Third Church of Christ Scientist

262 South Highland Street , Memphis, TN 38111 United States

Building Area (sf): 4,600

Completion: August 2022

Third Church of Christ Scientist reinvents itself as minimalist, welcoming, community asset while navigating the transitional space between community and commercial zones.

The Third Church of Christ Scientist in Memphis, Tennessee undertook a project to align their space with core principles, aiming to construct a new sanctuary for future growth in a thriving area. Located near Highland Row and the University of Memphis, the new church contributes to East Buntyn's revitalization and stimulates growth along the Highland Strip. The project navigates two contrasting zoning areas: a new urban overlay district with commercial properties pushing for greater density, and a quadrant of single-family homes separating two major commercial nodes.

The design team considered the church's unique location between high-rise towers and residential buildings, breaking down the structure into campus-like components that relate to both single-family homes and dense commercial areas. The new minimalist design addresses the inefficiencies of the previous oversized building by reducing energy waste and removing single-purpose spaces, emphasizing multi-use and flexibility.

The site plan adhered to zoning parameters and a zero setback line, incorporating biophilic principles with natural light, materials, and textures. Floor-to-ceiling windows create transparency between interior and exterior spaces, enhancing the connection with the environment. Deep eaves provide natural daylighting while insulating sensitive areas from neighbors with higher vantage points.

Through this redevelopment, the Third Church of Christ Scientist has aligned their physical space with their mission, fostering a connection between historic values and modern community needs. This initiative reflects their commitment to progress and community engagement, aiming to guide future development while preserving the scale in the transitional area between differing building types.

1. Site context influence on programmatic adjacencies
2. Programmatic prioritization effect on building massing and plan
3. The church's strategic location, just a few blocks away from the vibrant Highland Row district and the University of Memphis, contributes to the ongoing revitalization efforts in the East Buntyn area. Photography by Dero Sanford / ThinkDero Architectural Photography
4. A strong axial alignment gives the sanctuary a powerful street presence despite its setback position on site which allows for an extended entry sequence through the public courtyard. Photography by Dero Sanford / ThinkDero Architectural Photography
5. A challenge to downsizing was the desire for a smaller sanctuary to better match the size of the congregation, but the need for the space to retain a sense of spiritual reverence. Lofty ceilings supported by exposed structure wrapped in select grade cypress create a warm, light-filled volume that encourages eyes to move upwards. Photography by Dero Sanford / ThinkDero Architectural Photography
6. The reading room, a staple of this Christian denomination, is a library and public resource open to the public. The volume echoes architectural moves of the sanctuary and creates a campus atmosphere surrounding the entry courtyard while holding the urban edge along Highland Street. Photography by Dero Sanford / ThinkDero Architectural Photography
7. The reading room’s window adorned exterior beckons to the curious and announces the church’s presence as a public resource waiting to be tapped. Photography by Dero Sanford / ThinkDero Architectural Photography
8. Downsizing to 35% of their previous space was an exercise in restraint and intentionality. The decision to use the building volumes to create an intimate entry courtyard was at little cost and great benefit; allowing for a more grand entry sequence, overflow space for larger gatherings, Sunday school extension to nature, and a public seating area (for lunch or a break for your dog to get a sip of water). Photography by Dero Sanford / ThinkDero Architectural Photography
9. The large street facing windows piques interest and strengthens the church’s position as a community asset. Photography by Dero Sanford / ThinkDero Architectural Photography
10. Soaring eaves depart crisp white walls of the exterior separated by expanses of glass that allow light to spill from the space at night becoming a beacon bookending a quiet residential street and a threshold to the bustling highland row district. Photography by Dero Sanford / ThinkDero Architectural Photography