Kerem Shalom

This major renovation and addition provides a larger sanctuary, more social space, and a permanent educational component. The master plan was designed for maximum flexibility and efficiency. Relocating the sanctuary into the addition created a new spiritual space that accommodates between 250 and 600 worshippers. Moveable partitions preserve the intimacy of small gatherings, and easily collapse into storage to accommodate large High Holiday services. The sanctuary's glass walls open to views of the surrounding marshlands, increasing the connection between congregants and the outdoors. An expandable social hall extends into the lobby to serve groups of various sizes. Eight standard classrooms and two large classrooms provide Kerem Shalom's Hebrew School with a permanent home. One of the large classrooms can be bisected to handle small group activities. The synagogue also includes a youth room, an adult ed/board room, an adult library/chapel, children's library nook, and administrative space. A naturally-lit atrium style lobby sits at the heart of the expanded building and ties the religious, social, and educational elements together into a unified whole.

Architect: The Office of Michael Rosenfeld, Inc.