The 65,000-sf, 14-story Moise Safra Center has opened in New York City’s Upper East Side. The PBDW Architects-designed building will act as a second home for the Jewish community it serves and unite a broad range of programming inclusive of both community center and religious functions.
At the center’s base is a double-height synagogue that is expressed on the exterior by multiple two-story, stone-clad fins that provide a sense of privacy while also bringing in eastern light. A smaller sanctuary space is located on floor above. Other religious spaces include a library/study and offices for the rabbinical staff.
Other building features include a wellness center and pool, a gymnasium that overlooks the cityscape, classrooms for teens, kitchen and hospitality areas, and flexible spaces that are adaptable for varying program needs. A banquet room takes advantage of the ninth floor setback by including a pre-funciton area with an outdoor terrace. A fully retractable glass wall allows events to seamlessly flow from inside to outside.
The project was completed in 2020.
Related Stories
Libraries | Feb 10, 2019
New library branch in San Diego opens with its community’s learning and working traits in mind
It features larger gathering spaces and more technology than its predecessor.
Libraries | Jan 18, 2019
Chicago’s newest library branch preserves the old and ushers in the new
Its exterior design reflects the neighborhood’s industrial history, while its interior fosters community and shared learning.
Cultural Facilities | Oct 24, 2018
San Antonio approves redevelopment of Alamo Plaza
The San Antonio City Council voted 9-2 in favor of the makeover.
Cultural Facilities | Aug 10, 2018
Moviegoers are looking for an ‘intimate experience’
Comfort and service are keys to attracting repeat customers, says an expert whose firm specializes in cinema design.
Cultural Facilities | Jun 11, 2018
Risorgimento, Buffalo style
Further evidence of the positive impact of the cultural centers on neighborhood development and economic growth can be found in Buffalo, N.Y., where plans for the Italian Cultural Center are moving forward.
Cultural Facilities | Jun 11, 2018
Cultural centers: Community-based venues can be catalysts for downtown renewal
New cultural centers have sparked development in the form of new offices, restaurants, retail, hotels, business incubators, apartments, and arenas.
Cultural Facilities | Jun 2, 2018
Topping Off: Pikes Peak is getting a new Summit Complex
The 26,000-sf facility will be green, resilient, and emphasize the view rather than the architecture.
Libraries | Jun 1, 2018
New library offers a one-stop shop for what society is craving: hands-on learning
Beyond lending books and DVDs, the Elkridge (Md.) branch library loans household tools like ladders, wheelbarrows, and sewing machines.
Museums | Jun 1, 2018
The new Orange County Museum of Art will be Orange County’s largest center for arts and culture
Morphosis designed the building.
| May 24, 2018
Accelerate Live! talk: Security and the built environment: Insights from an embassy designer
In this 15-minute talk at BD+C’s Accelerate Live! conference (May 10, 2018, Chicago), embassy designer Tom Jacobs explores ways that provide the needed protection while keeping intact the representational and inspirational qualities of a design.
