Signs
Back in 2019, Church of the Redeemer reconvened our Art & Design Team for the purpose of updating some of the most used spaces in our building. During one particular walkthrough of the facility, we focused on the way we welcome people to Church of the Redeemer. At that time, the Team noticed that our parking lot entrance did not have the same inviting impact on someone entering the church as the front entrance did. There was little information about what was happening at the church, the location of the reception desk created a barrier effect, seating for visitors was hidden, and the lack of available storage meant that various donated items were consistently accumulating up against the walls.
In the short term, we tried a few things to address this. During our Hygge-themed Advent we created a more soft and cozy space and encouraged people to use it. We used one of our portable smart TVs to show notices of upcoming events. All of these were temporary as the team planned a long-term approach. But, as you might have guessed, our long-term plans were delayed indefinitely because of the pandemic. This past Summer we were finally able to address our reception area and make it more welcoming and informative! As you’ve probably noticed, now the space is more open and inviting. A storage closet has been created for storing donations. There is ample seating for those waiting and those who just want to catch up. And our sign TV has moved from a not very attractive portable stand to its own information alcove!
Meanwhile, down in the Narthex – especially in the last couple years, the signboards near the entrance to the Sanctuary entrance began to fall apart. The plastic had become brittle, and the adhesive began to fail. While we’ve been able to repair them a few times, the main information board was determined to be beyond repair this summer. When comparing the costs of replacement, we also looked at the cost of the TV sign we already had set up in the reception area. With the equipment and software already in use, we realized a similar TV in the Narthex would be a cost-effective and attractive solution. The TV sign provides the same information as our posters previously did, but also allows us to display a week at-a-glance calendar, which shows all the Church of the Redeemer events for the week!
We are so grateful for the hard, thoughtful work of the Art & Design Team, as well as that of our Building Manager, Kris Woolf, who has overseen this transition beautifully. Please be sure to take a moment to look at the helpful reminders found on these signs the next time you are at church, and when you’re able, don’t forget to thank Kris and the team for their contribution to the aesthetics and accessibility of this church we all love so much!
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