St. Patrick's Catholic Church in Elkhorn
St. Patrick's Catholic Church in Elkhorn
St. Patrick Catholic Church in Elkhorn, Nebraska, is a 157-year-old parish. Morrissey Engineering, in collaboration with RDG Planning and Design, supported a comprehensive master planning and design for the new 12-acre campus, significantly increasing capacity and functionality for the nearly 3,000-family parish.
Services
Features
Featuring a 1,300-seat church, a 100-seat day chapel, a 600-seat parish hall, administrative offices, and flexible ministry and gathering spaces. Morrissey Engineering provided comprehensive Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing design services to deliver high-performance building systems that enhance occupant comfort, energy efficiency, and long-term operational reliability.
MEP systems were carefully integrated to support large assembly spaces with varying occupancy levels, incorporating energy-efficient HVAC systems with advanced zoning and controls to maintain optimal thermal comfort while minimizing energy use. High-efficiency lighting systems, including LED fixtures and intelligent lighting controls, were designed to complement the architectural and liturgical elements while reducing energy consumption and maintenance costs. Plumbing systems were designed with water conservation in mind, featuring low-flow fixtures and efficient hot-water distribution to support sustainability goals.
The design also prioritizes indoor environmental quality through proper ventilation, acoustical coordination, and system reliability, ensuring a comfortable and welcoming environment for worship and community activities. Sustainable strategies, including energy-conscious system selection with the installation of a geothermal wellfield to increase durable material integration, help reduce lifecycle costs and support long-term stewardship of resources.
Architecturally, the campus draws inspiration from early Irish monastic settlements, expressed through organic site planning, varied rooflines, and a central courtyard that fosters connection and reflection. Natural materials and traditional detailing reinforce a sense of permanence and heritage, while modern building systems ensure the facility performs efficiently.
Together, the new campus and existing school site create a cohesive, future-focused parish environment—one that balances tradition with innovation through thoughtful MEP design and a strong commitment to sustainability.
Project
New Construction
Location
Elkhorn, Nebraska
Completion Date
2025
Architect
RDG Planning & Design
