New Youth Building First United Methodist Church

This 40,000 square foot building was designed to accommodate and enhance the children’s ministry at First United Methodist Church.  The three-story addition compliments the existing church character and is located just south of Wesley Hall.

The masonry finish mimics the character of the existing church facilities as the introduction of metal composite panel and larger expanses of glass lend itself to a more open and contemporary feel. It is this contemporary and open feel that shows a progression of the church from the more formal to the more light hearted and fun. Though it is formal in how it addresses the street, it begins to open up on the interior to playful shapes and colors.

As you enter the building, you are greeted by playful animals and bible scriptures that line the walls. The main lobby includes a playful tree trunk with a sitting area and abstract floating leaves that flow from the trunk down the linear hallways serving to reduce sound in the space and provide playful and fun movement of elements and shapes in the space. Colorful tile floors and abstract shapes create excitement.

The building includes large open classroom and activity areas, small children’s nurseries, check-in and support workroom, large storage areas, and dynamic lobby space all on the first floor. The second floor serves the older youth with lounge and café style space surrounded by breakout small group areas, as well as, a large youth space complete with sound room and other support spaces.

The third floor currently is a shelled space with general HVAC and life safety components only.