Agudas Achim Synagogue

Inspired by the design of early nomadic tents, Lake|Flato envisioned a light-filled limestone enclosure surrounding a communal tent-like space. The traditional square plan is used to bring the service to the congregant. Light permeates the sanctuary with an ethereal glow. The Texas sun is diffused through a sky-lit oculus in the center of a Star of David 40 feet above, while clerestories allow daylight to slide behind the cantilevered concrete balconies. The ever-changing patterns of light that result wash over and animate the creamy Sisterdale limestone walls.
Photography: Paul Rocheleau