When the reconstruction of First Presbyterian Church of Burbank begins this month, parishioners will see the beginning of new life for their church originally built in 1956. Designed by San Diego-based domusstudio architecture, the new project will result in a complete recycle of the existing building located on the corner of East Olive Avenue and North 5th Street in downtown Burbank.
A new courtyard entry pulled deeper into a new courtyard will replace the existing entry that allowed members to exit almost directly onto the city sidewalk.
“By reorienting the building to the courtyard and putting a new chapel with glass where the old entry stood, we have created an inviting area where people can socialize before and after services which is a critical part of a healthy church campus,” said David Keitel, Senior Associate with domusstudio architecture.
Pastor Ross Purdy, who has led the congregation since 2001, said, “This new setting is going to bring us new energy. Before, people would leave right after services. Now they’ll want to stay and enjoy this inspiring, indoor-outdoor environment.”
A large, dark rectangular space with stained glass windows, the existing sanctuary welcomes little natural light. The new design includes skylights and deep recessed windows that will allow natural light to bounce off surfaces, including the stained glass windows, creating a bright environment and blending traditional and contemporary features. The new lighting design will also help the church avoid the pitfalls of direct natural lighting, such as glare and heat.
“In the chapel, we incorporated a large opaque skylight, backlit with LED lighting that will change colors with the liturgical seasons and will be visible to the community,” Keitel said.
Also part of the new sanctuary, an expanded balcony and curved pews wrap around a new round Chancel, which was pushed forward in the space to create a better connection between the worship team and attendants.
The architects are maximizing the property by exposing the basement, and creating a lower patio with roll-up sectional door openings from a new youth room. The exterior exposure and openings will create better circulation for what was an “old, tired basement,” added Keitel.
To complete the new look, domusstudio built upon two existing tower bases at the front of the church, adding height using a skeleton frame and perforated copper panels. A third similar elevator tower will be added in the rear of the courtyard making the entire campus accessible to all users.
The project will be completed in 10 months, and is being constructed by HMH Constructors Inc. of Camarillo, CA.
Domusstudio Architecture (established in 1986 as Dominy + Associates Architects) is an award-winning firm practicing creative, sustaining, enriching design including religious, educational, civic (fire stations/libraries), senior housing and custom residential projects. For more information visit www.domusstudio.com or call (888) 939-9393.
