Glenn Dale United Methodist Church

Historic Chapel Restoration & Sanctuary Renovation in Prince George’s County, Maryland

HD Squared Architects has partnered with Glenn Dale United Methodist Church since 2012, helping the congregation restore and reimagine their cherished spaces. Our collaboration began with the first of three grants to preserve the Historic Perkins Chapel, a beloved landmark in Prince George’s County, Maryland. When an electrical fire damaged the main sanctuary in 2020, the church’s trustees once again turned to the HD Squared team to guide them through recovery and renewal.

Rising After the Fire

In March 2020, an electrical fire swept through the sanctuary, damaging the ceiling, walls, pews, and carpet. Rather than focus only on repairs, the church saw an opportunity to rejuvenate additional areas, including the aging kitchen and adjoining common spaces, to create a cohesive, welcoming environment for worship and fellowship.

Working closely with church committees during the earliest months of the pandemic, HD Squared presented intentional design concepts that honored the chapel’s historic character while integrating modern, sustainable finishes. Our clear communication and empathy helped leadership reach consensus at each stage of the process.

Design Highlights

• Sustainable Flooring: Traditional wall-to-wall carpet was replaced with carpet tile made from recycled content for easier maintenance, future recyclability, and improved indoor air quality.

• Visual Continuity: The carpet pattern subtly guides visitors’ eyes toward the pulpit, where a rich burgundy inset centers attention on the speaker while concealing wear in high-traffic aisles.

• Preserving Character: Many original pews were refinished and retained, keeping the sanctuary’s warmth and sense of history.

• Healthy Finishes: Low-VOC paints throughout the sanctuary, halls, and kitchen improve air quality.

• Defined Details: Tone-on-tone paint and new trim add depth to once-all-white corridors, with darker cove bases that complement the new flooring.

• Economical Kitchen Refresh: Bright, textured laminate counters replaced outdated surfaces; existing cabinets were refinished in white Low-VOC paint with new hardware—simple changes that made a dramatic impact.

A Unified and Welcoming Space

The result is a sanctuary and fellowship area that feel renewed yet familiar. A unified design that blends beauty, sustainability, and functionality while respecting the church’s historic roots. What began as fire recovery became a testament to resilience, stewardship, and faith in both community and craft.

Photos by Geoffrey Hodgdon