Construction of the new sanctuary at The Village Community Presbyterian Church in Rancho Santa Fe is on pace for spring completion, according to church officials, who also announced the project’s scope has been expanded to include a remodel of the upper Christian education building beginning in April.

“There is great anticipation throughout the congregation as our new Sanctuary takes shape as a cornerstone for God’s work,” said the Rev. Dr. Jack Baca, Senior Pastor. “There is new excitement as well about our decision to go forward now with the remodel the upper Christian education building.”

Designed by leading church architects Domusstudio Architecture and with construction services by ROEL Construction Company, the remodeling project for the 3,871-square-foot upper education building is expected to begin in April, following completion of the Sanctuary.

According to Don MacNeil, Chairman of The Village Church Building Committee, the ability of Domusstudio Architecture and ROEL Construction to keep the Sanctuary and administration building project on time and on budget has contributed to the decision to move forward with the upper education building remodel now, as opposed to in the future.

“The added expense of the remodel is a fraction of the cost of the Sanctuary and site improvements, especially considering the increased value of today’s construction dollars,” said MacNeil. “Going forward immediately after the Sanctuary is completed represents a very cost effective solution in satisfying our Christian education needs.”

The upper Christian education building remodel will include an enhanced nursery, six separate classrooms, new doors and windows, new restrooms, a fire sprinkler system and new stucco to match the Sanctuary. New fire resistant roofs for both the upper education building as well as the lower education building, which houses the Village Nursery School, are planned.  Lastly, a new playground for children ages 5 to 12 is scheduled to be constructed over the summer.

“The importance of children within the Rancho Santa Fe Village Church has been an ongoing theme throughout our entire design process,” said Domusstudio Architecture’s Associate David Keitel. “The remodel of the existing building will meet the church’s pressing need for education space as it will house new nursery and toddler rooms along with Sunday school meeting rooms for children of all ages.”

Rancho Santa Fe Village Church began its current construction project in September 2008 when demolition crews arrived. In September 2009, the congregation celebrated the building reaching its highest point of construction. An unveiling event revealed the new Sanctuary’s 5-foot 6-inch cross, which sits atop a 42-foot dome adjacent to a 45-foot tile-roofed tower. The structure is the tallest architectural point in Rancho Santa Fe.

Construction continues on the two-story, 25,420-square-foot main sanctuary and administration building, with hand-made Spanish tile roofing installed and construction is nearing completion on the campus courtyard.

“It’s exciting to see the courtyard taking shape,” said Domusstudio’s Keitel. “The courtyard is the heart of the church campus, where the paths of all members and visitors intersect. The exterior spaces of church campuses are as important for Christian fellowship as the church building itself.”

The new sanctuary will have seating for 592 and parking will be increased from 204 to 265 spaces. Improved visibility and audibility from all areas of the sanctuary are part of the church’s interior design, also by Domusstudio Architecture.

The sanctuary’s Lillian Rice design blends nicely with the character of the Rancho Santa Fe Village, according to Keitel, adding that the Spanish Revival architecture style is among the most popular in the community.

The Village Church designs incorporate energy efficient elements, including lighting, heating, ventilation and air conditioning, which are expected to ultimately decrease the congregation’s energy bills even through the facility is larger.

Also adding to the “greening” of the new sanctuary is landscape design by Deneen Powell Atelier, Inc. The plan maximizes use of locally adapted Mediterranean plants and drought-tolerant ground cover that will minimize water usage.

A longtime pillar in the Rancho Santa Fe area, the Village Community Presbyterian Church was founded in 1956 and currently has more than 1,200 members in its congregation.  Recognized for its adult and youth ministries and music programs, the church also has a state licensed preschool program for children ages 2 to 5 years.

Domusstudio Architecture is a 23-year-old award-winning architectural design firm specializing in religious facilities, fire stations, educational buildings, senior housing and custom residential projects.

Founded in 1986 as Dominy + Associates, the firm strives to enhance the lives of people through architecture, interiors, planning and service.  For more information about its projects and services, call 619-692-9393 or visit www.domusstudio.com.