ATTACHMENT D
(HSPB Resolution, Report, Minutes)
RESOLUTION NO. HSPB #173A RESOLUTION OF THE HISTORIC SITE PRESERVATION BOARD OF THE CITY OF PALM SPRINGS, CALIFORNIA, RECOMMENDING THAT THE CITY COUNCIL DESIGNATE THE TEMPLE ISAIAH LOCATED AT 332 WEST ALEJO ROAD, A CLASS 1 HISTORIC SITE (HSPB #173), APN #505-313-007. THE HISTORIC SITE PRESERVATION BOARD (“HSPB”) FINDS AND DETERMINES AS FOLLOWS: A. WHEREAS, Chapter 8.05 of the Palm Springs Municipal Code allows for the designation of historic sites and districts; and B. WHEREAS, The City of Palm Springs filed an application pursuant to Article III, Section 8.05.070 (Procedure and Criteria for Designation of Historic Resources) of the Palm Springs Municipal Code requesting historic resources designation for the “Temple Isaiah” located at 332 W. Alejo Road. The application included a historic resources report (“the report”). C. WHEREAS, on May 4, 2026, members of the Historic Site Preservation Board (HSPB) conducted site inspections of the proposed historic resource, accompanied by City staff; and D. WHEREAS, on May 5, 2026, a noticed public hearing of the Palm Springs Historic Site Preservation Board (“HSPB”) to consider Case HSPB #173 was held in accordance with applicable law; and E. WHEREAS, the HSPB carefully reviewed and considered all of the evidence presented in connection with the hearing on the project, including, but not limited to, the staff report and all written and oral testimony presented. THE HISTORIC SITE PRESERVATION BOARD OF THE CITY OF PALM SPRINGS RESOLVES: SECTION 1: FINDINGS – PART “1”, CRITERIA FOR HISTORIC RESOURCES. Evaluation of the Application. Pursuant to Municipal Code Section 8.05.070 (C,1,a), the HSPB shall evaluate the application and make findings in conformance with the following criteria:1. Criteria for the Designation of Class 1 Historic Resources. A site, structure, building or object may be designated as a Class 1 historic resource, provided both of the following findings (“a” and “b”) are met:
Resolution No. HSPB #173 – Temple Isaiah Page 2 of 9 May 5, 2026
a. The site, structure, building, or object exhibits exceptional historic significance and meets one or more of the criteria listed below: The following is an analysis of the Criterion and integrity findings for historic designation.(Criterion i) The resource is associated with events that have made a meaningful contribution to the nation, state or community; Constructed as a place of worship for the Jewish community in Palm Springs, Temple Isaiah has long served as a center for religious events, ceremonies, and activities. While the report specifically identifies a fundraising concert featuring Frank Sinatra that generated $4 million for the 1980s expansion, this event alone does not independently satisfy this Criterion. Beyond its religious function, Temple Isaiah developed into an important cultural center within the community by opening its doors as a venue for concerts, community events, and early education initiatives. The temple also demonstrated an early commitment to the arts through the commissioning and display of art throughout the site. For more than seventy-five years, Temple Isaiah has maintained a continuous presence as a religious, social, educational, and cultural center for Palm Springs. Its longstanding commitment to the local community as a gathering place reflects a broader pattern of events that has contributed in a meaningful manner to the cultural identity of the city. The site qualifies under Criterion i. (Criterion ii) The resource is associated with the lives of persons who made a meaningful contribution to national, state or local history; Temple Isaiah contains several notable works of art that were commissioned specifically for this site, including pieces by Yaacov Agam, Erik Ray, and Victor Ries. While Frank Sinatra’s fundraising efforts and Rabbi Joseph Hurwitz’s leadership were important to the temple’s development, they do not meet Criterion ii because there is no evidence demonstrating a direct association with the property during their most productive periods nor is the site where they lived or made their most important contributions. Criterion ii is not met. (Criterion iii) The resource reflects or exemplifies a particular period of national, state or local history; Constructed and re-envisioned during the post-war period, Temple Isaiah is a distinctive resource that captures multiple periods of religious architectural development. The original 1950-1952 design reflects the postwar adoption of Modernist design principles in Palm Springs, where civic and religious buildings emphasized simple forms, minimal ornamentation, and the use of utilitarian materials. As the congregation grew, the site adapted to the changing community needs. The addition of six classrooms in the 1960s reflects the integration of Resolution No. HSPB #173 – Temple Isaiah Page 3 of 9 May 5, 2026
