|
||||
|
CONGREGATION BETH ISRAEL SAN DIEGO, CALIFORNIA
This relatively small 3.6-acre sloping site with mature coral trees on the northern end provided both challenges and opportunities during the design process. Early planning of the facility sought to minimize the costs associated with the extensive site work and the required retaining walls. The completed facility, however, with its multiple levels, courtyards for gathering and tall walls, provides the Congregation with a sense of community. Pedestrian movement is from secular space, through courtyards, entry kiosk and vestibules to the sacred space of the Sanctuary. Inspired by the City of Jerusalem, the Architects shaped building forms, selected materials and created spaces that provide a connection to the “Old City.” Domes over the Sanctuary, chapel and school science room evoke the sense of early synagogues. Concrete masonry block capped with precast concrete was selected to reinforce Congregants’ perceptions of permanence. The tall masonry facades move seamlessly from the exterior to the interior of the buildings. The striped patterning of the masonry is reminiscent of the patterns of the traditional “talit” or prayer shawl. The concrete masonry includes a “sourdough” color split-face block and a custom white cement “bead-blasted” block. Grout joints are colored to match the adjacent block. Joints are struck deeply in a large pattern to provide the reference to larger elements.
ARCHITECT: Austin Veum Robbins
Parshalle
Douglas H. Austin, FAIA Randy S. Robbins, AIA Michael Engel, AIA
Owner: Congregation Beth Israel |
|
|||
JURY
COMMENTS:
This is a
complex project with a challenging site – like a small
city. The jury found this project incredibly elegant and
well detailed. Viewed close up and then from a distance, one
can see the variety of dimension and detail that set it
apart. The subtle symbolism and ornamentation are exquisite.
Overall a seamless project, well deserving of the Grand
Award.
|
|