Building With Purpose Technology Systems For Today’s Church

The master plan is about defining how you will use the space. You have to have a clear understanding of how you want to reach people. Designing from the inside out provides a different perspective. This is the very first step in the process, prior to architectural drawings, building design, etc. By doing this you are much better equipped when discussions begin with design-build firms, architects and contractors.
Master Planning

The master plan is about defining how you will use the space. You have to have a clear understanding of how you want to reach people. Designing from the inside out provides a different perspective. This is the very first step in the process, prior to architectural drawings, building design, etc. By doing this you are much better equipped when discussions begin with design-build firms, architects and contractors.

Close your eyes and imagine sitting in your new space. What do you see?

• A traditional sanctuary with pews, stained glass, choir loft and a piano on the left and organ on the right
• A large platform with curtaining, a praise band and vocal team with theatrical lighting and fixed seating (more theater oriented)
• A more industrial look with black open ceilings round table seating and a large stage
• A multipurpose space with sporting capabilities, walking tracks etc.

Keep your eyes closed. What type of functions do you see?

• Traditional praise and worship
• Contemporary praise and worship
• A blending of both styles of worship
• Concerts
• Drama/Dance
• Holiday pageants
• Seminars/Presentations
• Dinners
• Community events

These are the first steps required to develop a master plan. The master plan defines how the church will function, the type of events it will accommodate, the style of worship and the overall feel of the church.

The building design needs to support the functionality goals of the space. It is important that everyone involved with the building project understand these goals. How can anyone properly design a sanctuary if they have little idea how the space will be utilized?

Rhetorical Questions

• Have you clearly defined your functionality goals for the new space?
• Have you also defined the interior look and feel for the new space?
• Are these areas complimentary or at odds?
• Have you met with a technology contractor?
• Have you done all this prior to contacting a building designer?
• Are the right people involved with the building committee?
• Are you thinking about future expansion?