Project Overview
As St. Thomas More Catholic Church experienced rapid parish growth, the need for expanded worship and gathering space became clear. Since relocating in 2009, the parish has grown from approximately 600 to more than 1,500 households. As a result, the original sanctuary, which seated only 475 people, could no longer support weekend and holiday Masses without overflow spaces. In response, St. Thomas More partnered with Emergent Architecture to plan an expansion and renovation that would support current needs while preparing for future growth.
Planning for Growth and Stewardship
To guide the effort, the parish launched the Growing More in Faith campaign. Initially, the vision included a larger expansion. However, pandemic-related delays and rising construction costs required the project scope to be refined. Through careful evaluation, the final design balances stewardship, functionality, and flexibility.
Rather than overbuilding, the project focuses on meeting immediate needs while preserving the ability to expand later. Because of this approach, the parish was able to move forward responsibly without compromising its long-term vision.
The Project Team
Gary Landhauser
Principal Architect
Becca Haugen
Interior Design Associate
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$10.8 million
Construction Costs
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Addition & Renovation
Scope
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2025
completed
Expanded Worship and Gathering Spaces
At the heart of the project is a new sanctuary designed to seat approximately 1,100 parishioners. Compared to the original space, this more than doubles worship capacity and significantly reduces the need for overflow seating.
In addition, a new fellowship hall accommodates up to 500 people. This space supports gatherings, events, and parish life beyond worship. Together, these additions strengthen community connection and enhance the parish experience.
Renovation and Functional Improvements
Beyond new construction, the project includes renovations to existing offices, classrooms, and worship spaces. As these areas were updated, functionality improved to better support ministries, education programs, and daily operations. At the same time, circulation and space use were refined to support a growing and active parish.
Phased Delivery and Collaboration
Throughout the process, Emergent worked closely with parish leadership and the Diocese of Davenport to align the project scope with available funding. Through phased delivery and prioritization, essential elements were completed first while maintaining flexibility for future phases.
By leveraging existing spaces and refining square footage, the design meets present needs while remaining adaptable. This collaboration emphasized stewardship, transparency, and responsible use of resources.
Holistic Scope of Work
The project includes both new construction and interior renovation work, including:
- Structural systems, foundations, framing, and roofing
- Curtain wall systems, glazing, doors, and finish carpentry
- Mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and HVAC systems
- Voice and data infrastructure
- Interior finishes such as drywall, flooring, casework, paint, and wall coverings
- Exterior site improvements, including utilities, paving, sidewalks, landscaping, and a relocated geothermal system
Lasting Impact
When complete, the expanded worship facilities reflect the vitality and commitment of the St. Thomas More parish. Most importantly, the design supports increased participation while fostering fellowship and connection.
Ultimately, the project reinforces the church’s role as both a spiritual home and a community anchor. It affirms the parish’s long-term vision to welcome more people in faith, prayer, and service, today and for generations to come.
- Religious
- Completed
- Religious
- Completed
St. Ludmila Catholic Church
Cedar Rapids