Community

The historic church layout was based on two side aisles with no center aisle, because the original order of service had a central pulpit with a single clergy. To address sacraments such as communion and weddings, and to accommodate universal access, Bailey Edward designed a central aisle with ramps up onto the chancel. To address the aging population, the lighting and sound system was upgraded as well. The design created a new gathering space in the back of the nave, which allows the congregation to casually gather at the back of the church. It also gives a more open perception of the church, so that visitors can pass into the back of the church without disturbing services. 

This project was honored by the Association of Licensed Architects with a Gold Award and by the Central Illinois Chapter of the American Institute of Architects with a Preservation/Restoration award.

Chicago, Illinois

Bailey Edward renovated the basement, Pierce Hall, a multi-purpose room, to create three separate classrooms and one large assembly space to house 200 people. The location had not been remodeled in 30+ years and required new heating, ventilating, air conditioning, sprinkler systems and lighting. Each classroom is equipped with an individual audio-visual display connected to a building-wide network. The main assembly space was also designed to convert to a theatre for performances by groups from outside of the church.