Pastors are having mixed feelings when it comes to a construction project and the continued uncertain times brought about by COVID-19. Some Pastors are waiting to see how the pandemic construction pricing will play out while several are leading in faith taking advantage of this time to upgrade their campus. Our goal with this Blog is to outline some potential projects that you should consider, and reasons why now is the optimal time to plan and execute.
Before we describe the 4 potential projects, let us identify 2 reasons as too why now could be the best time to start:
The Church may or could gain Momentum
We have seen several Churches open back up and people are flowing through the doors, more than before. This could be a result of missing community with others and being together, seeing the service online, or seeing the world in turmoil. But, none the less, people are coming. This may be a great time to evaluate our campus and consider a project to help continue or spark additional growth.
Interest Rates are low
We are seeing interest rates extremely low making lending more favorable to borrowers. At this time, the interest rate is low compared to previous years meaning borrowing now could save a large sum of money in interest payments alone.
We completely understand the logic behind postponing a project for your Church. But there are certain timeless facility/campus trends that will be constant. Therefore, capitalizing on these improvements ensures that upgrades today will not affect the future of your Church planning efforts.
Stage Remodel
The stage helps set the tone for worship and is a tool that helps delivery of a message or create the atmosphere for worship. If your stage is outdated, limited in technology, has bad lightning, or just needs an upgrade, this may be a great time to make those adjustments. In fact, this improvement would even benefit the online services which many churches have continued even after returning.
Worship Remodel
This extends beyond the stage and into the seating of the sanctuary. With most worship services back in person, a good window of opportunity may have been missed with everyone out but it may be worth considering doing an update in the near future. Typical worship remodels include: carpet, lighting, seating, paint/cosmetics, and potentially sound.
Foyer Expansion or Update
Large foyers have become a major asset for congregations serving as a place for gathering, fellowship, and coffee before worship. However, some Churches may only have a small lobby from the front door to the worship entrance while others may only have hallways. Large foyers are a trend not going anywhere. Whether we need the space for gathering, passing out information, pedestrian circulation, or social distancing the more space the better. Fortunately, foyer expansions may be cost effective projects to consider. For instance, moving walls and reallocating space is relatively inexpensive but has major positive impacts.
Cosmetic Updates Throughout
Our Church facility is important, we may not need high end fixtures throughout, but we should have a campus that reflects care and intentionality. If your campus is outdated or needs a breath of new life, now is the perfect time to update flooring, paint, restrooms, ceiling tiles, or any other antiquated space on the campus.
It is important to take this time to reflect on improving your campus. Also, these recommendations do not necessarily have to be expensive. In fact, there are several cost-efficient measures a congregation can take to improve their campus. We would recommend having a professional come in with a fresh set of eyes and look at the campus from a different perspective.
In an attempt to serve Churches, we are waiving our fee for a site consultation (see highlights of a Site Consultation below). We know things are moving to some sense of normalcy but it could be beneficial to investigate improvement opportunities.
Site Consultation:
One Site Assessment by two Team Members
Complete campus walk through with Construction and Planning Professionals
Written Report
Typically, 5-7 pages with guided next steps
Follow-Up Meeting (Phone or Video Conference)
Discuss Report and address questions