Cherem Arquitectos' Majestic Synagogue: A Harmony of Material and Light

Unveiling the A' Design Award-Winning Religious Building in Mexico

The Synagogue's design inspiration stemmed from the intention to encapsulate all necessary spaces and services within a solid block of marble and steel. The envelope consists of several nested cubic volumes, generating double-height interior spaces. The building's elevation is adorned with noble, exposed material elements such as wood and stone, making them the protagonists of the design.

The Synagogue's unique properties lie in its ensemble of boxes of different material qualities, each serving distinct ritualistic purposes. Whether in its facade or in its detailing, the building represents the intersection of pure material use and the mastery of its resulting combinations. This allows the Synagogue to emerge as a singular, religious architectural element.

The realization of this design was made possible through a steel framework, columns, and concrete platforms that structurally support the building. The main facade climbs 19 meters, lined in onyx along thirty-five long, slender steel beams that run its entire length. During late evenings, the reflected illumination from the stone strips bathes the Temple in a natural, soft, tan light.

The Synagogue's interaction is as thoughtful as its design. The first level houses a large Seuda, with an adjacent garden. The second and third floors are predominantly occupied by the Synagogue, with separate levels for men and women. The fourth floor is Tebila, where ablution rituals take place in an atmosphere of calm and tranquility.

The project, which started in November 2015 and finished a year later, was a collaborative effort. The design team included Abraham Cherem Cherem, Jose Antonio Aguilar Garcia, Maria Elena Martinez Labastida in collaboration with VIDARQ, Jacobo Cherem Ades, Abraham Cherem Dayan, and Abraham Cherem Cassab.

In conclusion, the Magen David Synagogue is more than just a religious building. It is a testament to the power of design and architecture in creating spaces that not only serve a purpose but also inspire awe and reverence. The Synagogue is a testament to Cherem Arquitectos' ability to create a functional and beautiful entity, a singular, religious architectural element that stands as a beacon of faith and architectural prowess.