Often considered the cornerstones of a community, cultural centers like churches and museums are works of art. For centuries, these facilities have been built with concrete - a trusted material with a look, feel and flexibility limited only by the imagination of the designer.
Since these cultural facilities are places of fellowship, introspection and education; comfort and serenity are of prime importance. Some may think these characteristics would be tough to achieve using concrete, but that is certainly not the case.
Since 1980, insulation systems by Thermomass have been used to create spiritual buildings that are extremely durable, energy-efficient and cost-effective while also maintaining an environment that is both quiet and comfortable.
According to renowned architect, Glen R. Stephens of SAA Architecture, “As SAA explored incorporating a Thermomass system into spiritual buildings, we soon discovered it was a perfect application”. Stephens continued, “Churches, more than other buildings, face long periods with limited hours of operation interspersed with sudden periods of high occupancy. By combining CO sensing technology and the thermal storage performance of concrete walls insulated by Thermomass, we are able to design large sanctuary and fellowship spaces that are extraordinarily efficient to heat and cool.”
St. Sarkis Church
For this Charlotte church, the pairing of Thermomass System NC and Tilt-Up concrete panels was the answer to its congregation’s desire for a space that was historically accurate, energy-efficient and cost-effective.