Christ Church–Lake Forest
Lake Forest, Illinois
11,000 sf Parish House | 2,000 sf pre-function gathering space expansion
As part of an expansion to the historic Christ Church–Lake Forest campus, Eckenhoff Saunders designed a new 11,000 sf, two-story Parish House connected to the existing Meeting House by an enclosed walkway. The project also included a 2,000-square-foot expansion of the church’s pre-function gathering space and new tiered seating within the existing sanctuary balcony.
The new Parish House provides three classrooms, two large multipurpose spaces, and administrative offices. Within the existing Meeting House, the pantry was relocated to better support church functions and community events.
Eckenhoff Saunders also developed a comprehensive campus master plan that includes a future Parish House, a sunken gymnasium, and additional site improvements. The design embraces the building’s loft-inspired character, integrating exposed wood and masonry throughout the interior to create warm, welcoming spaces for worship, education, and fellowship.