Temple Jeremiah
Northfield, Illinois
7,500 sf addition
Eckenhoff Saunders developed a phased master plan for Temple Jeremiah that included a major overhaul of the building’s interior, upgrades to meet life safety and code requirements, and a reorganization of the site to improve traffic management.
During Phase I, the site was redesigned to improve traffic circulation, increase parking capacity to 300 vehicles, and provide on-site stormwater detention. Building systems were upgraded to increase energy efficiency and meet code, life safety, and ADA standards.
The interior was completely rebuilt through a series of “micro-phases” that never took more than two classrooms out of service at one time. Administrative offices for the synagogue and school were relocated to provide direct supervision of both primary entrances. A 7,500 sf addition created a new school entrance with an elevator and five preschool classrooms. The addition was structured to accommodate straightforward vertical expansion as future program growth requires additional space.
Phase II, completed in 2012, included a comprehensive renovation of the sanctuary and social hall. Eckenhoff Saunders worked closely with the Jeremiah Planning Committee and the project’s donor to incorporate stone and millwork finishes, along with acoustical, lighting, and audiovisual upgrades throughout the sanctuary, social hall, and stage areas.