[2] Originally founded on Orthodox ideology, Emanuel gradually shifted towards Reform Judaism by adopting Minhag America in 1889, choosing to worship with uncovered heads and finally uniting with Congregation Or Chadosh in 1894.

[2][3] Another notable change in the early years of the congregation is its formal shift from speaking German to English in 1901.

[2] The congregation grew once again, which led to another location change in 1949 to a lot on Sheridan Road at Thorndale Avenue.

[3] Ross Barney + Jankowski completed stylistic remodelling in 2001, and in 2013, the building was opened up to views of Lake Michigan, designed by Blender Architecture.

The synagogue features an Ark designed by Edgar Miller, stained-glass windows (including seven vintage windows, restored from a demolished Lawndale synagogue[4]), movable translucent wall panels, and sails hung from the ceiling.