Congregation Shaar Hashomayim Synagogue Landscape Setting & Accessibility

As the Landscape Architects for Congregation Shaar Hashomayim, RobitailleCurtis prepared a multi-phase masterplan for the entire Shaar campus to make the site more accessible, functional, and beautiful. Phase 1 completed in 2019. Phase 2 is currently ongoing.

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The entrance to the original 1920’s wing was redesigned to be more gracious and welcoming for the many daily visitors and employees of the Shaar who come and go on through this busy entrance on Kensington Avenue.

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RC’s design was intended to be complimentary to the original architecture and it was detailed in a manner that appears as if the entrance might have always existed this way.  RC enlarged the main entry stair and walkway, provided a graciously curved and gently sloped accessible wheel chair ramp, as well as a more generous landing at the top of the stairs and ramp that is more appropriate to the scale and prominence of this civic address.

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RC used St. Mark stone for the stair and curved ramp, bronze for the handrails, and teak for a new exterior bench.  These time honored materials will age gracefully with the existing building, and provide for safer equal access to all who visit the Shaar.

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As part of the second phase, we rebuilt the failing, inaccessible and deteriorating entry terrace. By doing so, we allowed for universal accessibility with a streamlined design and refined detailing. We also created a lush, welcoming landscape context for the large institutional building. The design incorporates existing light fixtures, the menorah, and the original paving pattern to honor the plaza’s heritage. A newly planted area with built-in benches near the main entry introduces both comfort and beauty. Despite navigating complex municipal regulations and a climate necessitating robust security measure, the project’s greatest achievement lies in its refined aesthetic and understated simplicity.

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Team:

Sophie Robitaille  Partner, CSLA, ASLA, AAPQ

Teressa Peill  Landscape Architect, AAPQ

Kim Chayer  Architect, OAQ

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Photography © Nanne Springer