Building Project

The Evolution of the Congregation Beth HaTephila Building Process

What started out as an effort to construct a new education facility to replace the aging and minimalist 1 story school building transformed over time into the a project that would fundamentally improve the quality of life for everyone who uses the facility.

It became quickly apparent to the designers and the building committee that there were more issues than could be solved by a new school building and offices. In an elegant effort to fold the concerns of as many congregants and segments of the “building user” population into a single solution the final design accomplishes the following:

The new building will have …

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A clear new entrance from the parking lot. Anyone coming to the building for the first time will know exactly where they need to enter the building. They will come into a beautiful, well lit gallery where they can be greeted by a volunteer or the administrator in a comfortable space.

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A large, well lit, Social Hall on the same floor as the Sanctuary with views of the mountains, easily accessible modern toilet facilities, plenty of storage and a new fully equipped commercial kitchen. Our senior members will no longer need to navigate up or down the narrow, steep stairs on their way to or from Unger Hall to enjoy the Oneg, or a Seder or any other special event. The new room will be nice enough that anyone would be proud to hold events such as Bar/Bat Mitvah parties, wedding receptions or other large formal events.

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New administrative offices. Each staff member will have an office large enough to work in and host guests or students as necessary in a professional environment. A new conference room within the administrative area will provide a meeting space for committees, boards and groups. A separate work room will provide a space for the copy machine and abundant supply storage and a new administrative space will be large enough for a volunteer to help while also providing visual control of the main entrance.

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A designated area for the Sisterhood Gift Shop will be located conveniently within sight of the main entrance, the volunteer desk and the administrator which will allow potential shoppers to come by and browse or purchase items at any time.

A Library will be located adjacent to the front entry which will contain bookshelves for storage and display of the Temple’s collection, making it available for anyone to borrow or stop and read in a comfortable, well lit space. The library will also serve as a meeting room for adult classroom as necessary.

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