Questions
Will there be any changes to the facade of the buildings?
The placement, and ultimate design, of the worship space is intended to create a pronounced presence on Manchaca Road that will both update and beautify the church facade and clearly identify the church complex as a place of worship.
How did you choose the architect?
The Remolding committee interviewed three well-respected church architectural firms in Austin and selected Heimsath Architects due to their expertise in working with churches and their reliance upon a Community
Forum to solicit input concerning the church facilities.
Will we build out in phases or one grand opening?
We will build in three phases. The first phase of the master plan will include a new auditorium and support spaces, in the area currently occupied by the eastern half of the adult classroom wing, and an atrium that will unify all spaces by a single central core, and new restrooms in the atrium. Work in Phase II will focus on converting the existing worship space into a fellowship hall with new restrooms, kitchen, and meeting space . Phase III will involve the renovation of the Memorial and CY buildings and completion of the atrium vertical circulation system.
What will we do with our former facilities?
All existing facilities will be transformed and used in new ways. When all phases are completed, the improvements will consist of a single large complex unified by a double height atrium space, a new auditorium, a fellowship hall and kitchen, modern office space and consolidated education spaces where particular age groups will be located. The new auditorium will have a pronounced, and specifically "church like" appearance on Manchaca. The master plan calls for construction of approximately 27,000 square feet of new additions or buildings and approximately 26,000 square feet of renovations.
How big of a sanctuary would we build?
The existing sanctuary is 6,000 square feet, seating about 400. The recommendations for the new sanctuary would be 8,200 square feet, with a seating of about 600.
Do we have an estimate on the cost to renovate?
Costs estimates are based upon preliminary planning information and approximated unit costs for each of the spaces. Refinements in cost will be necessary as the design scope changes. Though very preliminary, the purpose of these estimates is to set realistic expectations for the eventual building program. In this manner the Church can set budget expectations for the implementation program. Note that estimates are based upon present construction cost data. Inflation or other factors will influence construction costs and should be included for future budgets. Phase I estimate is $4,732,200.00. Phase II estimate is $1,824,750.00. Phase III estimate is $3,536,600.00. (However this is if there is a total remodel of all the rooms, which has not yet been determined.) Add 10% for each year construction is delayed beyond one year after July 2009.
