Wilshire Boulevard Temple Resnick Family Campus

Los Angeles, California

Gruen Associates served as the architect and landscape architect for the renovation of WBT’s former University Synagogue—an integral part of the Brentwood community. The project modernized the Resnick facility, enhanced its functionality, and elevated its aesthetic appeal while staying true to the Mid-Century Modern design that is cherished by the congregation. The multi-purpose building includes a range of community spaces—a sanctuary, chapel, classrooms, campus offices, an Early Education school, and event halls. The design team unified the aesthetic around key architectural features, such as the sanctuary’s stained-glass and distinctive circular windows, creating a cohesive design that honors the congregation’s history. Interior spaces were reorganized and upgraded with modern finishes to better meet the community’s evolving needs. Ceremonial experiences are enhanced in the sanctuary and chapel by reworking the entry procession to be more structured while elegant landscaping adds to the sense of formality and ceremony. Outside the sanctuary, a formal memorial garden offers a space for contemplation and reflection. Six triangular columns inscribed with names punctuate the garden’s pathways, which are lined with concrete benches, flowering trees, citrus trees, and vine-covered brick.