Between Sacred & Material

Timber shelving lines the entrance outside the prayer hall. The enclosed passage creates a transition to the ceremonial space beyond.

The tivah was carved from blocks of white Thassos marble brought from Greece. Its central axis established the room’s symmetry and the proportions of the surrounding elements.

The ceiling curves upwards in two planes, lifting the eye above the prayer hall.

One mashrabiya pattern continues across ceilings, the women’s gallery balustrade and the ark’s ornament. Repetition connects the large composition to the smallest detail.

The women’s gallery shares the ceiling language, materials and level of detail of the main hall. Its elevated viewpoint reveals the relationship between ark, tivah and congregation.

Openings respond to the path of the sun to bring daylight into the room while limiting direct glare at the seating. Artificial light balances the gold ornament with the requirements of reading and prayer.

Seats facing east and seats facing the tivah create different relationships within the congregation. Dedicated guest rows support hospitality, while the seating layout responds to daily congregational use.