multi-faith Worship Center
Location
Evanston, IL
typology
Religious
Date
2011
status
Fall 2011 Judson University Undergraduate Studio
about
With the ever growing cost of operating and maintaining a building, the problem was presented to design a worship facility to be located in the greater Chicago metropolitan area that could be utilized by both the Christian and Jewish faiths. The facility would be designed in a series of two phases. Phase one would be centered around the worship experience while phase two would be centered around a community aspect.
site analysis
After a detailed study of the greater Chicago area, the conclusion was made to use the northern suburb of Evanston as the location for the proposed building. Evanston was chosen based on its high number of transit options including the CTA Purple Line, the Metra Union Pacific North Line, the CTA Bus System, and numerous bike and pedestrian routes. The site was also selected for its racial diversity which was perceived to be a possible advantage for a multi-faith facility.
connectivity - rail transit lines diverse population - racial census data ideal locations
design approach
The main entry for the building was designed to be very open and welcoming to the community. This was done through the use of a large glass entryway and took advantage of its location on a prominent street corner. Upon entering, one was met with a sequence of spaces located off of a large atrium space. These sequence of spaces were meant to signify the important aspects of the building that included a sanctuary for worship, an outdoor courtyard for self reflection, and a gymnasium for community growth. Altogether, the facility strives to help strengthen the community.
site plan
building section
building section
exterior views
interior views
