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A Modern Parochet for a Contemporary Shul

ByChana Gamliel

A Modern Parochet for a Contemporary Shul

When tradition meets thoughtful design, the result can be nothing short of transformative. That was exactly the case in the creation of a striking new parochet for Beis Tefilla of Inwood – a project that blended refined aesthetics with deep symbolic meaning.

The collaboration began with a clear and ambitious vision: to design a parochet that would reflect the clean, contemporary lines of the synagogue’s Aron Kodesh while maintaining a sense of timeless elegance. The direction called for a sophisticated black-and-white palette for year-round use, complemented by a luminous white design for the Yamim Noraim.

Working alongside a leading interior design team, the process unfolded as a true partnership. Multiple concepts were explored, each pushing the balance between modern minimalism and traditional warmth. Ultimately, it was a subtle yet powerful enhancement that elevated the design a refined interpretation of the Shiv’at Haminim, incorporated as a delicate border motif. This addition infused the piece with layers of meaning, connecting the contemporary visual language to Jewish symbolism.

Another defining feature was the use of gradient embroidery for the lettering, a technique that introduced depth, texture, and a gentle radiance. This attention to detail transformed the parochet from a decorative element into a focal point – one that quietly draws the eye and enhances the spiritual atmosphere of the space.

The final result is a masterful blend of form and meaning: modern yet rooted, elegant yet expressive. More than just a design achievement, the parochet stands as a testament to what can be accomplished when creativity, collaboration, and purpose come together—enhancing not only a space, but the experience of all who enter it.

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Chana Gamliel, originally from Montreal, Canada, serves synagogues and yeshivas worldwide, creating inspired and original embroidered judaica.

After studying Liberal Arts with an emphasis in Art History at Marianopolis College in Montreal, Chana made Aliya to Jerusalem where she pursued high-level rigorous Judaic studies at Baer Miriam Seminary. The intellectual stimulation, topped with depth and beauty of the Jewish religious texts led her to Ofakim College in the Negev where she majored in Graphic Design and received her B.Ed. in Judaic Studies.

Chana held the prestigious jobs of Head Designer at the world-aclaimed Rikma Tova Embroidery (Israel) and Ateres Embroidery (London, UK), for over a decade before going on to create MY PAROCHET by Chana. During the course of her career, she has worked closely with world-acclaimed synagogue architects and interior designers to produce eye-catching parochets, Torah mantels, bima covers and more that never cease to inspire and delight.

Chana’s designs are typically boldly colored, adding a spark of ‘simcha’ –joy- to their beholders. It is evident that Chana’s many years of in-depth Judaic studies greatly influence her designs, enabling her to create parochets overflowing with rich Jewish symbolism and values.

For more information and see her work, check out her website.

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