Designing a New Synagogue in Jerusalem – Inspired by Chachmei Lublin

The famous Chachmei Lublin Yeshiva in Europe, founded by Rabbi Meir Shapiro—the creator of the Daf Yomi study cycle—is well known. One of its most distinguished students, Rabbi Wosner, later re-established the yeshiva in Israel, forming a thriving community.

In one of Jerusalem’s newest neighborhoods, a beautiful new synagogue complex was planned, including a mikvah, study halls, and a grand Beit Midrash for the growing community.

The biggest architectural challenge was that the building was a lightweight structure, positioned below street level, and designed with angled slopes—which gave an impermanent feel. The goal was to make it visually striking from the street, ensuring it felt like a permanent and iconic building.

To achieve this, I incorporated elements inspired by the original Chachmei Lublin Yeshiva, blended with Jerusalem stone for an authentic and timeless look. The angled roofline was cleverly hidden using elevated façade elements, creating a harmonious and stately exterior.

Inside, the main Beit Midrash was designed for both grandeur and warmth. The lower half of the walls features rich wood paneling, integrating seamlessly with bookshelves and benches, making the space feel intimate yet grand. The ceiling was designed in layered sections, maximizing acoustics while maintaining an open, lofty atmosphere.

The Aron Kodesh was crafted with historical elements reflecting the European yeshiva’s architecture, including built-in podiums for the Rabbi and Chazzan. Three small steps lead up to a detailed, ornate structure that stands as a focal point of the room.

The Ezrat Nashim (women’s section) was also designed as a prestigious learning hall, with comfortable seating and abundant natural and artificial lighting, ensuring a bright, inspiring space for extended study sessions.

Beyond the prayer hall, the synagogue includes a coffee room with dual countertops, a private study for the Rabbi—lined with wood and bookshelves to reflect a classic Beit Midrash feel, and a fully equipped neighborhood mikvah with a spacious dressing area and three immersion pools.

Here are some more images and insights from this exciting project!
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Avi Asher | Architecture & Interior Design for Synagogues