Interfaith Design

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The AIA Interfaith Design (ID) Knowledge Community encourages and supports excellence in the design of worship spaces and their accoutrements. Interfaith Design is an association of professionals whose primary interest is religious facilities in a broad array of traditions. We value an interfaith forum for the exchange of ideas relating to religion, art, and architecture. Join us!

Older Church Buildings - Other trends

  • 1.  Older Church Buildings - Other trends

    Posted 05-21-2016 09:25 AM

    In addition to the re-purposing of non-church buildings to religious venues we have also been involved in a number of projects where churches constructed in the early to mid twentieth century are being transformed to accommodate the resurgence of today's church. There are two important considerations when doing this. First is respecting the grand architecture of these buildings. The materials, craftsmanship and detailing found in these buildings are irreplaceable. A sensitive and balanced approach to blend the new with old is a must. This is true when it comes to technology especially in the sanctuary and when implementing the requirements of today's building codes.  The second consideration is to literally break-down barriers. Churches of old were designed with many rooms and corridors serving them. Those using these buildings find the 'maze-like' layout not conducive to fellowship and connection with others. Creating the large open space inside the building entrance or entrances is a key tool to say welcome to those first-time attenders as well as the long-timers.

    Church leadership today is more accepting of the idea that their facility can and should be a tool to support and advance their mission. As was well stated in Tom Greenwood's comments the millennials are different than their Gen-X predecessors. They embrace the religious buildings and religious icons that were not to be found in the mega-church era.  This along with deep connection that congregations have with their church buildings are bringing new life back into communities.  New life not only for the church but new life to the community at large by filling the voids and bridging the gaps that have grown over the years. 

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    John Tagle AIA
    John Tagle Associates, Inc.
    Troy MI
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