The Great Outdoors: Building Bridges for Community

But what if we challenged this norm? What if we approached every building design as if it were a campus, extending beyond the boundaries of a building?

Imagine a design that engages the entire site, maximizing exposure and using nature as its building blocks. Instead of a large, enclosed, conditioned lobby, picture a lobby space that flows seamlessly into an outdoor plaza, fostering natural connections.

Now imagine if this approach not only cost less to build, but also increased the potential for community engagement, showcased the heart of the community, and enabled all passersby to see the true essence of God’s heart…the people.

When designing Long Hollow Church in Hendersonville, TN, our team was tasked with bringing this vision to life. The church longed to see its site become a hub of activity beyond Sunday, and astutely viewed their surroundings as an opportunity to serve their community.

Working closely with church leaders, the design team combined a new lobby experience with a seamless wayfinding system that directed the flow of people through a reimagined outdoor space.

Branded as Legacy Park, this exterior space quickly became the community hub the church was looking for, providing a place for people to gather and connect. By integrating amenities such as a playground, basketball court, walking trail, and more, Legacy Park has become a place for people from every generation to enjoy.

Where there was once an empty field, hundreds of people gather throughout the week to find connection and enjoy creation. The saying is true: “If you build it, they will come.” By maximizing the potential of their outdoor space, Long Hollow Church unlocked opportunities to serve their community in ways they never thought possible.

When you shift your focus from the building to the entire property, you discover untapped potential. By embracing the outdoor experience, you’re providing another stepping stone for someone to build their faith. Many who have turned away from the church are hesitant to return, but an inviting outdoor space can break down barriers and help people find their way back.

Ready to move beyond the conventional build? Start by asking yourself…are we using our entire campus to build a bridge to our community? What could it look like in the future? How do we make the vision a reality?

For answers to these questions and more insights into how to unlock the full potential of your property, we are here for you.