KAPLAN JCC ON THE PALISADES

HENRY AND MARILYN TAUB FAMILY AUDITORIUM

 

 

 

 

  • PROJECT MISSION

    Design a vibrant multi-functional community center including an acoustically correct multi-purpose auditorium, lobby, offices, classrooms and day care center.

  • CLIENT GOALS

    Attract world class musicians and be a venue for revenue producing social events. On a daily basis the space had to be converted from a 600 seat theater-to a dining room for senior citizens’ lunches and other community functions.

  • CONSTRAINTS

    Donations and technical issues determined the budget. The design had to conform to the limitations and restrictions of the acoustical requirements. The existing, noisy, poorly placed air conditioning system had to be relocated, which meant eliminating both a proposed balcony and a “man-trap” double entrance that would have isolated voices from the adjacent lobby from a concert in progress.

  • DESIGN APPROACH

    The design approach was driven by acoustical requirements in collaboration with an acoustical engineer. Undulating walls and ceilings absorb and properly project sound throughout the entire space. Final material selections were made in conjunction with product donations from prominent JCC members. The space acts as a magnet for many activities fulfilling the client goals.

  • Notes of Interest:

    Carol Franklin has personally donated all of her time pro bono over a period of years, designing the health club/fitness center and the entire Russ and Angelica Berrie Wing, which houses a school of music, school of ballet, and another small but acoustically correct auditorium.

  • Location:

    Tenafly, NJ