Trinity Lutheran Church

Shawnee, Kansas

Modern church facility adapted from renovated automobile barn

The renovation of a former automobile barn transformed the building into a sacred space that accommodates a growing, vibrant congregation. Working within the constraints of the existing structure, the design solution provides multifunctional spaces to accommodate worship, preschool, child and youth ministries and adult education. A cloth scrim allows the assembly level to be divided into worship and narthex or retracted to accommodate larger events. Each level has an at-grade entry which allows the preschool functions on the lower level direct access to the outdoor play area and drop-off/pick-up area. Salvaged timbers from the building were used as structure for a new entry stair tower, floor infill, stair treads and a large exterior cross that provides a visible reminder of the building’s new identity.