educational facilities onsite. By the 1980s, the demand for a larger space resulted in a major expansion project to accommodate larger gatherings. Rather than removing or significantly altering the configuration of the original sanctuary, a new auditorium space was constructed, and the exterior appearance of the building adopted a contemporary design expression that reflected Late Modern/Brutalist design. While the site embodies many significant iterations of design history, the original 1950s design of the Temple is no longer visible from the exterior. Its current appearance is a significant and distinctive example of architect David Christian’s work which exemplifies the architectural movement of the 1980s in Palm Springs.Criterion iii is met. (Criterion iv) The resource embodies the distinctive characteristics of a type, period or method of construction; In Palm Springs, Criterion iv evaluates whether a resource embodies distinctive characteristics associated with construction type, construction period, and construction methods. The construction of the temple appears to utilize conventional methods and materials. In contrast to the report’s analysis, Criterion iv is not met. (Criterion v) The resource presents the work of a master builder, designer, artist, or architect whose individual genius influenced his age, or that possesses high artistic value; Temple Isaiah reflects three distinct periods of architectural development in Palm Springs. The earliest phase, designed by E. Stewart Williams between 1950-1952, exemplifies Mid-Century Modern architecture for a religious building. In the 1960s, the addition by Wexler and Harrison complemented the original design using similar materials and compatible massing. All three architects associated with the site are recognized as master architects whose work has had a profound impact on the field. Today, much of the earlier design is primarily experienced from the interior. The Liberman Chapel, with the reinforced concrete beams and white oak woodwork reflects the design aesthetic of E. Stewart Williams, and the use of utilitarian materials to create spatial organization represents the work of Wexler and Harrison. In the 1980s, architect David Christian re-envisioned the temple with a major expansion characterized by bold geometry, sweeping curves, and a sense of monumentality. Although the stucco exterior encapsulates the original building, the report indicates the earlier structure remains intact within the new building envelope. Christian’s redesign of Temple Isaiah represents a dramatic design shift. The building now has a sculptural quality that is associated with the Late Modern and Resolution No. HSPB #173 – Temple Isaiah Page 4 of 9 May 5, 2026
Brutalist-influenced architecture. While the individual contributions of earlier architects are less visible externally, the overall design of the building demonstrates a high level of artistic value, and the site collectively reflects the work of master architects. Criterion v is met. (Criterion vi) The resource represents a significant and distinguishable entity whose components may lack individual distinction, as used in evaluating applications for designation of historic districts, for parcels on which more than one entity exists; or The resource is not within a historic district and does not qualify under Criterion vi. (Criterion vii) The resource has yielded or may be likely to yield information important to national, state or local history or prehistory. No information is available on any pre-historic significance of the site. Criterion vii is not met. SECTION 2: PART “B” ANALYSIS OF HISTORIC INTEGRITY. Analysis of Integrity. (PSMC 8.05.070 (C,1,b). The site, structure, building or object retains one or more of the following aspects of integrity, as established in the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards: integrity of design, materials, workmanship, location, setting, feeling, or association. Temple Isaiah is evaluated based on the following topics of integrity based on the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards:Location. The Temple Isaiah at 332 West Alejo Road was constructed in the 1950s. The original building appears to still occupy the same location on site, but it is now covered by the exterior stucco finish. The site maintains its historic relationship with the surrounding landscape and context; thus, integrity of location is met. Design. The strongest design integrity is associated with the Late Modern/Brutalist period, as the original design by E. Stewart Williams and the Wexler/Harrison additions have been encapsulated and are no longer visible on the exterior. Although the interior features are not protected under the local preservation ordinance, the original sanctuary space remains largely intact and continues to exemplify the design principles of its period. The later expansion, significant in its own right, is highly representative of Late Modern design. Its bold geometric forms, sculptural massing, and dramatic rooflines clearly convey the design intent of the 1980s. While the Mid-Century Modern phase has been substantially diminished externally, the property as a whole retains sufficient design integrity across multiple periods to communicate its design significance.
