Temple Beth Zion Master Plan & Renovation

Location
Buffalo, NY, USA
Year Completed
2005
Building Type
Renovation/Addition
Size
4,000 sq. ft.
Cost
N/A
Client
Temple Beth Zion

Temple Beth Zion, constructed circa 1967, was designed by the New York City firm of Harrison & Abramovitz, while the windows are the work of artist Ben Shahn. The Main Sanctuary building is listed on the National Register for Historic Places and its defining characteristic is the encircling walls composed of ten scalloped panels which represent the Ten Commandments.

In 2004, Temple Beth Zion engaged HHL Architects to develop a master plan that examined the future of all spaces in the complex except for the Main Sanctuary and the Chapel. This plan delineated interior alterations to the main entry to the complex, including the Sanctuary, from the parking area. The first phase included construction of a secondary lobby that improves accessibility and clarifies circulation. This new lobby space incorporates the Cofeld Judaic Museum, which houses over 1,000 Judaic artifacts, a library area, and a study space suitable for contemplation and small gatherings. Custom glass display cases house artifacts from the collection. Cove lighting highlights the length of the corridor from the Main Sanctuary to the Chapel.