Mount Zion Temple

Phase II completed the majority of the remaining work identified in the master plan and, primarily, focused on the renovation and revitalization of the main sanctuary and social hall and associated “back-of-house” functions such as a new commercial kitchen, storage, and mechanical/electrical distribution. The major design issues that the team had to address were: 
• The replacement of the existing DX cooling system with a chilled water system;
• The replacement of air distribution systems to solve noise and air quality related problems;
• The provision of a three-stop handicap lift to access the bimah (stage) and Ark platform (where the Torahs are kept);
• The redesign of the sanctuary that would accommodate liturgical changes in Reform Judaism while blending with the historic architecture of the existing building;
• The visual integration of the sanctuary with the adjacent social hall;
• The complete replacement of the inferior, existing sound and lighting system.

Sanctuary Before

Sanctuary After

Existing, lighting domes with type A lamps were replaced with energy efficient halogen bulbs which created a brighter, less costly to run lighting system. The new sound system featuring the newly released JBL Evo speakers performed admirably at the re-dedication ceremony where a wide range of vocal and instrumental music was easily accommodated. The sanctuary was redesign to have curved pews and bimah so that the clergy and congregation would experience a more intimate and personal environment. The three-stop lift required a variance from the city because of the need to keep the enclosing walls of the lift at a height that did not over-power the original architecture. Now, for the first time, physically challenged congregation members are able to access both the main bimah platform and the upper Ark platform where the Torahs are kept. The replacement of the mechanical systems has resulted in a quieter, more efficient system that responds more quickly to the demands of the space. Finally, new ceiling coffers were added to the social hall that align with the soffits of the sanctuary, thus visually uniting the two spaces when they are open to each other for the High Holy Days and for large gatherings.

The cost per square foot of the renovation without furnishings was $85.60.