Situated in the heart of downtown Akron, the First United Methodist Church stands as the region’s oldest Methodist congregation. The construction of his religious complex was necessitated by the destruction of the previous facility in a mid-90s fire. A pivotal aspect of this project entailed assessing the adjacent properties that remained unaffected by the fire.

Ultimately, the decision was made to clear the site of all remaining structures, consolidate the property, and prioritize a comprehensive plan that not only aligns with the church’s mission as a congregation but also addresses and serves the needs of the urban environment.

The congregation’s rich history and preserved artifacts have been seamlessly woven into a contemporary design that is poised to continue benefiting the community for years to come.