New Lenox, Illinois

This church was landlocked on its previous site and unable to expand to accommodate its growing congregation. Presented with the opportunity to sell to commercial developer, the church was able to invest in a larger site and a new facility.

Located in a rapidly growing community, Lincolnway Christian Church needed to build a larger facility to accommodate all of their growing ministries and needed a larger site to allow future expansions. Aspen Group architects created a phased master plan so the church can grow with the surrounding community. The church chose to pursue a more contemporary civic style over a traditional style. The abstract gable forms and wall angles (like that of opening doors) of the entry symbolize openness and welcome.

The initial phase on the new site was a 16,700 square foot 450-seat multipurpose worship center with baptistry, large fellowship gathering space, classrooms, administrative offices, warming kitchen and a prayer room. The plan is arranged so that the worship space can be easily doubled in future phases. Other future spaces will include additional education space, youth ministry space, recreation (indoor and outdoor) and fellowship areas.

A notable architectural feature is a dramatic entry tower constructed of large masonry block that emanates a sense of permanence and stability. The tower is topped with a steel cross and is lighted at night serving as a landmark, a simple steeple if you will. Inside the tower is a prayer room. The small square windows on the façade create a rhythm and direct the eye to the cross.