Lauren Bombet was hired as the interior designer in collaboration with RHH Architects for the renovation and addition for the Unified Jewish Congregation of Baton Rouge. The design encompasses a new sanctuary, social hall, and lifelong learning center for two congregations (formerly Beth Shalom Synagogue and Congregation B'nai Israel) that reunited after being separated in 1945. Incorporating sacred articles from the history of both congregations in the hope that congregants will recognize and celebrate their pasts, while building a future in this holy and transcendent space. 

The foyer features seven panes of the original B'nai Israel stained glass windows on the lower level, and the Beth Shalom stained glass window on the upper level. In the late afternoons, the western sun filters through the stained glass, painting the foyer and sanctuary with light and color. The sanctuary, which faces east toward Jerusalem, consists of an intimate inner space that expands for High Holy Days and other large events. The inclusive seating enables the congregation to remain close to the bimah, even in an enlarged arrangement and different configurations. 

The interior finishes and design are inspired by our rich Jewish heritage and traditions, reimagined as spatial relationships and surface treatments achieved through the use of meaningful materials rooted in our history. 

Honed limestone flooring throughout is inspired by the Kotel (Western Wall) and its ancient connection to Israel. The 'veil' drapery room dividers are inspired by the traditions of tallit and tzitzit, as well as by the biblical story of the Mishkan (tabernacle). The luminous woven fabric symbolizes a weaving of the unified community, providing protection and embracing the congregation. A repeating and interlocking Magen David (Star of David) pattern warms the ceiling of the sanctuary.

The Aron HaKodesh (The Holy Ark) doors, created by artist Larkin Gaudet, are a multidimensional olive tree branch symbolizing peace. The fabrication was achieved by layering hand formed clay plaster over steel and metallic leaf overlay, creating a rich visual experience, as if the branches have been unearthed. The golden interior of the Aron HaKodesh is hand-applied gilding by artist Diane Killeen. The lacquered container and base were fabricated and engineered by artisan Ford Thomas, who also fabricated the white oak Torah reading table. The Ner Tamid (eternal light) is a collaboration between Larkin and Mitchell Gaudet. The cast glass olive tree branch design is an extension of the Aron HaKodesh door design, which extends upwards towards the heavenly realm.

Behind the sanctuary is an orchard filled with trees echoing the following words:

When I was born into this world, I found many beautiful trees planted by those who came before me. Just as my ancestors planted trees for me, I am planting trees for my children and grandchildren, so they will be sustained. Based on Midrash in the Babylonian Talmud, Trectate Ta'anit 23a.

The original 1950s sanctuary was renovated to accommodate a Community Living Room, Library / Board Room, Conference Room, and Offices for the Rabbi, Executive Director, and Administration.