Dallas Theological Seminary – Chapel and Student Life Center

Dallas, Texas

A student-centered hub designed to elevate spiritual life and social connection

Project Brief

GFF has designed a new 500-seat Chapel and Student Life Center for Dallas Theological Seminary as part of a broader initiative to enhance the campus environment by integrating academic, spiritual, and social spaces. The Chapel, central to this project, features streams of natural light from a central cupola, and automated blackout shades for controlled environments during video streaming. This new building also includes a large student gathering area with a Café, offering a space for students and faculty to socialize and enjoy meals, contributing to a vibrant campus life. Additionally, the design incorporates dedicated workspaces for 20 faculty and staff members, ensuring that the building supports both administrative and academic needs. 

Outdoor amenities play a significant role in the design, with covered dining and lounge areas, communal workstations, and an outdoor fireplace, addressing the growing demand for high-quality outdoor living spaces on college campuses. These enhancements aim to provide an open lawn area and improve pedestrian connectivity and circulation, creating a more cohesive and pedestrian-friendly campus environment. 

The Chapel is equipped with state-of-the-art technology, which supports the seminary’s commitment to providing students with modern facilities that reflect the evolving needs of theological education and ministry. 

By creating a central hub for campus activities, the Chapel and Student Life Center support the institution’s mission to blend academic excellence with spiritual and community development, ultimately enhancing the overall student experience.