February 2002

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If you would like additional information about FSF Architects please contact us by email or call, 770-729-8433 or 1-800-463-3732.

If you have not yet visited our website, please do so.  It contains information on the firm as well as selected projects of banks and churches.  Also on the site is a collection of church design articles meant to assist the church committee in the planning and design process.

"Come, let us rebuild the wall of Jerusalem, and we will no longer be a disgrace."
     - Nehemiah 2:17

In verses 11 - 17, Nehemiah spent several days carefully observing and assessing the damage to the walls of Jerusalem.  Following this time of consideration, he confidently presents his plan.  He demonstrates an excellent approach to problem solving; get firsthand information and carefully consider the situation before presenting a realistic strategy.  

Follow Nehemiah's example and plan ahead.   Check your information and be sure your ideas will work  -  be realistic.  Then you will be able to present a clear  plan with confidence.  FSF is experienced in helping you plan your vision and to bring it to life. 

Previous newsletters are available on the web site:

August 2001
  Salem Baptist
  Planters Bank

October 2001
  Main Street Bank
  Salvation Army

December 2001
  Woolsey Baptist
  Colonial Hills Baptist

John Way, 
President

The surrounding downtown area was analyzed for dominant themes.  The heavy roof cornice, floor line cornice and large "window shopping" windows were all major elements and were incorporated into the new design.    A renovated lobby, new teller line, offices, and board room were part of the interior renovations.

A local contractor, Adams Construction, was called in to renovate the facility.  The greatest challenges were the associated phasing and timing, all to keep the bank in operation while both the interior and exterior construction were completed.  The completed renovation now fits the image of Hawkinsville and provides the city with yet another landmark building.

Visit other financial institution projects on our website.

These days we have a unique situation in the economy that will allow almost any business or institution to own its own facilities for a lower monthly cost than renting the same amount of space. Interest rates are lower than they have been in more than 40 years and construction costs have leveled off after 10 years of inflation. This is an ideal time to build or renovate. It is like a giant "sale." When the economy improves, construction prices will begin to rise again and so will interest rates. 

Jim Seibert, a Gwinnett builder and developer, told me recently: "Prior to the Olympics many businesses delayed projects thinking that construction for the Games was driving up the cost. So many delays occurred that, after the Games, demand grew rapidly and costs increased. Instead of a predicted downturn, we had a boom. Recent events have again created delays. My belief is that the summer and fall will prove to be catch up time again, with the potential for cost increases."

Deciding to delay could be a very expensive decision. If you are reluctant to borrow money right now because of economic uncertainty or because you are concerned about being able to pay off the loan, then perhaps you should look at the issue from the following perspective:

·  For many situations, it is possible now to have lower mortgage payments than rent payments for similar space.

·  If you decide to wait, construction costs will definitely be higher, but the largest cost over time will be in higher loan payments, because interest rates will go up.

·  Waiting for the economy to improve may be a self defeating strategy. Your business may need more space in order to grow or make more money. Your church may need space to accommodate growth in attendance. Any entity that uses buildings as tools to carry out its mission must consider it may be costly to wait too long for the space it needs, especially if this curtails your ability to carry out your mission.

·  Owning your own building could be one of the best investments you will ever make. Real Estate always appreciates in value over time. There are also many great tax advantages for businesses.

Building may not be right for everyone.  You should consult with qualified real estate professionals, lenders, accountants, and design professionals before deciding what is best in your situation.  However, if you need space, now is the right time to build.

Marietta, Georgia

The building shown above is the 25,000 square foot Youth Building.  The concept is to evangelize by creating a series of large spaces and smaller, more intimate gathering areas.  It is a building the youth and surrounding community can use to congregate and call their own.  The landmark image is made architecturally through rhythm, movement, lighting and a blend of existing and new materials.

Prince of Peace Lutheran Church in Fayetteville dedicated its new multi-purpose building on February 3rd.  Leslie Construction was the Contractor.

Foreman · Seeley · Fountain    Architects
5855 Jimmy Carter Boulevard      Suite 218      Norcross, Georgia  30071
(770) 729-8433      fax (770) 729-8466     1-800-463-3732