The 2,000 sf sanctuary at Temple Beth Abraham was an uninspiring space with gray concrete block walls, a dark wood ceiling, beams, and columns, dated furnishings, paltry lighting and little outside awareness.  

The design solution was transformative. Long, narrow windows were punched into the west wall of the sanctuary to supplement daylight from the side wall clerestories.  These windows give congregants the opportunity to commune with nature during the day.  At night, the lights of the Tappan Zee Bridge are visible in the distance. The interior was refinished with cherry paneling and a white-washed wood ceiling.  Lighting, sound systems, and acoustics were dramatically improved; motorized screens, projectors, cameras, and a T-loop were added.

The bimah--the elevated platform for the clergy--was reconstructed.  The new bimah is lower and is handicapped accessible. It projects into the sanctuary and is surrounded by angled pews which reinforce the sense of community. The sanctuary is now a calm, intimate and inviting space that truly reflects the values and mission of Temple Beth Abraham.