
Kodet Architectural Group Ltd. sought to minimize its impact and sensitively maintain the essence of the space’s original design by Ed Sövik.
“We had the pleasure of working with Ed Sövik and sharing our vision for the project. When you have something so good to start, you’re more likely to have good results. We wanted to minimize our impact and sensitively maintain the essence of the space’s design,” says Ed Kodet Jr., FAIA, president of Kodet Architectural Group. “It’s rare to have an opportunity to work with the original architect on a restoration project. The experience took on even greater meaning as Ed passed away this May.”

The phased improvements focused on modernization for liturgical needs, acoustics, lighting and audio/visual technologies.
To maintain Westwood Lutheran’s original architecture, while meeting the congregation’s current needs, Kodet Architectural Group prepared a master plan, phasing plan and long-term vision for the 9,000-square-foot church. The phased improvements focused on modernization for liturgical needs; acoustics with the help of Kirkegaard Associates, Chicago; lighting and audio/visual technologies. The slightly canted side walls and suspended ceiling “clouds” not only enhance acoustics, but also conceal the sprinkler lines and accommodate energy-efficient light fixtures. Mechanical/electrical engineering was completed by Ericksen Ellison Associates Inc., New Brighton, Minn. General contractor was Karkela Construction Inc., St. Louis Park.

The slightly canted side walls and suspended ceiling “clouds” not only enhance acoustics, but also conceal the sprinkler lines and accommodate energy-efficient light fixtures.
The AIA Merit Award jurors offered their compliments saying: “This restoration of an Ed Sövik award-winning church revives a mid-century building. The restoration uplifts the space with new lighting, as does the removal of pews, which are replaced with movable seating. The restoration makes an already inspiring, sacred space more functional.”
PHOTOS: Dana Wheelock, Wheelock Photography
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