Herman Coliver Locus Architecture Completes Congregation Rodef Sholom Synagogue in San Rafael, California
In San Rafael, California, Congregation Rodef Sholom has unveiled a new synagogue designed by Herman Coliver Locus Architecture, which replaces an earlier "weighty" brick edifice. The structure, adorned with light stone, is organized in an L-shape around a central courtyard that contains a kitchen, staff offices, a social hall, and a youth lounge. Two sculptural volumes above accommodate the sanctuary and Beit Midrash. The sanctuary, located on the second floor, boasts a vaulted ceiling and expansive windows offering forest views, reflecting congregants' sentiments of connecting with God through nature. The courtyard features a fountain, fire pit, and turf area, with hammered copper triangles on the Torah ark and etched prayers above doorways. Founded in 1969, Herman Coliver Locus Architecture is the firm behind this project. Photography by Richard Barnes.
Key facts
- Herman Coliver Locus Architecture completed a synagogue for Congregation Rodef Sholom in San Rafael, California.
- The new building replaces a previous brick structure described by congregants as "weighty" and "opaque."
- The synagogue is clad in light, sandy stone and has an L-shaped plan around a central courtyard.
- The second-floor sanctuary features a vaulted timber-clad ceiling and a large window overlooking forested hills.
- The design was influenced by congregants' statements that they felt closest to God in nature.
- The Beit Midrash has a slightly curved roof referencing the surrounding hills.
- The courtyard includes a fountain, fire pit, Pardes trees, a small amphitheatre, and a turf area.
- Hammered copper triangles on the Torah ark bear the inscription "Love Thy Neighbour as Thyself."
Entities
Artists
- Robert Herman
- Susie Coliver
- Richard Barnes
Institutions
- Herman Coliver Locus Architecture
- Congregation Rodef Sholom
- Dezeen
Locations
- San Rafael
- California
- United States
- San Francisco
Sources
- Dezeen —