Metropolitan Community Church

A Cultural Connection.

Location:

Client:

Project Size:

St. Louis, Missouri

Metropolitan Community Church of St. Louis

21,000 SF

The adaptive reuse of an existing 38-years old pre-cast concrete warehouse building required LNB to creatively think beyond convention to transform a big empty box into an attractive state-of-the-art contemporary place of worship, education and community service that culturally connected with a Christian congregation of 400 people. Exterior challenges included designing on a tight budget for a new main exterior entrance and adjacent spire. A prominent dramatic composition of stained glass, pitched roof, and a crucifix spire visually identifies the facility from afar. The remainder of the exterior was transformed by limited use of new materials in concentrated areas, a new curvilinear molding and a generous use of painting on the rest. To mitigate the boxy nature of the interior space, curving elements provide a softening contrast that gives a friendly human scale and sweeping visual interest. The symbolisms of the congregation were incorporated into the design of all major spaces. Flexibility, contemporary conceptual ideas, complete the reimagination for a high-tech audio-visual Sanctuary with theatrical lighting, chapel, fellowship hall and various support spaces such as a control booth and soundproof cry room.

“I was delighted with the process recommended by LNB to gather information from our Board of Directors, Church Staff, Ministry Team Leaders, and basically any congregant who wished to complete the questionnaire on more than 30 ministry areas. This opportunity for leaders and congregants to give input into the conceptual design was invaluable to our church’s support of this project. When we viewed the first draft of the floor plan for our new building, I was amazed at their ability to take scattered information and through the thorough programming create a design that reflected our needs. I was so excited about the concepts created. I have to say how much I appreciate your genuine desire to make this project work for us. It is refreshing to work with business professionals who truly listen and respond to the needs of the ‘customer’. It is a rare gift in today’s business society. ”

Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell, Metropolitan Community Church of Greater St. Louis (MCCGSL)