Resolution No. HSPB #173 – Temple Isaiah Page 5 of 9 May 5, 2026
Setting. The temple structure is surrounded by residential development to the north and east, Welwood Murray Cemetery is to the west and the O’Donnell Golf Course to the south. Based on the permit history, some stand-alone structures to the north were demolished but the overall character of the setting around the site remains similar to the conditions when it was first developed. The integrity of setting remains intact. Materials. The building materials from 1950-1952 consists of exposed concrete blocks, steel casement windows and precast concrete slabs. Most of this material remains encapsulated except for the north elevation and the interior space that remains extant. The materials from David Christian’s design includes exterior stucco cladding, stained glass windows and clerestory glazing remain and visually unify the exterior design of the building. The integrity of material from all periods survives with an emphasis on the 1980s expansion. Workmanship. Although the material evidence of the earlier period is largely concealed, the high quality of workmanship is evident in the interior spaces. The craft and workmanship of the 1980s period of significance dominates the exterior and shows clean finishes and well-maintained features. The integrity of workmanship is present. Feeling. The overall scale of the building underwent a significant transformation in the 1980s, and the design went from a simple rectilinear massing to an arced volume with a dramatic roofline. The use and function of the site as a community gathering space remains the key function and identity. While the appearance of the building has changed, the integrity of feeling of the site remains intact. Association. The original purpose of the site as a space for the Jewish community of Palm Springs remains unchanged. Its evolving architectural identity also is a testament to the community it serves. The integrity of association to the community remains strong and continues to be an architectural statement. SECTION 3: DEFINING HISTORIC CHARACTERISTICS In considering a recommendation for historic resource designation it is important to distinguish those physical elements that are original or from the period of significance from alterations, additions or features that were added at a later time. Distinguishing original character-defining features from non-original elements assists the HSPB when it is tasked with evaluating future alterations to the historic resource. Interior features and spatial arrangements are identified to emphasize their significance but fall outside the review authority of the HSPB and staff.
HISTORIC SITE PRESERVATION BOARD
STAFF REPORT
DATE: May 5, 2026 PUBLIC HEARING
SUBJECT: APPLICATION BY ROBERT WEINSTEIN FOR HISTORIC SITE DESIGNATION OF THE TEMPLE ISAIAH LOCATED AT 332 WEST
ALEJO ROAD, (APN 505-313-007) CASE: HSPB #173, (SY).
FROM: Department of Planning Services
SUMMARY
The Temple Isaiah site is approximately 3.3 acres and was initially developed in 1952.
Since its original construction, the site has undergone a series of design phases, with the present configuration completed in 1987. Although the site has expanded from its modest beginnings into a larger complex , it has maintained a historically significant role as a religious and cultural center within the community.
If designated as a historic resource, the property would be subject to the regulations outlined in Section 8.05 of the Palm Springs Municipal Code.
RECOMMENDATION:
1. Open the public hearing and receive public testimony.
2. Close the public hearing and adopt Resolution HSPB #173, “A RESOLUTION OF
THE HISTORIC SITE PRESERVATION BOARD OF THE CITY OF PALM
SPRINGS, CALIFORNIA, RECOMMENDING THAT THE CITY COUNCIL DESIGNATE “TEMPLE ISAIAH” LOCATED AT 332 WEST ALEJO ROAD , AS A CLASS 1 (LANDMARK) HISTORIC RESOURCE, HSPB #1 73, (APN #505-313- 007).”
BACKGROUND AND SETTING:
To accommodate the growing Jewish community in Palm Springs, architect E. Stewart Williams designed the first permanent facility between 1950 and 1952. Completed in the Modernist style, the building was modest in scale with a C-shaped plan, simple forms and exposed concrete block construction. The two-story sanctuary was a rectangular volume clad in precast concrete slabs embedded with pink granite chips incised with a Star of David. The space was designed for flexibility, supporting both religious services and community gatherings.
Historic Site Preservation Board Staff Report May 5, 2026 HSPB-173 – Temple Isaiah
In the early 1960s, architects Wexler and Harrison added a six-classroom addition, but it was the 1980s expansion that grew the site into the complex seen today. Architect David Christian transformed the existing building by encapsulat ing the original structure within a new stucco exterior and designed a new main auditorium space to the west of the existing building, making the complex more than three times its previous size. The design of the building transitioned from a Mid -Century Modern aesthetic to a Late Modern/Brutalist style. During this last design phase, parking and landscape design was modified. The detached building to the northeast corner is on the parcel but not analyzed for this application.
AERIAL VIEW OF THE SUBJECT PARCEL.
SOUTH ELEVATION FROM WEST ALEJO ROAD, 2025.
