John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, Israeli Lounge

• firm:

  John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, Israeli Lounge (Belilta Asfaw Project Experience)

• location:

  Washington, D.C

• Budget:

  $1.25M

• Size:

  300m2

• phases:

  Concept | SD | DD/GMP

• program:

  A multi-use space for Screenings | Receptions | Cocktail events | Prefunction space.

• Concept:

  After receiving a $1M donation to renovate the Israeli Lounge, the John F. Kennedy Center assembled an international competition for the redesign of the interior space. Our team won the pursuit after two rounds of selections, Q&A and an interview process. The design is primarily focused on celebrating Israel’s history and culture while educating all who visit the space. We integrated symbols that hearken back to Israel’s landscape, cityscape, history and religion. Being the largest feature in the room, the ceiling’s dramatic undulation is molded by prominent topographical points along Israel’s landscape. Visitors can simply look up and experience Israel. The walls host 13 large Jerusalem stone slabs symbolic of the 13 tribes of Israel and will act as a backdrop for curated art from the region. The space is designed to comfortably host formal and informal events with corresponding features and technology.