Mt. Olive Lutheran Church
(Mukwonago, Wisconsin, USA), Study: April-May 2006

Program:	Spatial study and strategy for church expansion
Client:	Mt. Olive Lutheran Church
With:	Ines Fritz
Size/Area:	approx. 2.000 m²

Mt. Olive is one of the last remaining churches in downtown Mukwonago and is located just off of what remains of the main square. The church is considering expansion and the spatial study defines possible scenarios to assist in the next stage of decision-making and planning.

Three main scenarios were examined: 1) one which looks at the options and phasing associated with the next door property. 2) one which reviews the option of vertically expanding the existing building and 3) one of purchasing new land on the outskirts. Advantages and disadvantages for each at a number of scales were outlined for consideration by the congregation.

The preferred scenario allows for an expansion to be undertaken in phases, and draws upon an old architectural church element - the "kreuzgang" or enclosed corridor - to link both the existing buildings and a new building, forming a protected courtyard with access from the main Fellowship areas.