Washington University in St. Louis

Degree Project

Sungho Kim section

8/2019-12/2019.

The United States of America is so-called a nation on wheels. Automobiles are so popular in this country and almost no one can live without owning a car. So, rooted in this profound culture and history of driving, multiple interactions between cars and architecture, such as drive-thru, drive-in, and tailgating party has been spawned unsurprisingly. This church is located on Hanley Road, one of the busiest commercial corridors in the St. Louis Metropolitan Area, the road itself was simply designed for driving without considering pedestrian needs. Based on the existing parking lot of the Central Presbyterian Church, the project is not only a space for parking but also offers several drive-thru and drive-in services which help run the church financially. Beyond these programs, it is also a good place for people living nearby to have jogging, walking, biking, and hanging out with friends and families in the elevated infrastructure. Additionally, it will become a great space for neighbors to continue their religious activities during pandemics since private cars will offer safe and independent spaces to meet the social distance requirements.