Church Master Plans
Over my career in Architecture, I have worked on well over 35 church-related design projects.
The first step in most church projects is developing a facility Master Plan. Even for repeat clients, I recommend for a church and design team to revisit the Master Plan to make sure the long-term goals still line up with the ministry needs of the congregation.
Why is a Master Plan so important?
- Approximately 50% of church building projects never get built.
- Many church facilities are designed and/or built by companies that do not understand ministry.
- Ministry and culture today is different than it was even 5 years ago.
Eight of my recent projects are churches that hired local, cheap Design-Build firms to build a building for them in the past. I emphasize cheap and build a building. Our first task on these projects is finding ways to fix problems created by Contractor-led Design-Builders. These companies provide cheap buildings and do not design spaces for long-term ministry success. National and regional Design-Build firms exist that understand the importance of Master Plans and Ministry Planning for Facilities, but most local companies do not. You get what you pay for, and will regret it sometime down the road.
I have developed a Master Planning process that builds on 25+ years of experience working with churches. This process includes ministry partners such as Capital Campaign Consultants, Contractors (or Design-Build Contractors), and ministry consulting. Because of our partnerships, we plan projects that fit ministry needs and project budgets … two key factors aimed at overcoming the reality that approximately 50% of all church building projects never get built.
Recently, my primary focus has been Alabama and Central Tennessee. However, recent changes have put me in a position to work a much broader reach. If your church is considering facility improvements, reach out. I’d be glad to open up a conversation. I would love the opportunity to add you to my experience of church projects!