Study Centre, interpretation and digital catalogue

Garnethill Synagogue, Glasgow


BeforeAfter

The Scottish Jewish Heritage Centre appointed Abound to assist them in the development of their National Lottery Heritage Fund application. We are pleased to say that this was successful, and Abound were able to continue our work through to implementation of the proposed scheme.

Our multifaceted brief included:

  • welcome and introductory interpretation at entrances to the building
  • creation of a new study centre, including furniture, AV hardware and learning resources to support school visits
  • fit-out of a function room, including furniture, AV hardware, hearing loop, and a flexible display system
  • a World War II timeline
  • a digital resource for researchers and visitors to explore the Archive’s 2,000+ documents and retrieve scans of a historic Glasgow-based newspaper, The Jewish Echo
  • space layout and supply of office furniture
  • input into the design of a new Kosher kitchen, in association with the project architects.

Our designs were context specific. The magnificent and richly decorated upper level of the building demanded solutions that were sensitive to their surroundings.  Meanwhile, the Heritage Centre, accommodated on the lower level, is made up of more utilitarian spaces. Here we focused on building on the existing house style and making the interventions fit for purpose.