The buildings at St. Alban’s evolved as three separate buildings serving diverse needs, but without a master plan in mind. Facilities included a turn-of-the century residence that serves as the rectory (the original estate that donated the land), a 1954 church building and a 1970s parish hall. The new plan combines the parish hall and the church in a long-term vision set by the parish to respond to the changing needs of their community.
The solution creates a unified building that is fully integrated and accessible by removing the 1970s parish hall from the site and creating an addition to the mid-century era church for new community uses. This allows parishioners to remain in one building to encourage interaction and provides a primary arrival and entrance to St. Alban’s. A secondary entrance also allows for after-hours use of lower level classrooms. The siting creates space for outdoor play areas for children and contemplative gardens.
I wanted to express our appreciation for the outstanding job that your firm did in the design and implementation of the new building. I was particularly pleased and impressed with the way that you made a significant reduction in the space while retaining the character of the original design.
The impact of the new structure on the parish is truly exciting. Our membership and attendance have risen significantly over the past year due in large part to the attractiveness and enhanced functionality of the new parish hall. Our neighbors are delighted.
–Donald Bonoff, Chairman, Building Committee, St. Alban’s Episcopal Church, Cape Elizabeth, Maine
The new parish hall had to be consistent with the existing structure and sympathetic to the surrounding architecture. The addition also contains a fully-equipped kitchen, administrative offices, larger classrooms and more meeting space. Parking, traffic flow, outdoor spaces, site lighting, storm water runoff, and amenities were much improved. The property was developed in such a manner as to allow for future subdivision should the Owner wish to divest of the residence.
Barba + Wheelock returned about six years after the completion of the parish hall to design and implement a youth room on the previously unfinished third floor, completing the master plan for the church.
