Temple Emanuel Renovation and Addition

The renovation of Temple Emanuel, a 70-year-old reform Jewish synagogue, seeks to honor the congregation’s rich history while modernizing the facility for future generations. The design balances the preservation of architectural heritage with improved functionality, community engagement, accessibility, and staff offices.

Temple Emanuel is one of only four synagogues in the United States designed by Eric Mendelsohn. There have been smaller additions to the original structure over the last 70 years; however, this addition and renovation changes the way in which one enters the building and connects with the community. The addition was designed with respect for the building’s significant history while establishing a complementary yet subtly distinctive aesthetic.

Key design objectives included enhancing the arrival experience through a welcoming and fully accessible entrance, creating social space to connect the congregation before and after events, and updating specific areas of the building. Daylighting, informal and formal meeting spaces, improved office layout, safety, updated restrooms, modern furniture, archive storage, interior finish updates, a new roof, and improved building systems were all addressed in the project.

The renovation and addition project supports Temple Emanuel as it remains a vibrant Jewish cultural center in West Michigan while respecting its architectural legacy.

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