Exploring the Evolution in Church Architecture

Church architecture has always served as a reflection of spiritual identity & belief, cultural values, and community needs. From the towering cathedrals of Europe to minimalist contemporary spiritual centers, each culture has interpreted sacred space through its own understanding. Today, as churches seek to connect with diverse communities, embrace technology, and remain faithful to tradition, some ask the question: What should sacred space look like now?

The understanding of current church architectural trends informs and prepares church leaders to navigate a church building program with clarity and conviction. The choice between traditional and modern styles is a predictable, classic question that really seeks to compare the past to the present. However, because “modern” is a specific architecture from the mid-twentieth century, we’ll refer to any present design trends as contemporary as well as modern.

The answer about design trends or character is not about preference alone.  Historically it’s about creating spaces that support ministry, reflect identity, invite reverence and speak relevance.

Traditional Church Design Elements

Classic, time-honored church design represents centuries of evolving sacred language. From flying buttresses to soaring steeples or stained glass windows, religious or liturgical architectural features aren’t just intended to be aesthetic—they’re symbolic. Classic forms like Gothic arches and Romanesque vaults are rooted in the ancient desire to seek and connect with the majesty and mystery of the divine.

Traditional design often includes:

• Steeples and bell towers as beacons of religious assembly
• Stained glass that inspires through the power of light and story
• Vertical design that lifts the eye and heart toward heaven, seeking spiritual presence
• Cruciform layouts symbolize the cross and spiritual journey

Even though traditional is defined by dated periods, that doesn’t mean that, as a style, it is outdated. Many church designs integrate elements from many different sources of style into modern plans that still meet today’s requirements for accessibility, technology, and structural expansion. We often design sanctuaries that blend stone and stained glass with advanced audio-visual systems, energy-efficient mechanical systems, and open fellowship space. The result?… Notes of traditional design with contemporary function.

Modern/Contemporary Church Design Innovations

Contemporary religious architecture reflects a shift in cultural style and community expectations. Instead of echoing old design forms, many church designs start with a clean slate—asking what their building needs to accomplish. This often leads to simplified shapes, natural materials, and open layouts that prioritize connection and communication over tradition.

Characteristics of modern/contemporary church architecture:

• Flexible worship spaces for multiple styles and functions of activity
• Natural light and sustainable materials
• Minimalist symbolism that invites deep interpretation
• Technology integration for hybrid and digital ministry

Traditional or Modern? Both?

We see church architecture not as an either-or proposition between Traditional and Modern, but rather as a conversation between the two.

Traditional styles are often perceived to carry more symbolism, more detailed craftsmanship, and a recognizable deep sense of reverence. 

Modern design can also be every bit as symbolic, but more so with subjective interpretation as compared to traditional ornament and details.  Many people perceive Modern as bringing more openness, freedom, and connection to the Universal presence.

Again, there is no right or wrong, and our role is to help churches find the expression that fits their vision, their identity.  Good church architecture doesn’t just separate the sacred from the mundane—it bridges them. It creates a place where the everyday is welcomed, but gently lifted toward the eternal.

Sustainability and Technology in any Design Style

Regardless of the aesthetic direction, one shared priority has emerged across all new church designs: sustainability and smart technology. Whether Traditional or Modern in appearance, the most successful church designs consider these from the start. These features are no longer optional—they’re vital to stewardship and long-term function.

Common sustainable and tech-forward elements include:

• Energy-efficient lighting, HVAC, and insulation
• AVL (audio, video, lighting) systems are built into the design phase
• Solar panels and low-impact materials
• Smart building systems for maintenance and energy savings

Incorporating these elements early prevents costly retrofits later. It ensures that the church is not only beautiful—but efficient and enduring.

Ultimately, the architecture of the church should reflect the heart of the congregation.

Whether rooted in tradition or boldly modern, a church building should tell the story of its church congregation, support the church mission, and welcome others into sacred space.

Design FAQs

Q: Can traditional churches integrate modern features?
A: Yes, modern technology features. Many of our projects combine classic aesthetics with cutting-edge technology and function.

Q: How do we choose between traditional and modern?
A: The unique personality of your church answers this question. We will lead you to find the expression that fits your church vision, your church identity.

Q: What role does symbolism play in modern design?
A: While less overt, modern design can still carry deep symbolic weight through space, light, and form.