St. Andrew Methodist Church

St. Andrew Methodist Church partnered with GFF to develop a master plan for their next 30 years of growth on their scenic 21-acre property in Plano, Texas. The top priority was to provide a larger space for their rapidly growing contemporary worship service, launched in 2012. GFF collaborated with theater consultant and technology design firm Idibri to reimagine the existing 20,500-square-foot Sanctuary to accommodate both traditional and contemporary worship styles seamlessly.

The architectural redesign included removing porcelain tile flooring in favor of warmer wood, extending the platform for a more intimate feel, and expanding the AVL control booth. The side projection screens were replaced with LED displays. Contemporary worship equipment was integrated as discreetly as possible, pushing the limits of available technology. The most innovative feature was a 22’ x 40’ LED center screen, inspired by touring concerts, which can be assembled by volunteers in less than 30 minutes between services.

Acoustical challenges were addressed by installing 66 retractable, electronically operated acoustic banners. These banners are hidden in the attic and lower balcony ceilings, making the space acoustically flexible for different worship styles. Lighting fixtures were retrofitted to color-changing LEDs, providing a wide range of scene possibilities. Speakers and sub-woofers were recessed into the expanded platform, concealed by millwork, while new line array speakers were suspended delicately from the ceiling. Projectors hidden above the ceiling allowed image projection on the balcony fronts, enhancing the worship experience without altering the aesthetic.

This thoughtful and technologically advanced redesign has dramatically transformed St. Andrew’s worship experience, energizing the congregation and setting a strong foundation for the church’s next 30 years of growth​.