Historic Site Preservation Board Staff Report May 5, 2026 HSPB-173 – Temple Isaiah
SANCTUARY SPACE (LIBERMAN CHAPEL) DESIGNED BY E. STEWART WILLIAMS, 2025.
Related Relevant City Actions by HSPB, Planning, Fire, Building, etc.
May, 2026 Site inspection by members of the HSPB and City Staff.
Ownership Status
1951 Purchased by the current owner.
Historic Context Statement “Post-World War II (1945-1969)”
Context: Post-World War II Palm Springs (1945-1969)
Theme: Post World War II Civic and Institutional Development (1945-1969) Registration Requirements: To be eligible under this theme, a property must:
Date from the period of significance; and
Reflect important civic or institutional development from the period; or Represent an excellent example of an architectural style or property type; and
Display most of the character-defining features of the property type or style; and
Retain the essential aspects of historic integrity.
Context: Architectural Styles & Local Practitioners
Theme: Modern Styles of the Post-World War II Era
Historic Site Preservation Board Staff Report May 5, 2026 HSPB-173 – Temple Isaiah
Sub-theme: Mid-Century Modern
Sub-theme: Late Moderne
Sub-theme: Brutalist
Registration Requirements: To be eligible under this theme as an excellent example of its architectural style, a property must:
Retain most – though not necessarily all – of the character-defining features of the style, and continue to exhibit its historic appearance If important for illustrating a particular architectural style or construction technique, must retain most of the physical features that constitute that style or technique.
ANALYSIS:
A historic resources report (“the report”), site visit, and city documents and forms are the basis of this staff report.
Historic Preservation activities in Palm Springs are regulated under Municipal Code Section 8.05 (“ Historic Preservation” ). The purpose of the Historic Preservation Ordinance is:
“…to stabilize and improve buildings, structures or areas which are considered to be of historical, architectural, archaeological or ecological
value, to foster civic beauty, to strengthen the local economy and to promote the use of historic resources for the education and welfare of the citizens.”
Conditions that apply to Class 1 historic sites or resources:
1. It shall meet the definition of a historic site as outlined in Municipal Code Section
8.05.020.
2. An archival file shall be maintained on the property by the City.
3. It may be qualified as ‘historic’ at the federal, state, and/or county level.
4. A marker explaining the historic nature of the site may be installed in a location viewable from the public way.
5. Compliance with all rules and regulations for Historic Resources and Historic Districts under Chapter 8.05 of the Municipal Code.
6. If designated, the findings in support of designation shall be stated in a resolution of the City Council that shall be recorded with the County Recorders’ office within 90 days of the effective date of the Council’s resolution.
Evaluation of the Application. Pursuant to Municipal Code Section 8.05.070. C.1.a, the HSPB shall evaluate the application and make findings in conformance with the following criteria:
Criteria for the Designation of Class 1 Historic Resources. A site, structure, building or object may be designated as a Class 1 historic resource, provided both of the following findings (“a” and “b”) are met:
Historic Site Preservation Board Staff Report May 5, 2026 HSPB-173 – Temple Isaiah
a. The site, structure, building or object exhibits exceptional historic significance and meets one or more of the criteria listed below:
The following is an analysis of the Criterion and integrity findings for historic designation.
(Criterion i) The resource is associated with events that have made a meaningful contribution to the nation, state or community;
As a gather ing space for the Jewish community in Palm Springs , many religious and community events were organized and held at this site. The report specifically notes a fundraising concer t featuring Frank Sinatra that generated $4 million for the 1980s expansion; however, this event alone may not independently satisfy this C riterion. The property is directly associated with the development of the Jewish community in Palm Springs, and its continuous role as a social and cultural center for over 75 years demonstrates its significance as a site that reflects a broader pattern of events contributing to the growth of the local community. The site qualifies under Criterion i.
(Criterion ii) The resource is associated with the lives of persons who made a meaningful contribution to national, state or local history;
Temple Isaiah contains several notable works of art that were commissioned specifically for this site, including pieces by Yaacov Agam, Erik Ray, and Victor Ries. While Frank Sinatra’s fundraising efforts and Rabbi Joseph Hurwitz’s leadership were important to the temple’s development, they do not meet Criterion ii because there is no evidence demonstrating a direct association with the property during their most productive periods nor is the site where they lived or made their most important contributions. Criterion ii is not met.
