Rather than opt for a greenfield site and new construction endeavor, River Ridge purchased an abandoned Saturn car dealership at a prominent interstate exit.
Key aspects of the Silling design included the development of new and existing entrances, and a large central gathering space carved between previous lobbies, parts’ bays, and service areas. A new 300-seat worship area was created through the dramatic transformation of the primary vehicle maintenance area. A dynamic teen meeting space was developed within a projected, glass pavilion at the corner of the showroom floor. Nurseries, elementary, and a large “River Camp” children’s theatre were stacked within the two-story section of existing office spaces. Existing glass garage doors were salvaged from the facility and incorporated in the interior, offering views of the teen and adult meetings spaces.
