In 2024, we were honored to complete the long-awaited new church for St. Andrew Dung-Lac Catholic Community, a vibrant parish serving the Vietnamese Catholic community in Abbeville, Louisiana.
Originally established as the 122nd parish in the Diocese of Lafayette in 2020, the parish faced construction setbacks when a previous contractor defaulted on the project. E. L. Habetz Builders was brought in to carry the project forward, ensuring that this important house of worship could finally be realized.
The new church, which accommodates 400 parishioners, was officially dedicated on November 24, 2024, with Bishop Douglas Deshotel presiding over the first Mass and dedication.
For us, this project was about more than construction—it was about perseverance, faith, and creating a sacred space that will serve generations to come.
Completed in 2018, the restoration of St. Peter Roman Catholic Church in Carencro, Louisiana remains one of our most meaningful projects. In partnership with Corne Lemaire Group and through the use of Historic Tax Credits, we carefully preserved this landmark’s architectural details while upgrading essential systems. From interior craftsmanship to exterior repairs — including the iconic steeple — every step was about honoring the past while preparing this church to serve generations to come.
In 2007, E. L. Habetz Builders proudly led the restoration of the historic Grand Opera House of the South in Crowley, Louisiana — a treasured landmark originally built in 1901.
In collaboration with Donald J. Breaux Architects, the century-old opera house was transformed using innovative construction methods that preserved its historic character while meeting modern needs. The project included new plumbing, HVAC, electrical, and fire suppression systems; structural reinforcement of the stage area with new steel columns; and a full reconfiguration of the auditorium to provide accessible seating and room for 366 guests.
To support performers and operations, we also constructed a two-story, 3,200-square-foot addition at the rear of the building, housing dressing rooms, prop space, a freight elevator, and mechanical controls. The lobby was thoughtfully reimagined with a museum space, offices, restrooms, and a passenger elevator — blending functionality with preservation.
Today the Opera House stands as both an architectural gem and a cultural cornerstone, hosting world-class performances and enriching the community it has served for over a century.
From offices to restaurants to historic restorations, we bring spaces to life that strengthen communities. Tell us about your project today.
Office:
414 East Northern Ave. Crowley, LA 70526
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Email: [email protected]
Hours:
Monday - Thursday:
8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday: 8:00 AM - 3:00 PM
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