Historic Church Renovation

The existing structure was built in two phases between 1917 and 1930 and used as a place of worship until 2017. The original exterior was covered in vinyl siding at some point and was severely damaged by hail in 2011. The existing rector’s house is also a part of the property and scope of renovations.

The exterior vinyl siding, wood siding and sheathing was completely removed. New batt insulation was provided in the walls and new sheathing and cementitious board installed. This alone has reduced the utility bills by 50%. A new accessible sidewalk was installed between the two structures to provide entry into the lower level. Existing windows were removed and new storefront added, along with a new exterior patio for the coffee shop.

“Coffee is community.” That statement fueled the design to turn a partially underground basement into a vibrant gathering place, serving as a catalyst for development in an up and coming neighborhood. The existing kitchen and restrooms were removed, and the old plaster on the walls was removed to exposed the almost century old brick. The existing marble floor, installed piece by piece from scraps from a nearby marble factory by the church parishioners was refinished to its original glory. A new barista area and kitchen was installed, renovated bathrooms provided, new LED lighting was installed and natural light was let in through new storefront.

The interior upper level was completely renovated, removing deteriorated carpet, wood wainscoting and paneling. The chancel was removed, the hardwood floor refinished and then new walls were added. An existing painting was preserved behind drywall above the chancel. This will allow the space to return to a place of worship, keeping the painting and floors intact when removing the walls. The existing lay-in ceilings were removed in the back of house spaces and new floor and wall finishes installed.

The renovation of this historic building kept the spirit of the original structure while adding modern touches, reused existing MPE systems, new LED lighting was installed. The renovation of this historic structure added new life to a building the neighbors love and created a third place for the surrounding community to enjoy.

Framework for Design Excellence

Design for Integration/Design for Equitable Communities
This renovation reconnects an historic building with the surrounding neighborhood fabric, creating new jobs and a third place for the community, creating a walkable, engaging coffee shop that connects people from all walks of life.

Design for Ecosystems/Water
This site collects water drainage on site in filtered containment and prevents any contamination of the surrounds systems.

Design for Economy
This project provides new jobs and creates a place for human connections an thoughtful intellectual discussions though minimal changes to the existing interiors.

Design for Energy
New exterior insulation, new LED lights, new big ceiling fan all help to reduce energy usage.

Design for Well Being
The project is located along a very walkable street and near an accessible bike greenway. The indoor/outdoor seating connects place with nature.

Design for Resources
Local building products were specified when possible and local contractor was used. The coffee shop sells local craftsman wares.

Design for Change
The interior renovations were done to allow future change in occupancy without damaging the existing structure.

Design for Discovery
Customers are delighted when they discover that the proceeds from the current coffee shop go directly to SEED International, a program that empowers and equips individuals and communities in Haiti by partnering with them in education, entrepreneurship, and development projects.