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Moise Safra Center completes in New York City

Cultural Facilities

Moise Safra Center completes in New York City

The project will act as a second home for the Jewish community it serves.


By David Malone, Associate Editor | March 1, 2021
Moise Safra Center stone fins exterior

All photos: James Ewing

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.

 

Moise Safra Center exterior

 

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.

 

Moise Safra Center dining terrace

 

Synagogue lobby space

 

Safra Center basketball court

 

Moise Safra swimming pool

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