Client: Saint Elmo United Methodist Church
Area: 21,000 sf
Completed: 2012

Services
Master Planning, Programming, Zoning, Design, and Contract Documents (Services performed at CDH Partners by Thomas Smith, and Michael Boland, 2009-2012)

On August 23, 2009, an electrical fire destroyed the majority of the church facility which included the worship space, classrooms, offices, and fellowship hall. Instead of demolishing the damaged buildings, the design salvaged the main entrance façade and the two side walls of the church. A new lobby space was added adjacent to the nave of the church allowing for improved circulation.

Brief
• Salvage and restore the main entrance facade and the two side nave walls, including repairing the stained glass windows
• Completely redesign the surrounding area to include more energy efficient and usable square footage
• Design a space to host outreach activities, community events, wellness classes, and youth basketball

Results
• 300 seat sanctuary that was designed to resemble the original worship space
• Liturgical furnishings that match the original furniture
• Increased circulation area and expanded lobby for gathering and events
• 12 classrooms, offices, choir room, cafe, kitchen and multi-purpose fellowship hall and gym

Results
• WFX 2012 Solomon Award winner (1-800 seats)