How Have Styles Changed in the New World? | Who Are Some of the Seminal Jewish Architects in History?
Jewish architecture has evolved over the last three millennia, constantly adapting to meet local environmental differences, but always focused on elements that emphasize community and worship. The earliest recorded Jewish architecture often featured large, stone-built structures, typically rectangular, with eastward facing entrances and ornate stonework. During the Middle Ages, because of fears of persecution or security, synagogues and other meeting places were often undistinguished or plain on the outside, with elaborate interiors. In the 19th century, as Jewish people gradually enjoyed more civil and political rights across Europe and the United States, architectural styles reflected that freedom, often in the form of grand and visually appealing synagogues.
What Are the Distinct Characteristics of Jewish Architecture in Europe?
The first thing to understand is that, as a whole, Jewish architecture on the European continent is much older than American Jewish architecture. As a consequence, most of the representative work comes from historical periods where Jewish people were minorities, often subject to repression. Accordingly, most structures were designed to blend in with surrounding structures. Instead of reflecting a distinctive and unique style, most Jewish architecture in Europe reflects an intent to comport with local style and customs. For that reason, the exterior of most European synagogues may be Gothic, Moorish, Renaissance, Baroque or some other classical style.
Additionally, in some countries in Europe, synagogues were subject to strict laws governing visibility, resulting in many buildings being hidden inside courtyards. Often, however, the interior of the synagogue was highly ornate or stylized.
Other distinctive features of European synagogues include:
- An internal orientation toward Jerusalem—In Europe, synagogues are generally designed so that the Torah Ark (aron qodesh) faces eastward toward Jerusalem
- The women’s section was commonly separated from the main hall and often included latticed windows so that women could hear, but not see
- Synagogues were typically part of a complex that included the rabbi’s residence, a ritual bath, community offices and study halls
How Has Jewish Architecture Evolved in the New World?
The theme of most American Jewish architecture has been freedom and security. Instead of designing and constructing synagogues that were non-descript, American Jewish architects have typically produced designs and structures that are larger and bolder. American synagogues often borrow heavily from distinctly American architectural movements, including Greek Revival, Federal and Romanesque design concepts.
Post-war (WWII) designs have embraced modernism, often focusing on functionality and efficiency over form. American Jewish architects have adapted the “compound” concept often found in European architecture, developing an urban “campus” design, expansive projects that integrate sanctuary space with auditoriums, classrooms and community facilities, such as recreation centers.
Well-Known Jewish Architects in Europe
Eric Mendelsohn, a native of Poland, is considered by many to be the father of modern German expressionism in architecture. He’s known for the Einstein Tower in Potsdam, the Petersdorff Department Store in Breslau and the De La Warr Pavilion in England.
Lipot Baumhorn, who spent most of his career in Hungary, designed more than 20 synagogues, mostly in Eastern Europe, including Hungary, Romania, Serbia, Croatia and Slovenia.
Pierre Chareau, a French architect who fled Paris during the Second World War, introduced many modern innovations to European architecture, including the use of glass blocks and moveable elements. He’s most famous for the Maison de Verre, a private residence that doubled as a gynecologist’s office.
Important American Jewish Architects
Though Canadian born, architect Frank Gehry came with his family to the United States when he was 18 years of age. Gehry’s work spans the globe, from Manhattan to Miami Beach, from California to Spain. He’s best known for the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao, Spain and the fragmented Dancing House in Prague.
Polish-born Daniel Libeskind has designed museums throughout the world, from Denver to Copenhagen. He has also served as the master planner of the World Trade Center site.
Emery Roth, a native of Hungary, is renowned for designing many famous New York City hotels and apartments buildings, including the El Dorado, the Hotel Belleclaire, the San Remo and 300 East 57th Street.
Gutterman’s and Gutterman Warheit—Meeting Your Funeral and Burial Services for More than Six Generations
At Gutterman’s and Gutterman Warheit, with funeral chapels in New York and Florida, we have helped individuals and families in the Jewish community with all matters related to funerals and burials for over 130 years. We are familiar with the distinct practices within each Jewish tradition and can assist with all your needs and concerns, whether it’s the structure of the memorial or the choice of a casket, monument or marker to the details of sitting Shiva or the preparation of a Yahrzeit calendar. We will also work directly with the Chevra Kadisha to ensure compliance with Jewish law in the preparation of the body.
To learn how we can help, send us an email or call us at one of the numbers listed below.
Gutterman’s & Gutterman Warheit — Where Relationships Matter
Family Owned and Operated Since 1892
Rockville Centre: (516)764-9400 | Woodbury: (516)921-5757 | Brooklyn: (718)284-1500
Boca Raton, FL: (561)997-9900 | (800)992-9262