Both groups were drawn to more flexible conservative practice, which was not yet recognized, but were not seeking the more popular Reform movement.

While it is not clear when it was purchased, KTI was housed, for some time, in the Traverse Avenue Synagogue and was sold in 1960 to the Port Chester Carver Center.

The building was designed by the architect Philip Johnson in 1954-56 in the International Style, with a simple interior and a ceiling of curving plaster panels, and completed in 1956.

The majority of the bema decor was acquired by the Jewish Museum in Manhattan following the renovation of the sanctuary in 2006 to increase accessibility and meet the changing needs of the congregation.

Interior and exterior scenes of the synagogue were shot on the site and approximately 40 congregants were used as extras.