One of the major design challenges involved preserving the character of the distinctive neo-Gothic design of the original sanctuary (which seated 1,400), while expanding to seat 3,400 worshipers. It was essential that the greatly enlarged new space capture the character of the original neo-Gothic design, yet still seat a choir of 250 and provide state-of-the-art broadcast quality television, audio/visual, and lighting accommodations. Maximum flexibility was required in the chancel/choir areas to meet a wide range of requirements for musical/theatrical productions and to accommodate and display one of the largest pipe organs in the United States.

Adding to the enormity of the project was the necessity to develop strategies and coordinate deployment of church activities and equipment into interim spaces while renovations and additions were in progress for the 7,000 member congregation. In response to this, the firm conceived, planned and coordinated the very complex construction phasing necessary to complete the work with no shut-down of activities or services, and also coordinated the input of some 27 different consultants. The completed project includes the new 43,569 square foot sanctuary, plus new administrative, educational, kitchen/dining and fellowship hall spaces totaling 150,395 square feet.

The fellowship hall was designed to seat 1,500 persons for theatrical/musical productions and seat 1,000 at meals, and it was specially designed to function as an interim worship space while the main sanctuary was being expanded. The new music suite features a rehearsal room to seat 500, plus a robing area and a music library.

Overall, the firm provided complete services for space planning, interior design and furniture selection for some 25,000 square feet of new and renovated space. The high level of quality of this project has been widely recognized, as evidenced by the firm being awarded an AIA Membership Award for outstanding design, an Associated Building Contractors’ Award of Merit, and two awards for design excellence from the Sunday School Board of the Southern Baptist Convention.