The architecture of The Great-Park Synagogue is based on that of its predecessor: The Great Synagogue on Walmarans St., which in turn was modeled after the Hagia Sophia in Istanbul Turkey. The Great Synagogue was built on a much smaller scale, but it maintained the same proportions and trademarks, most notably the great dome and magnificent arches.

As the successor to the Great Synagogue the Great-Park Synagogue maintains much of its original character. With its tall dome and stately columns, the atmosphere of the old Walmarans resonates within the structure and its language is apparent throughout.
 
But the Great-Park Synagogue is not a mere replica of its predecessor. Julian Michaels, one of the architects commissioned to design the Shul, explains that while he studied the old Synagogue incorporating many of its features, he did not replicate it. The Shul exudes an atmosphere of youthfulness and vibrancy that is all its own. The modern interior contrasted by the original Great Synagogue furniture evokes a unique feeling of warmth and liveliness.
http://greatpark.co.za/userfiles/image/shulfinal.jpgThe hexagonal shape of the Magen David is the underlying theme of the structure and is the geometric shape upon which the synagogue is built. Each of the columns within the Shul is placed at one of the six points of the Magen David. This shape is a recurring theme throughout the Great-Park campus.
 
One of the unique features of the Shul is the precise positioning of the ark. In South Africa the ark is traditionally north facing, in the direction of Jerusalem. When the ark was installed the exact co-ordinances of the Temple Mount were employed ensuring its exact alignment with the holy site.
 
The magnificent dome towering over the sanctuary is made of copper and sits upon a circle of stained glass windows. Its towering 22 meter span is one of the most recognizable features of the Great Park Synagogue.
 
In addition to the furniture imported from the old Great Synagogue, new pieces designed specifically to accommodate the needs of the new Shul. For example, a new modernly designed bimah was placed in the middle of the Shul and is used by the chazzan on Shabbat day. This provides a more intimate feel and greater congregational participation in the services.
 
The Great Park Synagogue is further enhanced http://greatpark.co.za/userfiles/Untitled.jpgby the magnificent stained glass windows that now adorn its dome. Famed South African artist Judith Mason provided her insight, depth and acclaimed creativity to design these windows.
 
The themes depicted reflect the power of prayer.The human being is a composite of eavenand earth, soul and body, spiritual and physical, inspiration and desire. The ladder of Jacob’s dream symbolizes our ability to stretch beyond the earth in which we feel entrenched, and to aspire heavenwards. The journey of prayer is one of systematic growth through attainable rungs that allows us to reach towards the infinite.
 
The elements of fire, water, air and earth reflect the construct of the entire universe of G-d, as well as the character traits of our inner being. The power of prayer permeates the privacy of self, as it illuminates and elevates the cosmic forces of creation. The house of prayer also addresses all the seasons of life – the sun of day and the moon of night.
 
The Great-Park Surveying Committee comprised Leon Lotzoff, Ernest Liebewitz and Henry Stock. The professional teams of architects commissioned were Jullian Michaels Architects, MV3 Architects, and Manfred Hermer, Grosskopf and Lombart Architects, with construction by Tiber Bonvec Construction.
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