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Battle Creek, Michigan

First United Methodist Church of Battle Creek

7,200 sf

$1.1 million

Description
A master facilities plan was developed by Architects Incorporated, P.C. from a congregational strategic plan. First United Methodist Church of Battle Creek is an Italianate structure built in 1908 and is one of fourteen buildings in the Battle Creek City Hall Historic District. It is also a nationally registered Historic Building. In developing the master plan, we took into consideration the site, the context and historic district area surrounding the building, barrier free and code requirements, interior lighting and finishing, and mechanical and electrical systems. Based upon the master plan, several projects have evolved.

In April of 1992, a four-stop ("hospital-sized") elevator was inserted into former storage and basement areas. A temporary glazed exterior enclosure was designed for secure entry off an alley and to have minimal impact on the historic building. It could then easily be removed when future additions were made.

A 7,100 S.F. church house addition and partial upgrading of current historic-registered church systems was then completed. Lighting, heating and ventilation of the existing facility was then accomplished. The church addition includes a two-story atrium entry into the existing narthex, offices and support areas, handicap accessible toilet rooms, a child care facility and a chapel. A covered auto drop-off creates a clear entry access and focal point from new parking areas.