The form of the altar resembles a sarcophagus and is made from a single travertine block that 'floats' on a plinth of dark stained oak similar to the material of the choir stalls and seating. The bone coloured surface full of natural, open pores and fissures is hand polished suggesting wounds, skin and body. The altar top has the pores infilled and its centre area is subtly illuminated to achieve a transfigured expression.

The altar is a simple design where the presence is revealed subtly from within and is complimentary to the new East Window. Both suggest a presence revealed through absence. 

St Martin-in-the-Fields, Trafalgar Square, London.

Completed, 2011.

In collaboration with Shirazeh Houshiary.

Photos by James Morris.