As one of the largest minority churches in Austin, St. James had outgrown its original campus and was ready to expand. The new property, just a short walk from their existing location, opened the door to a bold new vision—one that more than doubled their capacity and diversified their ministries.

The first phase included a 2,000-seat sanctuary—more than 2½ times larger than their former space—with a 150-member choir, rehearsal and robing areas, 12 multi-purpose classrooms, nursery, bookstore, library, nursing station, and an administrative suite with nine offices. The pastor’s office was designed with direct access to the chancel. The total area for this building was 35,230 square feet.

At the heart of the Master Plan was a second facility: the Church Fitness Center. Designed as a Family Life Center, it included a full gymnasium, locker rooms, showers, sauna and steam room, aerobics and yoga studios, a weight room, kitchen and diner, storage for tables and chairs, office space, and all supporting infrastructure. This 20,400-square-foot building was designed with a distinct identity from the street, yet functioned as a cohesive part of the larger campus—sharing parking and reinforcing the church’s ministry priorities.