The facility was created to provide Ft. Hood with a non-denominational space for religious and community activities. The fairly rigid design standards of the Army forced the design team to come up with creative solutions to complex issues while still matching the feel of the surrounding built environment. By establishing a highly-detailed basis of design in initial meetings with the client, the Schematic Design process was not needed, and time-consuming decisions were minimized later in the project.

Through all stages of the project, GSC ensured that the client worked in tandem with the design team to produce a final result that met and exceed their expectations. The use of detailed three-dimensional computer models allowed for accurate estimation of material and finish costs, and let the client experience the space before ground had even been broken. GSC provided FF&E services, selecting traditional furnishings that were aesthetically-pleasing, durable, and ergonomically sound.

As the complex serves a wide array of religious and community events, it was designed to evoke a sense of familiarity and comfort for the user rather than an overtly ascetic or secular feeling. The building engages the occupants at a human level, addressing their perceptions of space, comfort, and atmosphere with carefully selected materials and finishes. The end result of the design is a space for Ft. Hood’s residents to learn, heal, connect with new people and ideas, and celebrate.