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There must’ve been a dose of the divine in the Deltona Corporation when it set about conceptualizing Marco Island as an ideal community some four decades ago. Quite simply, there was no skimping on the faith factor. The ample acreage historically donated to every religious denomination on the island — as prescribed by the founding Mackle Brothers — continues to contribute to the enviable quality of life enjoyed by its citizenry.

One such denomination delighting in its current renaissance while reflecting on its roots is First Baptist Church of Marco Island (FBC). Not to worry, the 1450 Winterberry Drive address is still the same, but within the past year the church campus has undergone a stunning transformation thanks to the success of a multi-million dollar capital campaign and the visionary leadership of its senior pastor, Timothy Neptune.

Upon entering the new First Baptist you’d best check any archetypal expectations at the door. In fact, there’s barely a trace of the transcendent as we know it. Instead, get ready for the sustained (slightly surreal) effects of an interior ambience with modernist leanings. Created by the Naples’ based Wegman Design Group under the aesthetic eagle eye of its principal, Lori Wegman — whose work you probably know but don’t realize it given the dynamic breadth of her professional portfolio both locally and nationally — the 30,000 sq. feet of multi-generational space unfolds into state-of-the-art-everything.

The grand entrance foyer offers high visibility and accessibility to the various venues sponsored by the church. Everything flows. For example, toward the right is an extended marble and mahogany counter of standing height designed to deliver administrative efficiencies with particular regard to welcoming churchgoers and informing them about the plethora of programs available.

Beyond the counter is an expansive glass wall and door showcasing innovation extraordinaire: a chic café. Dubbed “The Well,” its proximity aims to solidify socialization while satisfying the slightest gastric inclination — everything from a cappuccino craving to an ice-cold smoothie is readily available. The setting is done in brightly colored tiles and offers a refreshing contrast to the monochromatic tones that prevail throughout the environment. (Later this summer, when phase II of the project gets underway, a bookstore and library will further complement the café.)

In addition, a steel spiral staircase along the east wall allows an alternative ascent to the second level where an abundance of offices and facilities await, including a convertible conference room, full kitchen and a Teen Room equipped with a sound stage and acoustics for jamming sessions. “It’s indestructible,” Wegman deadpanned.

Most prominent to the grand foyer, however, is what’s located straight ahead: sets of double doors (done in dark cherry) open into Worship Hall, a theatre-like setting discreetly outfitted with every conceivable computerized technology known to man. With a seating capacity of over 400, everything is oriented to the sanctuary where a large, luminous silver cross centers the stage in direct alignment to the glass-enclosed booth located at the rear of the assembly. And no one could be happier at the helm of the space-age instrument panel than church member Shawn Hurtley who also serves as FBC’s Director of Technology and Facilities.

“I feel like a kid in a candy store,” Hurtley confessed, while demonstrating the dramatics of lighting and acoustical augmentation readily achievable by a mere flick of a switch or a click.

Taking a step back, one cannot help but marvel at the manifestation of such architectural and aesthetic achievement; that the quaint characteristics of “church” have been surpassed by a modern milieu of such magnitude. But for the Wegman Design Group (WDG), such feats of aesthetic genius are actually quite commonplace.

“When we were recommended to the project (referring to general contractor DeAngelis Diamond Construction and architect Prabhat Kaikini, both of Naples), we were told that Pastor Tim was a leader. Visionary. Charismatic — and that he knew what he wanted to achieve,” Lori Wegman explained. “We definitely wanted to be interviewed.

“When we met with him, his objectives were clear. It needed a strategic plan based on community — not just church. A multi-generational community in a multi-generational space.”

“While still making it look good,” Pastor Neptune interjected.

Following their first meeting, WDG set to work producing a plan and a proposal. Within a few days it was ready for presentation and accepted with the clear understanding that the projected time frame of 15 months would require an aggressive schedule.

Wegman knew she wanted to appoint her senior designer Robert Young as the project’s lead. A graduate of Michigan State University with degrees in Horticulture, Human Environment and Design, Young brings an eclectic academic discipline to the task of designing functioning interiors. “It’s rare to find someone in this market with his background,” Wegman commented.

Armed with his penchant for efficiency and execution, Young is not without sensitivities. His hand can be quietly traced to the gallery of stained glass windows that once graced the old church and now adorn the east entry of the new structure. The salvaged series, shadow boxed in white crown molding, depict the iconic imagery of Jesus as the Good Shepherd while recalling the early roots of FBC in the mid-late 1970s under the dynamic leadership of then Pastor Jack Hughen.

Over the decades, FBC has maintained the Mackle Brothers’ belief that the development of the spiritual side of community life is of equal importance to the economic side. This confidence, thankfully, continues to hold promise in its present pastor, Tim Neptune. Since his arrival from Ohio with his young family of four in June of ‘03 in response to what he describes as a “calling to come here,” his youthful vigor and vision are being made manifest.

One can only imagine the divine delight the Mackles must be enjoying from their aerial Island view.

To learn more about First Baptist Church of Marco Island, its Learning Center and its ongoing programs, call 94.1646 or visit www.fbcmarco.com.

About the Wegman Design Group

You might not think you know them, but in fact their invisibility is in their visibility. Sound like a riddle? If you’ve ever enjoyed, say, the Third Street Naples’ bistro Handsome Harry’s (for which they recently were honored with a Forum Award by the Florida Chapter of the prestigious International Interior Design Association), then you know WDG. Or perhaps you’ve purchased eyeglasses at Lens Crafters, or attended services at Moorings Presbyterian Church or visited an elder at the Moorings Park Assisted Living or dined at the swishy Metropolitan Club in Cincinnati? If so, you’ve encountered the Wegman aesthetic.

In short, their mission is about creating design solutions across the spectrum that make a space not just livable, but likeable. Even lovable!

Visit them at www.wegmandesigngroup.com.