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Brawer & Hauptman, architects, architect, Philadelphia architects, healthcare architects, synagogue architects, church architects, primary care facility architects, mid-Atlantic, east coasts
Massachusetts Synagogue
This Conservative congregation in western Massachusetts is looking to update its building to make it more secure and accessible. Past renovations included a major update of the sanctuary and an upgrade to the secondary entrance door closest to the parking lot, acknowledging its regular daily use by constructing a more formal stair, ramp, and canopy. Once inside, however, there was no lobby, gathering space outside the social hall, or accessible way to reach the lower level.
This renovation, following a Planning Study and a congregational charrette, creates a welcoming lobby, opens up the stair to the lower level, and provides an elevator. An expanded vestibule and an extension of the existing canopy to cover the ramp improves accessibility and security.
This modest renovation, which will include refreshing the finishes in the lower level classrooms, bathrooms, and multipurpose room, will have a major impact on congregants and visitors.