The conversion of the mansion’s screen porch to a chapel and the addition of a main sanctuary space with a rotunda significantly expanded the ensemble of ritual spaces. However, these spaces were disjointed and did not provide a focused path and procession for the user from the rotunda entry to the chapel and main sanctuary.

The vision for the space ties the lobby and corridors as an integral part of the rotunda space. A series of catenary arches were created out of wood lattice. These arches hold historic significance and also serve as illuminated display areas for the numerous synagogue artifacts.

Cyrus Subawalla – Principal Designer

Building type: Religious + Cultural – Chapel/Rotunda

Sustainability/LEED: Entirely new high-performance facade and lighting upgrades

Location: Highland Park, IL

Site Area: 6.5 Acres

Client: North Suburban Synagogue Beth El

Completion Year: Main Lobby Sep 2016, Sager Chapel Feb 2017

Download PDF