Construction has begun on renovations at Reform Congregation Keneseth Israel. To meet the needs of an evolving congregation, Keneseth Israel turned to BWA to refresh the synagogue’s 1950s-era sanctuary in a manner respectful of its Modernist aesthetic. In addition to selecting a new color scheme for carpet and reupholstery fabric, the main focus is the construction of a “low bimah” to provide a setting for smaller events in the large main sanctuary. By removing the first few pews, thoughtfully configuring a new low platform that will include an ADA ramp, adding media projection screens, designing new, and cleaning existing, ceremonial furniture, and creatively using energy-efficient lighting and digital controls, BWA is working to achieve a more intimate setting for smaller groups of worshipers while retaining all of the beauty, drama and cherished traditions associated with the ark and broad upper bimah.