United Methodist Church
of the Resurrection
Leawood, Kansas
Seat Count: 3,000
Project Type: New Construction
Opening: September 2004
Architect: HOK
AD Scope: Auditorium Design, Acoustics,
Audio, Video and Lighting
Church of the Resurrection has experienced tremendous growth-an average attendance of just over 5,000 per weekend-which is exceeding the ability of the current 1,500-seat facility to meet its needs. Because of available budgets and the anticipated cost of site development, they have decided to construct a 3,200-seat interim facility that can be converted into a health and wellness center in the future when a larger worship center is constructed.
The gymnasium shape of the interim space has inherent acoustical problems for speech intelligibility. The permanent stadium seating, which arranges people in seating tiers at the rear of the room, allows members of the congregation to become human acoustic elements. This seating layout also serves the purpose of creating a sense of visual community.
Technology is key to the design because the campus requires a high level of interconnectivity and flexibility. Fiber and conduit are part of the cabling infrastructure which will support the ministry in the interim phase (i.e. connectivity to the existing sanctuary so it can be used as overflow) and in the future (i.e. conduit paths to support technologies that may not exist yet.)
Because of the high performance element of services, the design includes a left-right stereo imaging sound system. The system will be able to support concerts and other special events. In addition, a portion of the system has dual functionality by providing in-fill sound for the organ that is being relocated from the current sanctuary.
Image-magnification (IMAG) video is designed to use as much existing equipment as possible. The theatrical lighting design will support IMAG video production and drama.
A master planning exercise has been conducted with Saving Grace Productions, the video production ministry of the church, to determine how the interim facility will function for the next 5-7 years, and to plan an effective way to transition them into their new facility. Space planning for the production areas has also been done with an eye to the future.
