First United Methodist Church of Richardson

GFF collaborated with First United Methodist Church of Richardson to address the church’s need for expanded and updated facilities. The church, having outgrown its existing location on Beltline Road, purchased a 22-acre site on Central Expressway to enhance its outreach and mission capabilities.  

The new campus, designed in collaboration with Frank Welch and Associates, includes 200,000 square feet of space. The first phase of 126,000 square feet includes a new 43,000-square-foot sanctuary that seats 1,300, combining traditional elements with modern design. The sanctuary’s wood interior evokes the classic wooden churches of early Texas, enhanced by natural light and stained-glass windows depicting the Creation story. An eighth window in the narthex symbolizes eternity, adding a spiritual touch to the welcoming space. 

The campus also includes a 47,000-square-foot building for nursery through adult education and a 36,000-square-foot multipurpose family life center. These spaces are designed to support a wide range of activities and ministries, reflecting the church’s commitment to community engagement and spiritual growth. 

Additionally, the Ministry Center serves as the organizational hub, linking various worship and administrative components under one roof. This includes a 500-seat Worship and Arts space for contemporary worship, performances, and lectures, as well as Celebration Hall, a multi-purpose community gathering and banquet space. The new Music Suite at the east end of the sanctuary provides rehearsal spaces for the choir and children’s music ministries, while the renovated Family Life Center offers new worship and lounge spaces for the youth program. 

This project underscores the firm’s dedication to creating functional and inspiring spaces that support the church’s mission and foster community interaction.