Bethel Lutheran Church Remodel
This project was born out of desire to improve Bethel’s public space, emphasize community connection and create a welcoming experience for all. We needed to retain all existing functions as well as accommodate new program items, including a central reception desk, relocation of the nursery to the first floor, expanded restrooms, and space for a coffee bar.
The fellowship space accepts traffic from the sanctuary gracefully, then naturally folds into the community room. Our team achieved this by eliminating a dividing wall that previously blocked sight lines to the perimeter windows. Introducing natural light into the communal spaces creates a welcoming, uplifting atmosphere. To foster connection between spaces, we specified four folding glass wall systems. This element layers dynamic space while empowering users to choose the best environment for their needs.
A passage in a Bethel pamphlet expressed the power of symbolism to bind people together in experience and feeling. These words vividly illustrate history, community, and faith woven together into a meaningful tapestry. Our team translated this imagery into physical form, achieving a sculptural pattern language that occurs throughout the design, connecting space and telling a story of faith-based community. The majority of the remodel was completed in 2017, marking the 500th anniversary of Martin Luther publishing the 95 Theses. This is commemorated in the 22-foot-tall sculpture located in the fellowship space and stands as a reminder of the interconnectedness we all share.
This project won the 2019 Wisconsin IIDA Award of Excellence in the Educational/Institutional/Liturgical category.
The fellowship space accepts traffic from the sanctuary gracefully, then naturally folds into the community room. Our team achieved this by eliminating a dividing wall that previously blocked sight lines to the perimeter windows. Introducing natural light into the communal spaces creates a welcoming, uplifting atmosphere. To foster connection between spaces, we specified four folding glass wall systems. This element layers dynamic space while empowering users to choose the best environment for their needs.
A passage in a Bethel pamphlet expressed the power of symbolism to bind people together in experience and feeling. These words vividly illustrate history, community, and faith woven together into a meaningful tapestry. Our team translated this imagery into physical form, achieving a sculptural pattern language that occurs throughout the design, connecting space and telling a story of faith-based community. The majority of the remodel was completed in 2017, marking the 500th anniversary of Martin Luther publishing the 95 Theses. This is commemorated in the 22-foot-tall sculpture located in the fellowship space and stands as a reminder of the interconnectedness we all share.
This project won the 2019 Wisconsin IIDA Award of Excellence in the Educational/Institutional/Liturgical category.