SANCTUARY CHURCH

Sanctuary Church is a landmark community project situated on a 55,650m² site within the Sunshine Coast hinterland. Designed with deep respect for its natural setting, the project reimagines what a contemporary place of worship can be. It is a welcoming, multi-purpose destination for spiritual connection, community gathering, and lifelong learning. At the heart of the project lies a 790-seat auditorium, purpose-built for worship and large-scale events. Supporting this is an administration wing for church staff and volunteers, and a dedicated children’s ministry wing, all thoughtfully designed to foster inclusivity, family connection, and community spirit. The building embraces the Sunshine Coast’s subtropical climate through passive design strategies including cross-ventilation, deep verandas, and orientation to prevailing breezes. These principles ensure long-term comfort, sustainability, and a strong connection to place. One of the project’s most significant challenges, a steeply sloped site, became a guiding design opportunity. The building is sensitively recessed into the landscape, creating an intimate, grounded presence while allowing for accessible entry points, generous car parking, and electric buggy pick-up shelters to support ease of access during peak times. Inside, an expansive café space opens to a custom-designed children's play area, encouraging lingering, laughter, and everyday connection. The building’s scale is monumental yet warm, with soaring ceilings and flexible multipurpose zones that support a wide range of community activities and celebrations. Sanctuary Church is the result of close collaboration with the church leadership team and Arc Assembly, who brought richness and warmth to the interiors. More than a building, Sanctuary Church is a place to gather, grow, and belong. It is a powerful example of how architecture can serve both people and place with lasting impact. “From the outset, my hope was that our new church would be more than just a building, it would be a place that truly belongs to the surroundings and the people who gather here. Every decision, from the use of timber and sandstone to the placement of the olive tree, was made with a deep respect for the natural beauty and history of this site. The olive tree, in particular, has become a powerful symbol for us, a reminder of resilience, connection, and the enduring spirit of our community. The journey wasn’t always easy, but through collaboration, creativity, and a shared vision, we’ve created a space that feels both sacred and welcoming. I am incredibly proud of what we’ve accomplished together.” - Pastor Ashley Goode