COLUMBUS, Ind. – – Louis Joyner Architect has been recognized with a prestigious preservation award for the comprehensive restoration of the iconic clock tower at First Christian Church in Columbus.
The award highlights the firm’s dedication to preserving the architectural legacy of this National Historic Landmark, originally designed by the father-son duo Eliel and Eero Saarinen and completed in 1942.
First Christian Church was the first modernist structure in Columbus, setting the stage for the city’s reputation as a hub for world-class architecture. Its 166-foot clock tower, a feature of the city’s skyline, has required continuous maintenance since cracks were first observed in 1945. Following a 2019 assessment, a full-scale restoration was deemed necessary to stabilize the structure and address long-standing concerns about movement and water infiltration.
The award underscores the significance of preserving modernist landmarks and the impact of community-driven restoration efforts. Thanks to the dedication of the project team and the generosity of funding partners, the First Christian Church clock tower stands strong, ensuring its place in Columbus’ skyline long into the future.
The $3 million project was made possible through strong support from the congregation, the community, and grants from Partners for Sacred Places, the National Park Service, and the Jeffris Family Foundation. The Heritage Fund and Landmark Columbus Foundation were instrumental in the congregation’s outreach for community support.
