Simple steps to smart building for churches and religious organizations
When considering the construction of your church or religious organization, it is important to think seriously about all aspects of design and construction. A quality contractor will be tuned into the mission and ideologies of your facility, and will help you work to properly reflect them within your walls.
As you understand well, it is the people who truly make up a religious organization. Your members likely work to better their surrounding community on a daily basis, which is why one of the most important considerations in choosing the right contractor for a project is that contractor’s involvement in and ties to the surrounding community. Securing a contractor who lives in your community, understands the people there and who is genuinely interested in your project’s success can make an incredible difference.
The buildings that house religious organizations vary vastly in shape, size and features. They are made of all different sorts of materials. With so many options, it can be hard to know where to start when you begin to plan. After finding a contractor who truly has their finger on the pulse of your specific needs, it is important to keep a few factors in mind.
- AVOID DESIGN FADS – Just as clothing styles change over the years, so do elements of architecture and design. There are some amazing and incredible churches across the world, but don’t get hung up on fitting that mold. A church or religious organization should offer a more classic and timeless style, as the building should be able to be used for generations to come. Rather than following trends that come and go, look into designs that make sense for your facility’s long-term plan.
- FORESEE THE FUTURE – Plan architectural elements that make sense as your facility changes and grows. Consider the current needs of your members as well as those that may develop in the future. Is your town growing? Does your community focus surround helping to feed those in need? If so, consider building an on-site commercial kitchen. Not only does this help you to attain specific goals, it also makes your building more versatile. Not sure if this is right for your facility? Check out these kitchen tips from Church Executive.
- BLUEPRINT FOR GROWTH – Over time, your religious organization will likely (and hopefully) gain new members and experience growth. If you plan the construction of your facility with this growth in mind, you can create a building that is more easily expandable.
- FOCUS ON YOUR VISION – Clearly define the vision you have for your building, taking into consideration all needs and purposes your facility must meet and serve. Take a moment to get your vision in writing. This gives you the opportunity to make changes as you need, to share your vision with a professional and to keep your eyes on the bigger picture.
- BREAKDOWN YOUR BUDGET – As you plan your vision and you consider the future, don’t forget to plan a budget. Consider all aspects of building costs; not just brick and mortar but also furniture, appliances and fixtures. Work with your contractor to avoid creating unforeseen and unnecessary financial stress when building gets underway.
To a quality contractor, your project should never be considered “just another” job. At Galbraith, we enjoy playing a crucial role in our hometown and surrounding communities, and in planning and building places of worship that will serve our friends, families and fellow residents for years to come by making a lasting impression on the lives of many.
To begin planning—or just to ask a few questions—reach out today. We’d love to hear from you.
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Vice President/Owner,
Galbraith Pre-Design
As co-owner of Galbraith/Pre-Design, Inc., Mark Galbraith is responsible for the construction of commercial facilities in nine states. Continuing his family’s tradition of commercial and industrial construction in south central Pennsylvania and beyond, Mark’s experience includes site analysis and selection, pre-construction services, field engineering and project management.