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The historic architecture of empty churches beckon business owners.
According to the New York Times, “across the country, the number of empty churches and other houses of worship is sharply rising, and these structures, often unique architectural gems, have become huge draws for business owners.”
Enter Simone Mayer, Co-Founder, CEO, and Chief Creative Officer of FOH®, a worldwide award-winning foodservice and hospitality manufacturing innovator including brands such as Front of the House® (restaurant products) and room360® (hotel accessories).
Eyeing the abandoned church next door, Ms. Mayer began visualizing a way to restore rather than replace with a blueprint to save the church and create celebrations. Spanning five years and five million dollars (5M) in renovation costs, Sanctuary MiMo opened its doors May 2024.
Working closely with McKenzie Builders, a Miami-based architecture and design firm, Sanctuary MiMo’s dramatic entrance welcomes guests into a stunning gathering area which reveals the grand sanctuary hall with soaring 38-foot cathedral ceilings, neutral backdrops, and access to two outdoor gardens. Versatile VIP studios are perfectly outfitted as greenrooms or private styling suites.
The second-floor mezzanine overlooks the grand hall and includes one of the VIP suites including an ensuite bathroom. Another second level via an additional staircase from the grand hall offers a beautiful meeting, photography, or wellness retreat with soaring ceilings and exposed beams, bathed in natural light.
Adjacent to the grand hall is Sanctuary MiMo’s state-of-the-art culinary exhibition kitchen, including top-tier appliances and food prep stations. An intimate cocktail, private dining, or restaurant pop up flows into one of the large outdoor gardens.
The extensive restoration includes sustainable materials and lighting, deluxe audio-visual capabilities, sound systems and data technology. Multiple guest and vendor entrances create seamless activations and a “wow” factor with every step.