Judaism to a new generation

Located in Soho, a neighborhood in Manhattan, the synagogue was founded n 2005 by Chabad-Lubavitch Rabbi Dovi Scheiner and his wife Estiy. Rabbi Scheiner is the brother of Rabbi Pesach Scheiner, leader of the Chabad-Lubavitch of Boulder, Colorado. Occupies an erstwhile fashion boutique of Gucci, between Spring and Broome Streets, the Soho Synagogue looks as much like a funky nightclub as it does a traditional temple.

Designed by israeli-born new york-based designer/architect Dror Benshetrit, the synagogue is the community’s first ever synagogue and represents a fresh vision that translates the inspiration of Judaism to a new generation. Once passing through the corridor, visitors arrive at the top of a steel and glass stairwell opening the view and the path to the under-leveled sanctuary. Art on the walls consists of a series of panels, which the congregants can unhang and fold into chairs or coffee tables. within this space, dror has interpreted his own idea of the prayer benches with comfortable beige low-couches. The sanctuary atmosphere, traditionally created by the light of the stained-glass window, is created with single retro-style edison bulbs.

On September 15, 2009, The SoHo Synagogue signed a 7 year lease for the ground floor. It is set on reintroducing orthodox Judaism to the downtown scene with yoga classes, cocktail parties, and relaxed Friday-night services, according to Fast Co Design.  It kicked off its new location with a fundraiser party “Opening Night in White,” on Sunday night at Capitale on Bowery, followed by a walk to the synagogue where members of the congregation performed. Photographer: John Hall