HONOR AWARD FOR RELIGIOUS ARCHITECTURE : RENOVATION
Isaac Agree Downtown Synagogue Detroit , MI Neumann / Smith Architecture
As Detroit ’ s only free-standing synagogue , the Isaac Agree Downtown Synagogue welcomes a diverse group of individuals in the Metro Detroit Jewish community . The revitalized synagogue provides an inclusive space for events , work , and worship . By reinventing how the spaces function , the new design welcomes a multigenerational congregation while honoring the history of the building . It harnesses the building ’ s unique , triangular shape by creating intimate spaces on the narrow north side and gathering spaces on the south side .
Previously , the synagogue contained unusable space on the third and fourth floors and had no ADA access to the secondfloor sanctuary . Coworking , chapel , and event spaces now span all four floors , with an added commercial kitchen , genderneutral restrooms , conference rooms , and space for community-focused gatherings . A new elevator and ADA-compliant amenities improve accessibility .
The redesigned front entry replaced the original brick façade with windows . Interior wood paneling was removed to display painted brick and the raw materials of the ceiling . The lobby now provides an inviting community hub featuring local art and an array of seating . The second-floor sanctuary features original floor-to-ceiling stained glass , bathing the space in color . The north side houses an office for the Rabbi and a children ’ s space that includes low tables , toys , books , and window-ledge seating . The third floor boasts hoteling desks and two conference rooms , while the fourth floor hosts community gatherings , offering reconfigurable space and AV equipment .
JURY COMMENTS : The use of color in this project is stunning in making it a memorable place — establishing a community within the urban context . It commands a presence on the street through the adaptation of the storefront element . It contributes to a vital pedestrian experience .
Jason Keen
HONOR AWARD FOR RELIGIOUS ARCHITECTURE : RENOVATION
Harvard Divinity School , Swartz Hall Cambridge , MA Annum Architects , Inc .
Harvard Divinity School ’ s mission is to educate students for intellectual leadership , professional service , and ministry . The 1911 structure was originally shaped by a turn-of-the-century curriculum centered on Western religion and education , but the school has evolved to encompass more than 45 faith traditions with an international , diverse student population .
The project renews and expands the historic building , creating an inviting , accessible front door for the school and campus . The revitalized building and addition welcome new audiences and provide needed assembly , instructional , and communal spaces . A 200-seat multipurpose room accommodates large events and colloquia , while a cafe provides new community and program space . The historic chapel was restored to provide greater access and inclusiveness . The school ’ s special library collections were consolidated , freeing space to create three new levels of classrooms , workplaces , and a multifaith worship space and ablution room .
The design reflects the school ’ s commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship . Awarded LEED Platinum and designed to achieve approximately 38 % annual energy savings , the building envelope was completely rehabilitated , internally insulated , and retrofitted with high-performance windows . Healthy materials were prioritized while excluding chemicals that pollute the environment and harm construction and factory workers . New landscape includes the planting of more than 50 trees in a campus green . The rejuvenated site and building create a dynamic and inclusive new campus gateway and a spiritual , academic , and social center .
JURY COMMENTS : The design insertions are transformative while honoring the existing spaces and architectural vocabulary . Each insertion performs several design duties . The detailing is elegant , welcoming , and spiritual . It excels in its design restraint .
Chuck Choi
24 SACRED PLACES • SUMMER 2024