This new synagogue is located in a dense urban area, so the sanctuary was raised above street level to offer increased tranquility as one ascends the monumental exterior stairway. At the top of the stairs, a wall of large windows illuminates a spacious lobby that provides access to the enclosed sanctuary. "A beautiful, restrained building," agreed the jury, adding kudos to the architect for getting everything just right on a building type that offers so many challenges and pitfalls.