainable design practices, and community involvement, the cathedral is a testament to how architecture can serve not only aesthetic and spiritual needs but also contribute to environmental sustainability and cultural identity.