BOSTON – RODE Architects announces the completion of a new shul for the Congregation Kadimah-Toras Moshe in Brighton, the second phase of its three-phase construction project in partnership with Brookline Development Corp.
The Congregation is now occupying their new structure, a 9,300-square foot synagogue that joins the previously completed Daughters of Israelmikvah at 103 Washington Street. The final phase of the project will complete a seven-story apartment building and below-grade parking structure that will connect all three buildings with a landscaped courtyard.
Brookline Development Corp has been a staple in the community for more than 30 years, consistently maintaining top-grade properties in the area. In order to make the mikvah and synagogue renovations become reality, Brookline Development Corp contributed substantial funds – several million dollars – towards the development of the properties.
“We’re thrilled for this neighborhood community to take occupancy at the synagogue,” said Jeff Feuerman, President of Brookline Development Corporation. “By moving forward with these projects, two 80-year old religious organizations were able to be revived, and upon completion of the final piece there will be a proper campus for the community to fully enjoy and appreciate.”
Throughout the duration of the project the RODE and Brookline Development Corp teams took great care to enable the continued operation of the religious services during construction. This was done through building the new mikvah on the rear 103 parcel in phase one, allowing for the demolition of the existing mikvah; the new synagogue was then built in the place of the former mikvah.
The synagogue was built out of steel and concrete, which serves to not only create a solid and sustainable foundation, but to also keep the noise level low, in respect to the religious practice and ceremony. Additional design elements include materials that evoke the hue and veining of Jerusalem limestone and arched detailing at the main entry doors pay homage to the former synagogue’s iron entry gate. The shul contains a new sanctuary space, while the social hall offers views out to a landscaped side yard through a row of tall windows. The synagogue also has classroom, library, meeting and administrative spaces which occupy the lower level and are connected to the first floor by a bright and spacious connecting stair. RODE Architects collaborated with the congregation’s interior designer, Shira Lion of Stein Lion Design, on the materials and finishes of the interior spaces.
“We are proud of the design and work that went into creating the synagogue, with an updated space that reflects the history and tradition of the congregation,” said Eric Robinson, Principal and Co-founder of RODE. “The project is set to revitalize two-long standing Jewish institutions and we are thrilled to bring it to completion.”
With the synagogue moving into occupancy, RODE and Brookline Development Corp look forward to breaking ground on the multi-unit apartment building, which will bring 70 residential units to Washington Street.
Amid the completion of Congregation Kadimah-Toras Moshe, RODE is currently working on an additional five projects comprising several hundred units of residential development in the Brighton neighborhood, and has nearly a dozen active projects with non-profit developers and institutions across the Boston region.
