The WBG hired Giana Castelli from Garrigan Design Group to design Solomon Schechter’s new Beit Midrash space.
The school decided to relocate their existing Beit Midrash space to their existing library, and to do so, a lot of coordination was involved. Giana was tasked with re-planning the existing library while making space to seat up to 100 students.
A wall was removed to create a large open space with new flooring, paint, furniture, and custom millwork. A new ark was also designed to re-home their Torah scrolls and had to be large enough to fill the large window space. It was important that the white oak matched a Wilsonart laminate color that is found in the rest of the room, also designed by Giana. The ark is solid white oak wood with a backlit Star of David, laser-cut side panels with a metal backer for added interest, and carved Hebrew letters. Not shown is a custom bookcase/tefillin cubby unit for student use.
The project was completed on time, under budget, and with a satisfied client.
