WILLIAMSBURG— As churches across Hampton Roads navigate changing attendance patterns, evolving ministry needs and aging facilities, a group of local experts is coming together to help congregations plan for the future.
GuernseyTingle, in partnership with Henderson Inc., David Nice Builders, Chesapeake Bank, Griffin Church Loans and Intentional Charity will host the “Building of the Kingdom: Church Construction & Renovation Workshop” on Friday, May 1 at King of Glory Lutheran Church in Williamsburg.
The free half-day workshop is designed for church leaders, building committees and ministry decision-makers who are considering construction, renovation or facility upgrades.
“Church building projects are often the largest financial and emotional investments a congregation will ever make,” said GuernseyTingle Principal Brad Sipes. “This workshop is about helping churches avoid costly missteps and create spaces that support ministry not just today, but for decades to come.”
Responding to Shifting Needs in Worship Spaces
The event comes at a time when churches across the region and nationwide are rethinking how their spaces are used.
More congregations are embracing adaptive reuse, converting retail, office and warehouse spaces into worship centers as a flexible and cost-effective alternative to new construction. At the same time, churches are increasingly designing multi-use environments that support worship, community programming, childcare and outreach throughout the week rather than remaining idle outside of Sunday services.
Many ministries are also turning to phased master planning, allowing them to build in stages that align with growth and available funding, rather than undertaking large-scale projects all at once. In other cases, congregations are opting for interior refreshes—modernizing lighting, acoustics and layouts to improve engagement without expanding their physical footprint.
With construction costs continuing to rise, churches are placing greater emphasis on financial stewardship and transparency, carefully planning budgets and funding strategies while maintaining clear communication with their congregations.
“These trends reflect a broader shift in how churches think about stewardship and community impact,” said Sipes. “it’s about building smarter, rather than just building bigger.”
Practical Guidance from Local Experts
The workshop will feature a team of architects, contractors and financial professionals who will guide attendees through every phase of a church building project. Sessions will cover long-term strategic master planning, helping churches think 20 years into the future, as well as a clear explanation of construction delivery methods such as Design-Bid-Build, Construction Manager at Risk and Design-Build.
Participants will also gain a deeper understanding of budgeting, including the distinction between hard costs and often-overlooked soft costs such as furniture, fixtures and equipment. The program will explore adaptive reuse strategies, renovation opportunities and design innovations, including how thoughtful design can enhance both ministry impact and revenue potential.
In addition to technical guidance, the workshop will address the “soft skills” of building projects, including how to manage congregational expectations, communicate effectively with donors and navigate decision-making processes that can impact church unity.
The event will also include networking opportunities with fellow church leaders, a catered lunch and a panel discussion focused on funding worship renovation projects.
Building of the Kingdom: Church Construction & Renovation Workshop
will take place Friday, May 1, 2026 from 8 a.m. – 2 p.m. at King of Glory Lutheran Church. The workshop is free with registration required.