As part of the New York Landmarks Conservancy’s 2024 Sacred Sites Open House weekend, DOCOMOMO US/New York Tri-State is co-sponsoring a tour of Temple Israel (1961-1964), a well preserved Modern synagogue on Staten Island, designed by Percival Goodman, FAIA. 

America’s most prolific architect of Modern synagogues, Percival Goodman (1904–1989) designed more than fifty synagogues built across the country from 1947 to 1979. A native New Yorker, Goodman was an architect, planner, writer, and educator who taught at the Columbia University School of Architecture from 1943 to 1972.

Temple Israel Reform Congregation in the West New Brighton section of Staten Island exemplifies Goodman’s approach to synagogue design. Inside you will see exposed construction materials: concrete block walls, massive innovative glue-laminated wood beams, and structural cedar wood plank ceilings. Influenced by Le Corbusier’s Ronchamp Chapel, Goodman pierced the walls with irregularly placed windows and set narrow bands of glass to separate the walls from the ceiling creating the effect of a floating roof.

The New York Landmarks Conservancy’s 2024 Sacred Sites Open House takes place statewide, May 18–19. This year’s theme is “Welcoming our Neighbors.” Participating congregations will showcase their buildings and histories through guided tours, lectures, and musical performances, and showcase the cultural and social service programs they offer. It’s a chance for visitors to explore the magnificent architectural history of New York State.

This tour will be led by long-time congregant and architect Ann Targownik. The congregation’s president and other leaders will be present. Light refreshments will be served.

Saturday, May 18, 4:00 – 6:00 pm
Temple Israel Congregation of Staten Island
315 Forest Avenue.
Staten Island, NY
Free. Advance registration required. 

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