1970, Van Biene and Postma. 2727 Michigan St. NE
The dramatic brick and glass building has an arresting sanctuary facade punctuated by a bronze menorah, a row of arched clerestory windows, and a sweeping roofline. Inside, the large prayer hall has an oval wood and concrete ark with doors that feature a brooch-like Tree of Life in enameled metal. The bare brick ark wall provides a backdrop for further sculpture, and the space is flooded with natural light, which is enhanced by the warm, rich oranges and reds of the interior. Lamb Studios manufactured one of the windows. The architects were influenced by a design by New York City synagogue architect Percival Goodman.