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Think big, small, and long-term when designing ministry space.
Marian V. LiautaudBuilding the right space at the right time is the ultimate goal of every church building project. Once a church has tracked attendance information over time, (see the article, "Head Counts at Church" for tips on taking attendance), it can make an informed decision about the amount of space needed for ministry expansion. Armed with this hard data, you're ready to consider what kind of space to build.
David Evans, president of Mantel Teter Architects, offers three tips regarding how much space to build.
1. Think big. What is your vision? How much space will you need to support that vision? What ministries would you like to move into in the future? Having a clearly defined vision is imperative before adding ministry space.
According to Evans, worship facility space is usually estimated at 10 square feet per person; education space—approximately 40 square feet per person; fellowship foyers—connecting spaces outside of the sanctuary—may be one-third to one-half the size of worship space. And generally speaking, according to Evans, the rule of thumb for determining overall site size is 55 to 60 square feet per person. For example, the overall size of a church of 1,000 attendees should be 55,000-60,000 square feet.
2. Think small. Who is your end user? "Dollars are in the details," reminds Evans. "Churches need to ask themselves what they will need in that space to be a successful ministry and provide a satisfying experience." Evans suggests incorporating multi-use space as a way of leveraging space more effectively.
3. Think long-term. "As people come to your church," Evans says, "they're going to put pressure on your facilities. Churches need to ask, do we have a strategy in place that maximizes our growth potential?" Evans echoes Jeff Otero's counsel in "Head Counts at Church" to create a master plan.
"A master plan is essential," says Evans. "It's a dynamic plan that changes over time. It will help you foresee and phase in your growth plan."
What other factors for knowing the right kind of space to build would you add to this list?
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Thank you for all of your advice. I have a question. My church has been inside of my home for a long time. we have purchased 4.5 acers of land to build on. we are small with about 25 members and 10 adult tithers. I know that we are not growing because of our location. What size, and type of building would you advise us to build. and are their any available grants that you know of that we might be able to appy for construction?
Posted by: Pastor Georgia Green on May 15, 2010
Greetings loved ones. Im in need of your expertise. I am currently in the process of ascertaining the suitable space for a church facility that would accomodate 200 to 300 people.
Im also seeking an estimated "ball park" figure for a building this size that would include: a sanctuary; kitchen; basement; nursery; foyer; restrooms; and (5) classrooms. I ask, what would be your estimated size and can you provide me with an estimated cost or refer me to someone who could? Your cooperation is well appreciated. God bless.
Posted by: Jermaine White on August 2, 2010