First Missionary Baptist

In the spring of 2023, Paragon 360 received a call from First Missionary Baptist Church in Huntsville, Alabama—at a pivotal moment in their story. Just months earlier, a devastating flood had impacted their sanctuary, forcing an unexpected pause and presenting a critical decision: simply restore what was lost, or reimagine what could be.

What began as a recovery effort quickly became something far greater. Recognizing the opportunity to better serve the next generation, the church chose to move forward with a full-scale renovation of both the sanctuary and adjoining lobby spaces. In 2024, Paragon 360 was engaged to lead the transformation, partnering with Ethridge Builders as general contractor to bring a renewed vision to life.

After more than a year of collaborative design, planning, and vision casting, the vision evolved into a multi-million-dollar transformation encompassing both the sanctuary and adjoining lobby spaces. Every element was considered—from interior design and seating to acoustics and fully integrated audio, video, and lighting systems. The goal was clear: create a modern, multi-generational environment that would engage the next generation while honoring the legacy and history of the space.

To accelerate the timeline without compromising quality, Paragon 360 implemented its signature approach—custom-fabricated, modular scenic and architectural elements. This strategy proved pivotal. Once general construction was complete, Paragon’s team installed these elements in a matter of weeks, compressing the schedule by an estimated 10–12 weeks and allowing the church to return to its space significantly sooner.

Lighting upgrades included a fully integrated LED platform and house lighting system, featuring more than 60 fixtures from PROLIGHTS and CHAUVET, for the platform and over 70 Elation fixtures for house lighting, all controlled by a High End Systems HedgeHog 4X console. Architectural LED lighting from Environmental Lights was seamlessly embedded within scenic elements, while additional lighting positions were engineered using truss systems, motors, and Skjonberg controls—creating a dynamic and adaptable lighting environment.

The video system established a striking visual centerpiece. A 53' x 6.5' ReveLux LED wall spans the rear of the platform, serving as a high-impact virtual backdrop, complemented by two IMAG LED walls (approximately 15' x 8') positioned on either side. All LED displays utilized NOVASTAR processing and were fully integrated into the custom scenic architecture. Capture and broadcast capabilities were enhanced with a combination of Blackmagic Design and Panasonic PTZ cameras, supported by a fully equipped control room featuring Blackmagic Design systems, ReveLux monitoring, Yamaha audio components, ARTISAN furniture, Middle Atlantic racks, Clear-Com communications, and PreSonus studio monitors.

Audio performance was equally elevated. A new L-Acoustics A10 Series line array system anchors the room, paired with mixing solutions from Allen & Heath. Paragon’s signature choir monitoring system was once again deployed, incorporating more than 25 JBL speakers to ensure clarity and coverage. Wireless systems from Shure, choir microphones from Earthworks, and audience microphones from Audio-Technica round out a comprehensive audio ecosystem. Distributed audio and digital signage were also extended into the newly renovated lobby areas, ensuring continuity throughout the facility.

All AVL systems were fully networked using NETGEAR infrastructure, providing a robust and scalable backbone. Complementing these systems, Paragon delivered extensive acoustical treatment, including more than 3,000 linear feet of FabriTRAK and custom-built acoustical ceiling clouds—enhancing both clarity and overall sonic experience.

Paragon 360 led all interior design efforts, ensuring a cohesive integration between architectural, scenic, and technical elements. The platform design is anchored by a series of custom-fabricated, illuminated columns featuring hardwood and laminate finishes with powder-coated metal accents and integrated venting. Faux stone elements frame the side platform entrances, adding texture and visual depth. Modular, illuminated modesty walls and a custom podium—built to the pastor’s specifications—further enhance functionality and aesthetics. A fully modular choir loft was designed with removable end cap walls clad in stacked stone, allowing for future flexibility as needs evolve. At the center of the space, a 9-foot-tall, halo-lit, powder-coated cross serves as a striking focal point above the baptistery—blending symbolism with modern design.

The lobby spaces were equally transformed, featuring a custom metal banding wall grid, matching illuminated columns, and eight acoustical ceiling panels that balance form and function. New pews and modular choir seating, built by Sauder and provided by Paragon, complete the environment with comfort and continuity.

The result of this renovation project is a fully reimagined worship environment that seamlessly blends tradition with innovation. Today, First Missionary Baptist Church is equipped with a space that not only reflects its rich history, but also fuels its mission forward with clarity, excellence, and purpose.

"There's a great deal of pride that comes in being a part of these opening services," said Ryan Cowen, co-owner and president of Paragon 360. "Seeing the transformation that you're able to bring to the space, that really brings a lot to it."

"When you look at the sheer amount of integrated systems that had to be brought together," said Ryan Cowen, co-owner and president of Paragon 360, "the LED walls, the lighting built into the custom fabricated elements, the modular choir loft, all of that had to come together with a high level of integration."