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Journal — Communal

Chabad of Ithaca: Timeless Elegance

Crafting a sanctuary that feels like home: Discover the heart of our latest Chabad House project

January 7, 2026 · 1 min read

Modern conference room with elegant chandeliers.

At Max Design, we believe that a Chabad House is more than just a building—it is a sanctuary, a classroom, and, most importantly, a home. Our latest project focused on stripping away the "institutional" feel of traditional public spaces to create an environment that feels inherently homey, warm, and welcoming.

Designing for Connection

The heart of this design lies in its materiality and light. We moved away from cold, industrial finishes, opting instead for a palette of rich walnut woods, soft creams, and golden accents. * The Shul: By integrating Jerusalem stone with modern, arched backlit bookshelves, we created a space that feels grounded in tradition but open to the future. The unique "raindrop" gold pendant lighting provides a soft, ethereal glow that makes the large room feel intimate and personal.

The Lounge & Candle Station: We utilized residential-style furniture—plush velvet armchairs and warm wood flooring in a herringbone pattern—to invite visitors to linger, talk, and feel at ease. The inclusion of a dedicated candle-lighting station with textured stone and soft task lighting adds a touch of domestic ritual to the communal space.

A Seamless Flow: From the curved architectural ceiling in the lobby to the clean, bright dining hall, every transition was designed to feel intuitive. We wanted every guest to walk through these doors and feel an immediate sense of belonging.

This project is a testament to our belief that when you design with heart, the space becomes a landmark for life.

Modern conference room with elegant chandeliers.
Modern living room with elegant furniture arrangement.
Modern banquet hall with arranged tables.

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