Ohio Synagogue Featured in Architectural Book

CENTERBROOK, Conn. -- Park Synagogue East designed by Centerbrook Architects is the subject of an eight-page treatment in a new book titled “Spiritual Architecture: New Religious Buildings” (Loft Publications, 2009), which features religious buildings from around the world. Completed in 2005, the Pepper Pike, Ohio synagogue encompasses a sanctuary, school, library, and community center. It is a satellite campus several miles from its parent building, an existing synagogue that was designed by the renowned expressionist architect Eric Mendelsohn in 1950.

A juror for one of the four design awards that Park Synagogue East garnered described it as “rich in symbolism …The aesthetic reverberates throughout the building. The use of natural lighting is wonderful. The porticos are a welcoming gesture, suggestive of a rabbi’s hands extended in blessing.” A number of sustainable approaches, such as passive solar orientation and durable materials, were incorporated in the design.

The book’s treatment includes a description of the design along with interior and exterior photos, site and architectural plans, and sketches. Mark Simon, FAIA, was the partner in charge, and Edward Keagle, AIA, was the project manager for Centerbrook.