Master Planning Services
It helps to have a plan in place as a campus grows over the years. A Master Plan is an invaluable resource to guide future developments. It is a long-range planning document that should be reviewed each time development is expected and adjusted as necessary to accommodate new ministry needs. The process also is helpful in identifying a first phase need in church.
The Master Plan Process Includes:
Phase 1 Programming
- Preparation of a Congregational Questionnaire
- Interviews with Staff and Ministry Directors
- Building and Site Element Program outlining use, sizes, and adjacencies of spaces
Phase 2 Site Analysis
- Review of the site analyzing relevant information such as traffic studies, walking distances, view opportunities, sun angles, and programmed land use
Phase 3 Master Planning
- Site Layout options
- Schematic character studies
- Optional Services: Contractor Estimates, Phasing Diagrams, In-depth Character Studies, High Resolution Graphics for fundraising campaigns
How to Build a Master Plan Committee
The Long Range Planning, Master Plan Committee will help shape the Master Plan. They will work closely with the architectural team reviewing the Building Program and Planning Options resulting in a presentation to the Congregation. The Committee is often made up of 6-8 members representing the church body with a common desire of growing or improving the campus. A Construction or Architectural background is not necessary, but knowledge of key ministry areas is paramount. Meetings are generally held every 2-3 weeks. The process generally takes 3-4 months to complete. Near the end of the process, the church may ask for an estimate or additional graphics to prepare for the fundraising campaign.
How to determine if a Master Plan is needed
Before construction begins, it is advised to consider the complete buildout of a piece of property.
- How many people does the church want to eventually serve in this location?
- What ministries does it want to provide for now and in the future?
- Will placing a first phase building or parking inhibit the growth of the rest of the campus?
- If any future planning beyond the current project is expected, a Master Plan is essential. It is a “living” document in that it serves to guide campus improvements, but can be modified as development continues. Undeveloped, or “Green Sites”, benefit greatly from this service, but we also offer reviews and revisions of existing Master Plans to developed campuses.
