Tifereth Synagogue – Corona, NY

Parrett Windows & Doors, Inc. was proud to be an integral part of the restoration of the Tifereth Israel Synagogue. This synagogue is one of the few remaining of the early, vernacular synagogues in Queens, and is the oldest in the borough, constructed in 1911 under the direction of architect, Crescent Varrone. One of the synagogue’s early congregants was Josephine Ester Mentzer, who would become the successful cosmetics entrepreneur Estee Lauder. Born in 1908, Mentzer spent her youth in Carona, starting her business by selling products door to door. Her parents, Rose and Max Mentzer, owned a hardware store two blocks from the synagogue.

The New York Landmarks Conservancy worked with the synagogue for over a decade on this restoration, which included removing the existing stucco coating to allow restoration of original wood clapboard siding. Along with new wood windows and doors, historic paint colors were applied to return the appearance of this landmark to its original appearance from a century ago. The scope of this restoration was $1.6 million.

Parrett worked with Lipsky Enterprises/Loduca Associates as the general contractor for this project, as well as with preservation architects Li/Saltzman. Specifically, Parrett provided exact matches to the existing Doors and Windows. This included: Custom profiles, custom sash & frame dimensions, true divided lites, matching decorative glass colors and patterns (some units upgraded with insulated glass), matching historic paint colors, and Alaskan Yellow Cedar lumber. The project consisted of french inswing casements, large factory mulled units, weight & chain windows, and an oversize french entry door.