Hello,
Washington Post reporter is working on a story about former churches that have been converted into buildings that serve other purposes. I realize IFRAA doesn’t focus on this topic, but I’m casting a wide net to find anyone that could provide some expert insight into the issue (not really sure where to start). Her email below has more info on the story. Please feel free to forward this message onto anyone would could speak to the topic...she started out primarily interested in Washington DC but is interested in hearing about any such situations.
Best wishes,
Matt Tinder
Media Relations
The American Institute of Architects
From: Amanda Abrams [mailto:manda.abrams@gmail.com]
Sent: Friday, May 13, 2016 3:09 PM
To: Tinder, Matt
Subject: Article on adaptive reuse of churches for Washington Post
I'm a freelance journalist and am writing a story for the Washington Post real estate section about the adaptive reuse of churches in DC, which has been steeply on the rise in the past few years. I'm looking at the pros, cons, and challenges of redeveloping former churches.
I have a couple of questions for you. First, I'm trying to get some numbers on how many churches are being redeveloped per year in DC--or nationally, if DC-specific data isn't available. Does AIA keep those kinds of figures?
Second, I'm looking to speak with architects who specialize in redeveloping church spaces so that they can be used in other ways. I have a few contacts myself, but am wondering if you have ideas of who I might talk with--either DC-area architects who've worked on churches, national-level architects who are experts in that area, or DC-area folks who might help me get perspective on church reuse in some other way.
Please let me know your thoughts. Perhaps we could talk on the phone sometime next week?
Thank you,
Amanda Abrams
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Matthew Tinder
Sr. Manager, Media Relations
The American Institute of Architects
Washington DC
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