Artisan-Crafted Art Deco Doors are Installed at the Hebrew Tabernacle

APRIL 30, 2025

Listed on the National Register for Historic Places, a Cherry & Matz Art Deco building acquired by the Hebrew Tabernacle Congregation of Washington Heights received a new pair of aluminum double doors with cast aluminum and bronze detailing. The synagogue—built in 1931-32 and formerly owned by the Fourth Church of Christ, Scientist—was suffering from deterioration, deferred maintenance and accessibility challenges. A Sacred Sites Grant dispersed by the New York Landmarks Conservancy enabled the congregation to consider the proper restoration of its iconic doors.

Our team at ADP Architects completed an initial feasibility study and proceeded with orchestrating the design, manufacturing and installation of a new set of double doors. We engaged Shape Metalworks to manufacture and install the Hebrew Tabernacle Congregation’s first set of artisan-crafted replacement doors that meticulously honors their spectacular aluminum materiality and bronze ornamentation.

Project Facts:

Sector: Sacred Design

Location: New York, NY

Scope: Historic Preservation

Project Type: Exterior Door Restoration

Status: 1st Phase Completed

Below is a glimpse into the restoration. Our artisan friends at Shape Metalworks lovingly crafted and installed the doors, salvaging and cleaning the bronze ornamentation and thick, cast aluminum elements, as well as fabricating a new frame and jamb.