marble church | Building Solutions

Marble , CO
Originally moved from Aspen, Colorado in 1912, the church was hastily reassembled on a rubble foundation. While a metal roof and various loving repairs had saved the building, the foundation was a fatal problem. The congregation was beginning to grow, but with predominantly a summer time population, the scope of the project seemed daunting – even if a community room addition was all that was contemplated. With expert construction advice, terrific community volunteerism, and generous historical renovation funding, the community was able to undertake a two step renovation. This entailed lifting the church – – a little more heavenward so that a solid foundation could be built below (including storage!!). Additionally an historically sympathetic community building in back was built (and housed the congregation during rehabilitation)… forming a courtyard which can gracefully accommodate indoor-outdoor gatherings, including weddings in this popular tourist destination.

One of the most exciting additions to the project scope were a series of donations from families long associated with the church (although no longer residents) who dedicated beautiful stain glass windows for the sanctuary – replacing badly damaged plastic insets. These gems truly illustrate the ability to preserve the historic and make it even better in the process. Ms. Updike oversaw the budget, fundraising, volunteers, and construction throughout both renovations.