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CHURCH DESIGN FAQS

Planning a new church or renovation involves many decisions about design, art, lighting, acoustics, and furnishings. These FAQs answer common questions from pastors and parish leaders, helping you understand the process and make informed choices for your sacred space.

 

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What does a liturgical design consultant do, and how is it different from an architect?

A liturgical design consultant guides your parish through every aspect of church design—from altar placement to custom-designed furniture, sacred art, lighting, and acoustics—ensuring every decision supports Catholic worship and theology. Learn more →

 

How should we start planning a new church or renovation project?

Begin with a collaborative consultation, parish workshops, and master planning process. We help your community evaluate needs, budget, and long-term vision. Read more about our approach →

 

Why are Catholic artists and designers essential for our church’s sacred art?

Our team creates and restores crucifixes, Stations of the Cross, statues, sculptures, murals, mosaics, and stained glass that reflect liturgy, theology, and parish identity. Every element is designed to enhance worship and devotion. See sacred art come to life→

 

What role does furniture and flooring play in worship spaces?

Thoughtfully crafted altars, ambos, baptismal fonts, tabernacles, thrones, seating, and flooring support sacramental life and invite deeper participation in worship. Materials and finishes are chosen for beauty, durability, and liturgical appropriateness. Experience one parish's transformation →

 

Can historic furniture, statues, or other patrimony be reused in a new design?

Yes. We restore and carefully integrate existing pieces—focusing on those with historical, artistic, or devotional significance—into new or renovated spaces. Each item is placed to complement the environment and preserve your parish’s heritage. Explore examples →

 

How do we safeguard sacred art and furnishings in preparation for mergers or other risks?

We document and appraise your church’s art and furniture so they are properly valued, preserved, and prepared for protection during mergers, renovations, or emergencies. View our process →

 

How do colors, finishes, and materials in a sacred space support focus and engagement?

We work with expert artists and artisans to select colors, finishes, and materials for interiors, architectural details, furniture, and more—creating a holistic, serene, and inspiring environment that enhances worship and reflects your parish’s unique character. Read about liturgical interior design →

 

How does lighting affect the mood and focus in a church, and what should we know about lighting controls?

Custom-designed lighting highlights key liturgical elements, supports devotional practices, and sets the tone for Mass, prayer, and adoration. Modern systems create pre-set scenes for worship, music, and other activities, with intuitive controls for liturgical needs. Learn from our lighting experts →

 

Why are acoustics so important in worship spaces?

Proper acoustics ensure clear speech, support music, and encourage full congregational participation. They also provide assistive listening systems for hard-of-hearing and elderly worshippers and enable translations, making the space accessible and inclusive for all. Read our guide →

 

How much does a liturgical design project cost, and what affects pricing?

Costs vary depending on project scope, materials, and custom-designed art. We help parishes plan in phases to stay within budget while achieving their vision. Talk to an expert →

 

How can we fundraise effectively for our church project?

Our programs include visual presentations, 3D renderings, memorial opportunities, brochures, and columbaria as a living endowment to engage donors and support your parish’s long-term needs. See our successful fundraising strategies →

 

How involved will our parish be in the design process?

We partner closely with pastors, committees, and parishioners so every decision reflects your community’s vision and traditions. Download our services and projects PDF to share with your parish team →

 

How can we renew a church during a parish merger?

Selective updates to sacred art, furnishings, lighting, and acoustics can revitalize a worship space, unite parishioners, and fit within modest budgets. Learn how we helped Divine Mercy (Blackstone, MA) and St. Paul of the Cross (Pittsburgh) →

 

How do you work with historical worship spaces?

We honor each church’s history by respecting traditional techniques and following preservation standards while integrating modern needs. See how we prepared basilicas in New York City, Savannah, Marietta, Webster, and Beaumont for their required liturgical celebrations →

 

Where can I see more examples of your work?

Explore our Pinterest page to browse hundreds of images organized by project type. Find inspiration for your future vision →

 

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Still have questions?

Contact us for a free consultation to discuss your parish project. Get in touch →

Rohn & Associates Design, Inc. is a group of Catholic liturgical designers, artists & artisans since 1952

1113 Creedmoor Ave.  Pittsburgh, PA 15226 • Tel:  (412) 551-7144 • Fax: (412) 561-1202

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