The Chapel on Sycamore

Located in the heart of downtown Decatur, The Chapel on Sycamore is a stunning Romanesque Revival structure originally designed by renowned architect G.L. Norrman. Unlike active houses of worship, this location is a dedicated event and production venue, offering filmmakers a “clean slate” without religious signage restrictions or scheduling conflicts with congregations.

The exterior is defined by its heavy Stone Mountain granite masonry, slate roof, and a picturesque, squat bell tower that evokes a storybook or European village aesthetic. A charming, landscaped courtyard and breezeway connect the chapel to the adjacent Sycamore Building, providing excellent outdoor staging or reception options.

Inside, the 5,500-square-foot main sanctuary is characterized by soaring arched wood-beam ceilings and gleaming hardwood floors. The visual centerpiece is a massive, original Tiffany stained glass window (the Eliza Pearce Memorial) which provides dramatic, colorful natural light. The space features original roll-down wooden divider doors—a rare mechanical feature from the turn of the century—allowing the space to be sectioned off or revealed dramatically.

Key Visual Features

• Main Sanctuary: High-vaulted wooden ceilings with exposed beams and dark wood wainscoting.
• Stained Glass: Authentic Tiffany stained glass window situated behind the pulpit area; additional stained glass flanks the side walls.
• Organ: Massive, original pipe organ pipes (aesthetic backdrop).
• Roll-Down Doors: Historic wooden roll-down partitions that separate the narthex/foyer from the main sanctuary.
• Exterior: Asymmetrical, rustic stone façade (granite) with walled buttresses and a Romanesque arched entry.
• Grounds: Private, manicured courtyard and garden area suitable for outdoor scenes or craft services.
• Light: High-quality natural light filtration through colored glass; dimmable house lighting available.

Production Highlights

• Capacity: ~240 seated / ~400 standing.
• Load-In: Easy load-in access via the rear parking lot with ramp access (ground level).
• Power: Updated electrical system with ample power supply for standard production lighting packages (circuitry map available upon request).
• Sound: Venue is equipped with modern AV infrastructure; acoustics are bright and resonant (typical of stone/wood chapels).
• Back of House: Includes two (2) private getting-ready suites/green rooms for talent holding or wardrobe.
• Parking: Private lot with approximately 25 spaces available for tech scouts/essential crew; ample nearby municipal parking and street parking for base camp overflow.
• Accessibility: Fully ADA compliant (wheelchair accessible).
• Permitting: Located within the City of Decatur (film-friendly municipality).