congregation beth el, new london, ct

Congregation Beth El, a Conservative congregation located along the Connecticut seashore, required an expanded and rejuvenated facility to accommodate its growing Solomon Schechter Elementary School. A reorganization assured that the building would function equally well for its various religious, educational, and social activities.

A welcoming and visible main entrance offers barrier-free access to both levels of the building. Religious and social functions are delegated to the upper level while the school functions on the lower level. Expanded lobbies with adjacent reception and administration areas on each floor provide clear organization and passive supervision of the entire facility. A new south-facing terrace located above new classrooms expands the functionality of the social hall and opens it up to warm, natural light. Renovations to the sanctuary increased its intimacy and flexibility to fit everyday use and adapt to the changing needs of the congregation. Underutilized space was reclaimed to minimize the cost of new construction.