St. John Lutheran Church had outgrown their traditional chapel and modest support spaces. They purchased the only property available across a residential street and commissioned Heimsath Architects to develop a solution for both near-term needs and long-term growth.
The master plan placed most new construction and an expanded parking area on the new property. In order to connect with the older buildings, the new structures were placed along the street edge, nearest the old property. The new design was carefully scaled to relate to the existing. Web-work or peanut brittle stone coursing matched the stone on the older chapel.
The new construction includes a new sanctuary, fellowship hall with kitchen, meeting rooms and administration wing. A light-filled foyer connects all the major functions. Glass openings at both ends join the new parking area to the rest of the complex.
To help make the street crossing safer, the Church gained approval to mark a wide crossing area. During special events, they may temporarily close the street so large groups can move between the old chapel and the new building.
