Chancel Renovation

First Church Somerville is an Open and Affirming Congregation dedicated to the full inclusion of LGBTQ+ individuals in all aspects of its community life and leadership. When a pastor who uses a wheelchair joined the congregation, the Church engaged KMA to design an accessible chancel to replace the historic one that was reachable only accessible by stairs.

KMA redesigned the chancel as a symmetrical platform, lower to the finished floor than the original chancel and reached by a central cascading stair flanked by gently sloping ramps. The ramps are strategically placed to preserve the symmetry, sight lines, and visual character of the historic sanctuary. This thoughtful design seamlessly integrates accessibility and the congregation’s liturgical requirements while embodying the Church’s commitment to inclusion by ensuring all members of the community can fully participate in spiritual and cultural activities.