Previously, we wrote about how sometimes church leaders’ vision for ministry can be so large that it becomes difficult to communicate and even harder to accomplish. We presented an example of an urban church of 200 that wanted to grow its congregation to 1,000 with a church building to match. Read more about the church design they envisioned and why it was problematic here.
While we drew up a schematic plan to meet their big vision, they quickly realized it was too big of a plan. Instead, as a team focused on effective church building and thoughtful church design, we helped them explore three options that were achievable as a first step to their long-term vision. Here’s what we presented. Each option has its own advantages and disadvantages and will require a tough, but achievable, decision by those church leaders.
Option One: A Permanent Platform with Limited Growth
The first option creates a 300-seat sanctuary with a permanent platform. On the surface, this approach seems like a solid step forward. It introduces a more defined worship environment and aligns with the long-term master plan with room to grow.
However, there are challenges. The permanent platform requires significant space and adds cost early in the process. Also, the seating capacity only increases modestly, from their current size to about 300. That means the church would only gain limited additional capacity for the money it spends while space will still feel somewhat tight.
Option Two: Flexibility First with a Temporary Platform
The second option takes a different approach. Instead of building a permanent platform right away, this design uses a temporary platform positioned to the side. This simple adjustment creates a major benefit. It allows the same overall space to seat closer to 500 people.
This option reduces upfront costs and avoids locking the church into a layout that might not fit future needs. By delaying the permanent platform to a later phase, the church can now grow into its need for more space over time and complete the church building growth when it can better afford the cost.
Option Three: Bigger Building, Bigger Cost
The third option is more aggressive in reaching the long-term dream. It includes a permanent platform and seating for 500, resulting in a larger building overall.
While this plan eliminates some of the disadvantages of a smaller addition, and more closely matches the ultimate vision of having a large church, it comes with the highest cost of the three options.
Vision Is Not Just What You Say, It Is What People Can See
Whichever choice the church leaders make, these three church design options will be much easier to communicate. The congregation will be able to grasp how any of the plans are a first step in reaching the ultimate vision of ministry that church leaders have.
Which option would you choose if the decision was yours?
Learn More About Church Building and Design
We invite you to join any or all The McKnight Group’s free i3 webinars. These sessions are designed to help church leaders better understand church building and church design. A list of topics, dates and links to sign up are available on our website.