(Criterion iii) The resource reflects or exemplifies a particular period of national, state or local history;
Constructed and re-envisioned during the post-war period, Temple Isaiah is a distinctive resource that captures multiple periods of religious architectural development. The original 1950-1952 design reflects the postwar adoption of Modernist design principles in Palm Springs , where civic and religious buildings emphasized simple forms, minimal ornamentation, and the use of utilitarian materials . As the congregation grew, the site adapted to the changing community needs. The addition of six classrooms in the 1960s reflects the integration of educational facilities onsite. By the 1980s, the demand for a larger space resulted in a major ex pansion project to accommodate larger gatherings .
Rather than removing or significantly altering the configuration of the original sanctuary, a new auditorium space was constructed, and the exterior appearance of the building adopted a contemporary design expression that reflected Late Modern/Brutalist design.
Although the architectural identity of Temple Isaiah has evolved, the site as a whole exemplifies the progression of postwar development in Palm Springs, therefore meets Criterion iii.
Historic Site Preservation Board Staff Report May 5, 2026 HSPB-173 – Temple Isaiah
(Criterion iv) The resource embodies the distinctive characteristics of a type, period or method of construction;
In Palm Springs , Criterion iv evaluates whether a resource embodies distinctive characteristics associated with construction type, construction period, and construction methods. The construction of the tem ple appears to utilize conventional methods and materials. In contrast to the report’s analysis, Criterion iv is not met.
(Criterion v) The resource presents the work of a master builder, designer, artist, or architect whose individual genius influenced his age, or that possesses high artistic value;
Temple Isaiah reflects three distinct periods of architectural development in Palm Springs.
The earliest phase, designed by E. Steward Williams between 1950- 1952, exemplifies Mid-Century Modern architecture for a religious building. In the 1960s, the addition by Wexler and Harrison complemented the original design using similar materials and compatible massing. All three architects associated with the site are recognized as master architects whose work has had a profound impact on the field.
Today, much of the earlier design is primarily experienced from the interior. The Liberman Chapel, with the reinforced concrete beams and white oak woodwork reflects the design aesthetic of E. Stewart Williams , and the use of utilitarian materials to create spatial organization represents the work of Wexler and Harrison. In the 1980s, architect David Christian re -envisioned the temple with a major expansion characterized by bold geometry, sweeping curves, and a sense of monumentality. Although the stucco exterior encapsulates the original building, the report indicates the earlier structure remains intact within the new building envelope.
Christian’s redesign of Temple Isaiah represents a dramatic design shift. The building now has a sculptural quality that is associated with the Late Modern and Brutalist - influenced architecture. While the individual contributions of earlier architects are less visible externally, the overall design of the building demonstrates a high level of artistic value, and the site collectively reflects the work of master architects. Criterion v is met.
(Criterion vi) The resource represents a significant and distinguishable entity whose components may lack individual distinction, as used in evaluating applications for designation of historic districts, for parcels on which more than one entity exists; or
The resource is not within a historic district and does not qualify under Criterion vi.
(Criterion vii) The resource has yielded or may be likely to yield information important to national, state or local history or prehistory.
No information is available on any pre-historic significance of the site. Criterion vii is not met.
Historic Site Preservation Board Staff Report May 5, 2026 HSPB-173 – Temple Isaiah
Analysis of Integrity. (PSMC 8.05.070.C.1.b). The site, structure, building or object retains one or more of the following aspects of integrity, as established in the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards: integrity of design, materials, workmanship, location, setting, feeling, or association.
Temple Isaiah is evaluated based on the following topics of integrity based on the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards:
Location.
The Temple Isaiah at 332 West Alejo Road was constructed in the 1950s. The original building appears to still occupy the same location on site, but it is now covered by the exterior stucco finish . The site maintains its historic relationship with the surrounding landscape and context; thus, integrity of location is met.
Design.
The strongest design integrity is associated with the Late Modern/Brutalist period, as the original design by E. Steward Williams and the Wexler /Harrison additions have been encapsulated and are no longer visible on the exterior. Although the interior features are not protected under the local preservation ordinance, the original sanctuary space remains largely intact and continues to exemplify the design principles of its period. The later expansion, significant in its own right, is highly representative of Late Modern design.
Its bold geometric forms, sculptural massing, and dramatic rooflines clearly convey the design intent of the 1980s. While the Mid- Century Modern phase has been substantially diminished externally, the property as a whole retains sufficient design integrity across multiple periods to communicate its design significance.
