First Christian Church Entrance Addition and Prayer Garden

Ames, Iowa

This congregation dealt with the issues surrounding accessibility for over 25 years. They installed a chairlift in the 1980's and continued to discuss over the years how to address the remaining accessibility issues in this multi-level church. In concert with the congregation, we developed a fund raising campaign and a comprehensive master plan consisting of a new accessible side entrance with an elevator tower. A labyrinth prayer garden draws the congregation through the new entrance into the body of the church. Sacred symbolism is beautifully ingrained into the rich millwork of the interior creating a warm and inviting atmosphere for those who enter.