A 35,000-square-foot centerpiece sanctuary addition to an existing church, located on a busy thoroughfare, in a high seismic-activity zone, presented a challenge to CNA Architecture Group, DCI Engineers, and Buntain Construction.

Total construction time was eight months. The design includes stepped panels at the sides of the building to provide an interesting transition between the narrow altar and wide sanctuary. Some of the panels are 47 feet high, while the cross in front is 40 feet and rises 70 feet above grade. The 2,800-seat sanctuary utilizes 140-foot clear span roof trusses.

Many of the design elements are unusual in Tilt-Up construction. Because of the high seismic zone, panels and attachments to the roof had to be designed for Uniform Building Code Zone 3 force requirements.

In addition, the panels had to be stack-cast up to four deep on available casting beds, since much of the area was sloped for the seating area.

This project incorporates the best of architectural and structural design elements and a unique application of cost-effective Tilt-Up construction.