Running the Survey

March 7, 2004, the town of Hillsboro, Kansas suffered a tragic loss as fire destroyed the Hillsboro Mennonite Brethren Church. Community and church members alike watched in shock as five county fire districts battled the fire for three days. When the smoke cleared it was painfully obvious that the landmark building was completely ravaged. The fire left nothing untouched. Needing a new building, the church turned to Hutton Construction and the architect to collaborate and conquer.

Laying the Foundation

Newly acquired ground provided the perfect slate to start anew. Working with the design team, Hutton Construction provided early design valuation and made recommendations that kept the budget intact while maintaining the needs of the church. No detail was overlooked. Concerns over acoustical performance and sound transmission were skillfully laid to rest as Hutton Construction and the design team incorporated creative ideas into the final building design. With plans finalized and winter quickly approaching, we began the rebuilding process.

The Finishing Touches

After the fire and during construction, the church faithfully continued services every Sunday in the high school gymnasium. Excitement and anticipation grew as church members watched the new building rise from the foundations. With purposeful planning, the new building was finished with familiar materials. Warm and inviting, the exterior of the building showcases native Kansas limestone columns, brick wainscot and plaster veneer walls. Inside, visitors are greeted with comfortable earth tones in the floor and wall finishes. Natural materials were introduced with additional limestone features and traditional oak millwork to give the interior an overall inviting appeal.