The owner’s program called for a 600-seat worship center,

coffee bar, student living space, study space, recreation

space, as well as office space and parking for 8-10

staff. Challenged by limited space and a sloped site, six

variances were obtained to fulfill the goals of the project.

The answer to the sloped site was accomplished through

below-ground parking and allowed us to  utilize the limited

ground level for the building and an outdoor amphitheater

rather than a parking lot. The existing building is merely

a utilitarian brick box with high windows. In contrast the

new building with its transparent glass façade will enable

people outside to look in and be drawn in by the activity.

It was important to maintain the existing chapel as a

focal point, to accomplish that the two-story living space

was designed in the shape of a wedge, tapered so that

the view of the chapel will not be obstructed as people

approach down Maple Street from the west.