Our last post covered the importance of having a catalyst, the motivation that pushes a church toward considering a church building project, followed by a needs assessment to determine where the church falls short in its ability to carry out its mission. The latter step is part of a larger discovery phase that will create a strong church design. So, what is included in this discovery phase? Let’s walk through the key elements.
Documentation: Knowing What You Have
At the same time church leaders begin a needs assessment, they should begin to gather documentation. This may include property surveys, existing plans, blueprints, and reports on the current church building, or the property one will be built on.
For existing churches, this is also the time to identify issues such as water intrusion, failing HVAC systems, roof problems, or other deferred maintenance. These realities shape what is possible and what must be addressed. Good documentation gives your design team a clear starting point and helps avoid surprises later. Also, if your church plans to engage an architect or design professional (and it should), they will need to understand your current conditions.
Zoning: Understanding What’s Allowed
Zoning requirements need to be reviewed. Churches are typically permitted in many areas, but usually as a conditional use. That means approval is likely required from a zoning board, and that specific restrictions may apply.
Zoning regulations may limit building height, dictate parking requirements, define setbacks from property lines, and restrict how much of your land can be built on (lot coverage). Each of these factors influences how your site can be developed. Addressing zoning during the discovery phase ensures that your church design aligns with local regulations from the start.
Building Code Review: Designing to Meet the Rules
Alongside zoning, a building code review is essential. Most building codes in the U.S. are based on standards from the International Code Council, with states and local jurisdictions possibly making adjustments.
Understanding how these codes apply to churches, especially assembly spaces, is part of good church design. Codes affect everything from occupancy limits to structural systems and life safety requirements. A knowledgeable design professional will help interpret these rules, incorporating them into the design early, rather than reacting to them later.
Construction Type: Materials and Use Matter
Construction type refers to how a building is erected: i.e., wood versus steel, combustible versus non-combustible materials, and whether fire protection systems like sprinklers are included. These choices impact allowable building size, cost, and long-term performance.
Churches are typically classified under assembly use, though education or office spaces may fall into other categories. The combination of construction type and use group determines area limits and safety requirements. These decisions will directly influence what you can build and how large your facility can be.
ADA and Accessibility: Designing for Everyone
Accessibility is another key component of the discovery phase. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), along with local building codes, govern accessibility and safe egress. While some states have unique exemptions, most churches must plan carefully for accessible routes, restrooms, seating, and emergency exits. These requirements are not just regulatory; they reflect a ministry mindset of welcoming everyone.
Utilities: Infrastructure that Impacts Budget
Utility availability should also be reviewed early. Electrical service (single-phase versus three-phase), natural gas, water, sewer, or septic systems all influence design and cost. For example, limited electrical capacity can require multiple smaller HVAC units instead of fewer large ones, affecting efficiency and budget.
Schematics: Turning Information into Clarity
Once all these “discovery” items and needs are understood, schematic plans can be developed. These are not construction drawings, they’re communication tools. We often call them the “pretty pictures.”
Schematics show how spaces relate to one another, how the site is used, and how restrictions shape the design. They also reveal the experience of the design professional involved. Someone familiar with church building understands how ministry, codes, and functionality intersect. Schematics help church leaders, congregations, and financing institutions visualize the future before major commitments are made.
What Comes Next
We’ve reached the point where the conversation turns to money. It’s now time to develop a realistic budget and then identify funding strategies. We’ll tackle these important topics in our next article. In the meantime, we invite you to join us for upcoming free i3 webinars. The list of topics for 2026 is now available on our website, so be sure to sign up soon!