ARCHITECTURAL SERVICES
Request for Qualifications for Architectural Services
Church of the Palms, Sarasota, seeks a qualified architectural firm to provide design and construction administration services to support a major inside renovation of our sanctuary building. Improvements we intend to install include aesthetics, acoustics, general lighting, ceiling structure, and organ chamber structure. Renovations must be complete by early September 2026, and we anticipate closing the sanctuary for the majority of construction beginning April 6, 2026. After renovations, beginning on or about May 2027, we intend to replace our existing digital organ with a Schoenstein pipe organ of approximately 3,000 pipes.
Background
The Sanctuary was completed in 1993 and has not been substantially renovated. The first floor and balcony are approximately 17,723 sq. ft., with a maximum occupancy of app. 950. Walls and ceilings consist of acoustic panels, wood paneling, and drywall. The flooring throughout the building is carpet except for the Chancel which is wood. A hearing loop is installed under the carpet. The wood veneer pews are fixed padded seat and back. Ceiling lights are can lights with LED bulbs. Ceiling drywall is supported by acoustic ceiling hangers unsuitable for the purpose. The original construction included two pipe organ chambers behind and above the chancel.
Church of the Palms hired acoustic engineering and organ consulting firm Scott R Riedel & Associates of Milwaukee to conduct acoustic evaluation and provide design recommendations to improve acoustics. The firm will continue to provide such contracted services until the organ has been accepted by COP.
We also hired Jon Swift Construction, Inc. to help COP develop the scope of work and budget for the renovation. This work has been completed.
In November 2024 we contracted with Schoenstein & Co. to design, build and install a pipe organ. Design and build will begin after renovations are complete but no later than early September 2026, with installation to begin app. May 2027, complete NLT Sep 2027.
Project Overview
Church of the Palms has completed a scope of work which includes the following renovations:
• Organ chamber structural improvement to support the pipe weight
• Organ chamber finish and electrical
• Blower room 3 phase, 220V electrical
• Ceiling structure improvement
• Installation of two layers of ceiling drywall
• Ceiling light replacement
• HVAC grille replacement
• Install ceiling diffusion elements
• Replace sprinkler heads
• Install hard flooring
• Install compatible hearing loop
• Replace pews
• Replace wall panels
• Refinish all woodwork
• Install balcony rail
• Renovate narthex
Budget Range $2,000,000 to $4,000,000
Qualifications Required
Demonstrate experience with similar project types and scale. A strong portfolio showcasing design expertise in churches and acoustics is a plus.
Provide evidence of ability to manage complex projects within budget and schedule constraints.
Describe the experience and qualifications of the professionals including engineers and project managers.
Additional Expectations from Architectural Firm
• Review existing interior
• Review recommendations from acoustical consultant. Be able to provide alternative solutions as necessary
• Produce necessary construction drawings
• Provide finish and material samples
• Participate in contractor selections and bid reviews
• Review contractor payment request
• Attend planning meetings with church committee and key ministry stakeholders
Submission Requirements
A detailed firm profile outlining your experience and company philosophy.
A selection of relevant project portfolios showcasing design solutions and project outcomes.
A proposed project team structure with designated roles and responsibilities for this project.
A brief description of your approach to project management, including communication strategies and collaboration with the remodeling committee.
A fee proposal outlining your estimated project costs and billing structure.
Submission Deadline & Contact Information
Submit your qualifications package as a PDF file by February 24, 2025, to: Robert Land, Property Director at rland@churchofthepalms.org and Linelle Dickinson at linelleddickinson@icloud.com. Should you have any questions regarding this Request for Qualifications, or would like to tour our sanctuary, or need additional documentation, plans, reports, etc., please contact Robert Land by email or at 941-924-1323 x 208.
On behalf of the remodeling committee, we look forward to receiving your submission and exploring the potential for a successful partnership on this project.
Robert Land
Property Director
Church of the Palms PCUSA
3224 Bee Ridge Rd | Sarasota, FL 34239
Phone: 941 924-1323 x 228
rland@churchofthepalms.org
