Challenge

Lakeland Community Church was experiencing rapid growth—so much so that prior additions were outpaced within just 18 months. They had purchased a building and begun renovations with another contractor but encountered budget overruns and unmet expectations. Church leadership had a visionary plan to expand by 30,000 sq ft—adding worship, gathering, and office spaces—along with expanded parking and renovations, but previous experience left them wary. Catalyst was tasked with rebuilding trust, guiding design from early phases, and aligning ambitious vision with a strict budget.

Solution

Catalyst Construction stepped in as a steady, values-aligned construction manager, revamping the approach from the ground up. We collaborated early with Groth Design Group to redesign the project for optimal functionality and cost efficiency, bringing durability, aesthetics, and long-term value into the mix. To foster trust and operational transparency, Catalyst delivered reliable early milestones and consistent communication, rebuilding faith in the process. Several congregation members who are trade professionals also contributed discounted labor—Catalyst coordinated these offers into our cost-saving strategy while ensuring quality above expectations.

Impact

• Catalyzed a 30,000-sq ft addition including new worship, gathering, and office spaces, laying the foundation for ongoing ministry expansion.

• Delivered expanded parking and renovated existing facilities, enhancing guest experience, traffic flow, and usability for both regular services and large-campus events.
• Rebuilt a trusting, collaborative culture between the church and its builder through consistent delivery of early project gains and transparent budget management.
• Integrated community goodwill through discounted service offerings from member-tradespeople, providing significant cost savings and fostering deeper ownership within the congregation.
• Resulting in a versatile, future-focused facility that supports Lakeland’s NextGen ministry, accommodating children’s ministry, improved gathering areas, and capacity for future phases.