BLDD was given the challenging task of creating a sacred space to replace the downtown Bloomington landmark, which carried a great deal of sentimental attachment. As a result of developing a master plan, a fellowship hall was constructed to connect the church’s three buildings into one contiguous facility. The fellowship hall was designed to accommodate a temporary worship setting during subsequent phases when the 1895 sanctuary building was being refurbished.
The design for the 1,000-seat sanctuary incorporated stained glass and limestone from the original building and added a south entrance. In addition, the sanctuary was designed to acoustically enhance the strong music program developed by the church.
How do we connect the church’s three buildings into one contiguous facility?
Developed a master plan that included the construction of a fellowship hall to connect the church’s three buildings into one contiguous facility designed to accommodate a temporary worship setting during renovations.
- Master planning
- Phase1: fellowship hall
- Phase 2: 1,000 seat sanctuary
- Acoustic environment
- AIA Design Award WInner
- Solomon Award: Best Church Design Expansion Project
- Stained glass and limestone from the original building bring together old and new
Intentionally designed to not look like a traditional religious space, Eastview Christian church sits on a crest of hill among 95 acres of farmland. Beginning as a master plan and adding subsequent additions to address the growing congregation, the space now accommodates worship, teaching and recreation venues.
Geneseo First United Methodist Church asked BLDD to develop a master plan for its downtown location, which is adjacent to a residential area and the City Center. This challenging site included multiple city blocks and required building additions and renovations. In order to accomplish these goals, a phased master plan was created. This plan supports growth in all church ministry areas including: worship, gathering and christian education space for all age groups.
Willow Crystal Lake started with a vision for a space that could reach out to the community and serve as many people as possible. We helped them create a master plan that is a direct reflection of the core convictions and mission of the church. The open and inviting design is an intentional feature that connects the building to the site and the entire community. The goal of Phase 1 was to create a new worship center and then use as much of the existing structure for all of the other ministry spaces.