The Jewish Community of Japan is a private center supporting the life and culture of Tokyo’s Jewish community. A generous anonymous donation allowed for the planning of this new center to begin in 2006. The basement houses parking and a ritual cleansing bath. The first level houses a multi-purpose space for 200 people, a supporting kosher kitchen, and a smaller lounge for more intimate gatherings. The second level houses an 86-seat synagogue, classrooms, a library, and the Rabbi residence. By placing the multi-purpose space on the north side and the synagogue to the south and staggering the building section, both spaces are afforded a maximum ceiling height within the restricted overall zoning envelope. A light-filled atrium mediates the area between these spaces and serves as the main entry point for the complex. The exterior is characterized by cedar board formed concrete, with custom-patterned tile surfaces on the street and garden facades.
Location: |
Shibuya-ku, Tokyo, Japan |
Building Type: |
Community Center |
Structural System: |
Reinforced Concrete |
Number of Floors: |
1 Basement + 2 Stories |
Total Floor Area: |
1,915.58m² |
Structural Engineer: |
Kojima Structural Design Office |
Mechanical / Electrical Engineer: |
P.T. Morimura and Associates |