Church Architecture has witnessed a significant evolution in recent years. Whereas most 20th century church buildings borrowed their aesthetics from most 19th century church designs, that is not the case anymore with modern designs. The style of a typical 21st century church leans heavily on something entirely different. A rapidly changing culture has resulted in certain trends dominating the church architecture world today.
One can argue that church architecture is in fact becoming much simpler. The ornate, expensive designs of the past are quickly becoming obsolete. Church architects are now focused on building more for relatively less cost. Apart from tightened budgets, expansion of interior spaces is yet another trend that has been on the gradual rise.
In this article, we will be diving deep into 5 trends that are shaping the way church building projects will be undertaken in the coming years.
So without much further ado, let’s get started
5 Trends Affecting Church Architecture
1 – Expansion of Space
In the mid to late 90’s church lobbies were designed to function as tiny conveyors to help move visitors in and out of a church premise in an efficient manner. Lobbies were basically spaces conjured to quickly greet people and move them through the assembly line as briskly as possible. Fast forward to today and the evolution of the modern ministry model is quite apparent for all to see.
Churches have expanded their lobbies in order to facilitate enough space for visitors to connect and interact with each other. We are already witnessing lobbies being sprawled outside the confines of church walls. Churches are investing huge amounts to set up outdoor environments that make room for visitors to sit, relax, and converse with their fellow parishioners.
2 – A Consistent Simple Stage Set Design
Not long ago, the main stage environment of a church was an integral section of the premise that saw huge funds being poured into its design. Most churches blew their entire budgets into making their stages look stylish, fresh and visually compelling. However, with the introduction of new design methods and tactics, the set-design craze is finally being put to rest.
Churches are now resorting to designs for their main-stage that are more authentic. Gimmicky accessories are being shunned for a plainer look. Moreover, homespun backdrops are being replaced by projection gear and LED technology.
3 – Simple yet Sophisticated Design
Church buildings are moving away from rustic, dark aesthetics to imbue their edifice with a modern, brighter appeal. We will see darker colors being substituted with lighter colors, especially on floors. Wood flooring will retain its popularity. Many churches are also using messaging that is highly graphic and abstract in nature.
With regards to branding, we can expect to see simple, clear messaging with sophisticated emboldened text being combined with powerful imagery. One can also expect the kids section of a church to also have a sophisticated and immaculate feel to it. More focus will be on projection, lighting and brighter palettes with interactive elements.
4 – Modern Office Design
Church premises have already seen a change in leadership with the baby boomer generation being effectively replaced by the millenials. This will have a significant change on how church designs will look moving forward, especially with office workspaces. Unlike the boomer generation, millenials crave a collaborative environment with modern amenities.
A comfortable couch, a good Wi-Fi connection and enough space for a coffee machine will make this generation feel right at home. They have no desire for cubicles and corner offices. As such, expect to see more open office designs with collaborative spaces as we move into the next decade of the 21st century.
5 – More Preference to Natural Light
Just a decade ago, a dark, theater like environment for church auditoriums made sense to facilitate the use of video projectors. However, the introduction of LED screens has made natural light more feasible. Many church buildings now prefer to conduct long worship sessions with the God’s sun shining upon them in all its natural glory.
Church buildings can also install smart-glass technology in their premises to turn windows opaque and transparent with the flicker of a button. Natural light was something church buildings always preferred. Modern technology is now making this possible.
The Bottom Line
Modern trends suggest church architecture moving into a direction that favors spaciousness, austerity and design tactics that aren’t exorbitantly expensive. These trends are being further propelled with the millennial generation finally taking the reins of ministries from their older counterparts. Naturally, changes were expected. The introduction of advanced technology has only made the application of these changes more feasible.
If you want to keep up with the above mentioned trends to design your Church building, then contact us at Churchdesign to bring your vision for the Church to life. At Churchdesign, we harbor a team of qualified architects that work by your side every day until your desired church construction project is complete and up to your satisfaction.
Get in touch with us today to learn how we can help you build or design your church with the help of top-quality architects and materials.