The Heights Baptist Church
Richardson, Texas
Seat Count: 2,500
Project Type: New Construction
Project Completion: 2004
Architect: F&S Partners
AD Scope: Audio, Video, Auditorium Design,
Acoustics, Theatrical Lighting, Architectural
Lighting
The Heights in Richardson, Texas wanted a sanctuary that would accommodate its growing congregation and to be intentional in its ministry to the community.
It was important that the performance systems facilitate the total worship experience. A high-powered split mono system was specified to support both speech and music. Computer modeling revealed that it would be difficult for the system to get sound coverage to the terraced seating on the far sides of the auditorium, so side fill speakers were installed specifically for the terraces to insure that each person receives music and the spoken word with clarity.
For the side walls of the worship center, we designed a combination of reflective and absorbative surfaces to reach a proper balance of energy in the space. The absorbative surfaces are actually spaced out from the wall to increase their effectiveness, but this is disguised behind the wall fabric to improve the aesthetic. In the choir loft, specialized ceiling shaping and vertical columns allow the choir to hear themselves sing while minimizing the impact of the choir monitors on the rest of the audio system.
Video is projected on 16 x 9 projection screens. Studies were done during the design process to ensure that the specified projectors had sufficient brightness so that images are clearly seen even at the back of the auditorium.
A space for a future audio and production room has been created with power and cabling infrastructure already in place so that the church can add the systems as funds become available.
Theatrical lighting fixtures are recessed in ceiling alcoves for a clean look from the seating area.
