Situation
Expanding to Meet the Needs of a Growing Congregation
Shepherd Church, one of the largest congregations in Los Angeles, has long served as a spiritual home for thousands. With roots dating back to 1912, it has grown into a vital presence in the San Fernando Valley, drawing nearly 10,000 weekly attendees and hosting more than 45,000 people for special events like its Fourth of July fireworks celebration. While the church had successfully launched multiple campuses and even spun off two separate congregations, the main campus was struggling to accommodate its growing community. The existing 2,100-seat auditorium had exceeded its capacity, forcing the church to add a multilevel parking structure and stretch its resources to meet demand. Recognizing the need for a more intentional and expansive space, the leadership team sought a design that would reflect its mission to be a light in the city while creating an inviting atmosphere for future generations.
Solution
Designing a Campus That Reflects Faith and Community
In reimagining Shepherd Church’s main campus, we sought to capture the heart of its identity while creating a space that would serve as a beacon of faith in Los Angeles. Through deep collaboration, we uncovered a unique connection between the church’s mission and the city’s history. The surrounding area had once been home to historic movie ranches and classic Western films, tying it closely to Hollywood’s storytelling legacy. As the entertainment industry continues to shape global culture, Shepherd Church sees itself as offering an alternative narrative—one that points to Jesus as the true north. This vision informed a campus design inspired by the aurora borealis, a phenomenon that beautifully illustrates the power of light breaking through darkness. This theme became the foundation for an immersive and meaningful worship environment that reflects the diversity and vibrancy of the church’s congregation.
Transformation
A New Landmark of Faith in Los Angeles
The completed redesign establishes Shepherd Church as a striking visual and spiritual landmark in Los Angeles. From a former parking lot and underutilized courtyard, the new campus now features a meandering pedestrian plaza known as CandleWalk, where visitors encounter a series of stone pillars topped with torches, symbolizing both the twelve apostles and the twelve tribes of Israel. A series of LED-lit cattails sways in the wind, creating a dynamic display that catches the attention of passersby. Outdoor gathering spaces, complete with fireplaces, seating, and water features, offer a warm and inviting setting for both quiet reflection and community engagement. The new 3,500-seat auditorium, positioned on the hills of Porter Ranch, stands as a testament to the church’s calling to be a light to the world. More than just a functional expansion, this transformation reinforces Shepherd’s mission to engage, inspire, and serve the people of Los Angeles for years to come.
