Restoring our Kadavumbhagam Synagogue, Mattancherry

Project idea

Restoration of the historic Kadavumbhagam Synagogue in Mattancherry.

Project description

The Kadavumbhagam Synagogue (also known as the Black Jew Synagogue), currently lying unused, presents an ideal opportunity for adaptive reuse. Rather than allowing this historic structure to remain abandoned, my proposal aims to revive it as a cultural café that celebrates its architectural legacy while meeting a contemporary public need.

Technical information

The adaptive reuse strategy follows a balance between preservation and intervention.
~ Retain external facade, existing load-bearing walls, timber beams, and characteristic arched openings
~ Add light-weight steel structures for mezzanine cafe seating and modern amenities
~ Use the central hall for dining, side wings for display and service, and rear space as kitchen/storage.
~ Introduce soft lighting, wooden furniture, and earthy finishes that complement the historic texture.
~ Create an open entry forecourt encouraging pedestrian flow from Jew Town street into the cafe.
The design maintains visual transparency and ensures that any new addition can be removed in the future without harming the original building.

Documentation

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