consideration of material capabilities and the builder ’ s ease of construction .
One of the most successful elements of the new design was very much to connect the inside spaces with the outside environment . Glass replaced solid walls , clerestory windows allowed light to flood through previously closed ceilings , closed arches were liberated and are now striking glass archways that act as a focal point . Replacing the solid wall behind the The Sacred Arc with glass allowed congregants to be
more in touch with the seasons and the time of day - elements that are incorporated in the Jewish prayer services . Now rather than congregants being isolated within four walls , out of touch with nature and the environment , all the elements were now experienced during prayer .
Excvations were also undertaken to create a traditional underground Mikvah – a ritual bath used by Jewish women . The split level design is based on the ancient designs for a Mikvah which was traditionally a subterranean space .
Linksfield Shul 61