Unveiling Visions: Architectural Insights from ARC Conference Encounters

Every year, pastors and ministry partners across the country unite at the Association of Related Churches (ARC) Conference to develop new partnerships, strengthen existing relationships and learn about resources aimed at helping churches.

This year’s event was again held in our hometown of Birmingham, AL, at Church of the Highlands’ Grants Mill Campus, our first ARC church project, completed in 2007.

For us at LIVE Design Group, ARC Conference is a chance to catch up with old friends and hear updates on their projects. The life cycle of any building project can vary, with victories and challenges along the way. Hearing ways ministries navigate through these seasons is inspiring. These stories and experiences help us better serve not only them, but the new partnerships and connections made during the 2 days of the conference.

This year, we were blessed to connect with over 20 ministries who shared their incredible stories of growth, including:

·       Church planters from Trinidad & Tobago, looking to plant in the US

·       Adaptive reuse projects ranging from a former residential property to former commercial financial center

·       Renovations to include new meeting spaces, new children’s spaces, addition of a portable baptism, incorporation of movable walls

·       Desired seat counts from 100/125 seats to 1800 seats.

·       A ministry partner responsible for the “design culture” of their church

We learned of multi-phased master planning visions…

·       30-acre master plan to include chapel and recovery ministry

·       50-acre master plan to consider long term growth by including two worship facilities, 800 seat to start, and 1800 seats for the future

We met with churches at different season in the building process…

·       A ministry just starting to meet with realtors to explore potential properties for renovation

·       A church looking for a greenfield space because they “want the chance to dream”

·       A ministry partner with a 12,000 SF warehouse, looking for vision and inspiration

Working closely with over 160 ministries, we are committed to serving those who serve others. The evolving needs of the church have become apparent, bringing opportunities to design and develop enhanced spaces that better cater to the evolving requirements of our ministry partners.

We are passionate about creating meaningful places to express your vision, molded around your mission. We are here to help make sure your building enhances the user experience and doesn’t get in the way.

See you next year in Dallas!