Location
Ann Arbor, MI
Original Construction
1896
Completion Date
In-Progress

Faced with an aging congregation and with limited access to the basement restrooms and kitchen the Community of Christ was looking to improve the building from an accessibility standpoint and update the kitchen facilities. In the foyer a wheelchair lift was added and the stairway expanded. The historic wainscot was utilized to surround the new lift and stairway; allowing both to fade into the background and allowing the showcase of the rich woodwork. In the basement the cramped kitchen was moved, enlarged and rearranged to accommodate the congregation’s need to hold weekly potluck meals. In addition it was found after demolition that a large portion of the church was sitting on a dirt foundation. Significant underpinning was required to stabilize the condition and ensure the prevention of serious issues in the future. Finally the basement was updated with new finish materials and upgraded mechanical systems to provide a much more inviting gathering space.