The First Evangelical Free Church of Springfield had a unique design problem. Most growth issues within congregations stem from a lack of sanctuary space. However, having purchased a building from another congregation, and due to an emphasis on Christian education, First Free had ample worship space but was lacking in classrooms and security.

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The design concept for this project grew from the idea to clean up circulation and security by locating the main corridor directly behind the sanctuary and creating secure nooks in each of the corner points in the plan. A new back wall at the first and second floor of the balcony decreased the sanctuary seating to the desired number and reallocated space to the classroom and administrative functions. Six phases were identified within the building team group in order to maximize the use of the entire building while minimizing interruption to the operations of the church.

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(Project team member while employed at another firm.)