Setting.
The temple structure is surrounded by residential development to the north and east , Welwood Murray Cemetery is to the west and the O’Do nnell Golf Course to the south.
Based on the permit history, some stand- alone structures to the north were demolished but the overall character of the setting around the site remains similar to the conditions when it was first developed. The integrity of setting remains intact.
Materials.
The building materials from 1950- 1952 consists of exposed concrete blocks , steel casement windows and precast concrete slabs . Most of this material remains encapsulated except for the north elevation and the interior space that remains extant.
The materials from David Christian’s design includes exterior stucco cladding, stained glass windows and clerestory glazing remain and visually unify the exterior design of the building. The integrity of material from all periods survives with an emphasis on the 1980s expansion.
Workmanship.
Although the material evidence of the earlier period is largely concealed, the high quality of workmanship is evident in the interior spaces. The craft and workmanship of the 1980s period of significance dominates the exterior and shows clean f inishes and well - Historic Site Preservation Board Staff Report May 5, 2026 HSPB-173 – Temple Isaiah
maintained features. The integrity of workmanship is present.
Feeling.
The overall scale of the building underwent a significant transformation in the 1980s, and the design went from a simple rectilinear massing to an arced volume with a dramatic roofline. The use and function of the site as a community gathering space remains the key function and identity. While the appearance of the building has changed, the integrity of feeling of the site remains intact.
Association.
The original purpose of the site as a s pace for the Jewish community of Palm Springs remains unchanged. Its evolving architectural identity also is a testament to the community it serves. The integrity of association to the community remains strong and continues to be an architectural statement.
DEFINING HISTORIC CHARACTERISTICS:
In considering a recommendation for historic resource designation it is important to distinguish those physical elements that are original or from the period of significance from alterations, additions or features that were added later . Distinguishing original character-defining features from non-original elements assists the HSPB when it is tasked with evaluating future alterations to the historic resource.
Character-defining features on page 1 8 of the historic resources report and the staff analysis of important features are listed as follows . Interior features and spatial arrangements are identified to emphasize their significance but fall outside the review authority of the HSPB and staff.
Overall Massing and Form
• Composition of canted geometric forms dominated by upswept main sanctuary volume
• Two-level structure integrating basement and main level functions • Dramatically curved, upswept roofline rising toward Mt. San Jacinto • Heavy geometric massing with sloping profiles referencing Pueblo architectural traditions
• Long horizontal volumes punctuated by vertical elements • Integration of sculptural roof forms with functional spatial organization
Exterior Materials and Finishes
• White stucco facade on metal studs encapsulating original Williams building • Consistent white finish unifying multiple building phases • Long series of louvered stucco vertical fins on side elevations • Textural variation through angular planes and shadow lines • Desert-appropriate material palette emphasizing permanence and solidity
Historic Site Preservation Board Staff Report May 5, 2026 HSPB-173 – Temple Isaiah
Rooflines and Roof Forms
• Dramatically curved west elevation roofline creating sculptural silhouette suggesting spiritual uplift
• Sawtooth roofline composed of triangular clerestory elements providing rhythmic modulation
• Sweeping curved roof over sanctuary as dominant architectural element • Angular fascia wrapping and integrating earlier Williams structure • Complex interplay of flat, sloped, and curved roof planes
Fenestration and Glazing
• Eighteen angular windows punctuating façades on two sides (The word chai means "life" in Hebrew, making the number 18 a powerful symbol of good luck and well-being).
