St. John Catholic Holy Innocent Chapel
Size: 7,136 square feet
Project Type: Remodel
Architect: Jeffrey Ferweda, AIA, NCARB
Completion Date: 2021
Sedgewick + Ferweda Architects was engaged to provide architectural and engineering design services for the renovation of the Bay Metro Central Bus Station, a 2,475-square-foot facility located at 1124 Washington Avenue in Bay City, Michigan. As the primary transfer hub for Bay Metro’s bus routes, the station supports daily transit operations through its ticketing area, driver break space, and public and employee restrooms. The scope of work focused on modernizing and improving the functionality, accessibility, and durability of the facility through a series of targeted upgrades, including removal of the existing skylight and installation of a new roof system, expansion of the ticket counter area, addition of automatic ADA-compliant entry doors, refurbishment of the front canopy, creation of dedicated staff restrooms, and construction of a new canopy at the rear of the building for drivers. Throughout the design process, our team collaborated closely with Bay Metro staff to develop a clear program for the renovations, conducted a comprehensive site survey to evaluate existing building conditions, completed all necessary code reviews, and prepared final construction documents for review and approval.
ScopE of work
The renovation focused on restoring the chapel's original function while improving circulation, accessibility, and the overall worship experience. Interior office partitions and finishes were removed to reestablish the chapel's open gathering space, while existing brickwork and exposed wooden trusses were carefully cleaned and restored. New tile flooring, lighting fixtures, Stations of the Cross, and a dedicated confessional area complemented the chapel's historic architecture.
A significant component of the project involved reimagining how visitors enter and experience the building. A new glass entrance connecting the chapel to the cemetery and nearby parish facilities, like the existing parking lot was created. The former Adelaide Street entrance was also reconfigured to provide an accessible entry, bridal preparation suite, restroom, and access to the upper loft.
Exterior improvements included new sidewalks, landscaping connections, and a redesigned stone wall surrounding the existing columbariums, creating a more cohesive transition between the chapel and cemetery.
Scope of Work
Before Pictures
Project Challenges
Renovating an existing historic building requires balancing modern functionality with the preservation of its original character. For St. John Catholic Parish Chapel, one of the primary challenges was creating a more welcoming and accessible entrance from the cemetery without compromising the building's architectural identity.
Creating a new entrance through the existing masonry required structural modifications, including extending steel support posts into the underground tunnels. The project also involved upgrading the existing HVAC system, which required routing large ductwork through those same tunnels. Both improvements demanded careful coordination to integrate modern building systems while maintaining the structural integrity and historic character of the chapel.
Throughout the renovation, material selections and architectural details were thoughtfully considered to preserve the chapel's character while ensuring its continued durability and functionality.
Project Renderings
What was once a repurposed office space is once again a chapel designed for worship, reflection, and community connection. Restored architectural features, refreshed interior finishes, and thoughtfully integrated modern amenities create an inviting environment that feels both familiar and renewed.
The improved entrances and pedestrian connections strengthen the relationship between the chapel, cemetery, and surrounding parish campus, while the addition of a bridal suite and confessional supports the building's renewed purpose.
By building upon the chapel's existing architectural character rather than replacing it, St. John Catholic Parish Chapel demonstrates how thoughtful renovation can honor a building's past while preparing it for the future.
The finished Project