• Panoramic window above Bimah with 12 panes of glass representing 12 tribes of Israel
• Fixed glass panels facing west in vertical fins
• Continuous band of dark-tinted recessed glazing wrapping sanctuary volume • Clerestory windows creating sophisticated natural light choreography • Strategic window placement balancing light, views, and privacy • Deep reveals and recessed glazing creating pronounced shadow lines
Landscape Integration
• Xeriscape planting with gravel beds and native/adapted species • Tall fan palms providing vertical punctuation
• Spherically-trimmed shrubs as uniform landscape elements • Terracing and grading responding to site topography
• White retaining walls defining circulation and grade changes • Desert planting reinforcing integration with Palm Springs context • Mountain views framed as integral design element
Interior Spatial Organization - Main Level
• Large south lobby (Vener Reception Hall) running length of new wing • Bochner Sanctuary seating 500, expandable to 700 with adjacent Levy Hall • Levy Hall with dramatic clerestory windows framing mountain and palm tree views • Long north lobby for secondary circulation
• East lobby with adjacent professional kitchen
• Warsaw Ballroom for social and event space
• Conference room, library, and administrative offices
• Non-traditional sanctuary orientation facing west toward mountains rather than east toward Jerusalem
Interior Spatial Organization - Basement Level
• Large central multi-purpose/classroom space
• Mechanical rooms, storage rooms, warming kitchen
Historic Site Preservation Board Staff Report May 5, 2026 HSPB-173 – Temple Isaiah
• Support facilities including bathrooms, janitor's room, bride's room • Efficient circulation connecting functional spaces
Interior Finishes and Details
• Color-graduated upholstery on the pews coordinated with Agam ark: muted blue at front (near bimah) transitioning through pinkish hue to red at back • Interior design by Cathleen Jones in collaboration with Yaacov Agam • Integration of artistic elements with architectural design
Site Features and Context
• Alejo Road frontage establishing primary public identity • Service areas discreetly located
• Integration with surrounding residential neighborhood scale • Dramatic San Jacinto Mountains backdrop as designed visual element
Surviving Williams Elements (1949-1952)
Exterior:
• North elevation brick construction (now painted white) retaining textural variation • Original steel casement windows with slender Mid-Century profiles • Foundation and structural elements incorporated into Christian expansion • Precast concrete panels embedded with pink granite chips (Mo- Sai panels) with the Star of David pattern inscribed on the surface.
Interior:
• Exposed reinforced concrete beams (bents) left unpainted on ceiling and walls • Naturally finished white oak woodwork with clear lacquer on altar, choir screen, Ark, and trim
• Sandblasted and stained ceiling in soft mulberry color • Cantilevered stairs
• Small choir enclosure (seating 12) with small organ console below high windows • Single eternal light hanging from ceiling
Non-contributing elements:
• Modern mechanical equipment and rooftop installations • Updated life and safety systems (fire alarm, sprinkler, emergency lighting) • Contemporary signage not part of original Christian design • Parking lot configuration
ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT:
The proposed historic resource designation is not subject to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to Sections 15060(c)(2) (the activity will not result in a direct or reasonably foreseeable indirect physical change in the environment) and 15060(c)(3) (the activity is not a project as defined in Section 15378) of the CEQA Guidelines, California Code of Regulations, Title 14, Chapter 3, because it has no potential for resulting in physical changes to the environment, directly or indirectly.
Historic Site Preservation Board Staff Report May 5, 2026 HSPB-173 – Temple Isaiah
NOTIFICATION:
Pursuant to section 8.05.140 of the Municipal Code of Palm Springs, all residents within five hundred (500) feet of the subject property have been notified and notice was published in a newspaper of general circulation.
CONCLUSION:
Temple Isaiah is an exceptional resource that embodies multiple periods of significance by meeting Criterion i, iii and v ; therefore, staff recommends Class 1 designation to recognize the site as an important cultural landmark.
PREPARED BY: Sarah Yoon, Associate Planner/Historic Preservation Officer REVIEWED BY: Anthony Riederer, Assistant Director of Planning Services
Attachments:
A. Vicinity Map
B. Draft Resolution
C. Application
EXCERPTS OF MINUTES
At the Historic Site Preservation Board meeting of the City of Palm Springs, held May 5, 2026, the Historic Site Preservation Board took the following action:
2A. AN APPLICATION BY ROBERT WEINSTEIN FOR HISTORIC SITE DESIGNATION OF TEMPLE ISAIAH LOCATED AT 332 WEST ALEJO
ROAD, (APN # 505-131-007), CASE: HSPB #173, (SY).
Historic Preservation Officer Yoon summarized the information in the staff report and answered questions from the board.
Steven Keylon and Robert Weinstein (representatives for the applicant and applicant) spoke and answered questions from the board.
Public Comment:
Michael Frydrych and Susan Missner (community members) spoke in favor of the historic designation application.
Motion by Member Paonessa, seconded by Member Herr to adopt a draft resolution for HSPB #173, that the City Council designate Temple of Isaiah as a historic Class 1 site with amendments to the list of the character-defining features and revisions to the criteria analysis. This action is not a project pursuant to CEQA.
AYES: Hansen, Bachman, Herr, Paonessa.
NOES: None.
ABSENT: Maschka Hitchcock, McCready.