Located on the box tier level of the concert hall, the lounge provides the concert hall patrons a space to congregate and refresh.  At other times, the space may be used for dinner events, presentations and to host people from around the globe to connect and reflect on an important part of the world.

Project Proposal: In Judaism, a mantle is a sleeveless cloak signifying leadership. This simple fabric garment has inspired the curvilinear wall and ceiling design for the Israeli Lounge. As one enters the space, the mantle is draped over each of us, a sign of responsibility, service, and vision. These principles are consistent both with John F. Kennedy’s ideals, and Israel today, as she celebrates 70 years as a state and looks towards the future.

Judaism teaches that time has a positive direction, and the world is moving from conflict to redemption. Time has another sacred dimension as well: A moment where the past, present, and future meet. The Torah’s word for holy time is “moed”, which is also the word for gathering place. The Israeli Lounge is a place for people to live out these special moments. Where patrons, neighbors, and visitors alike meet to connect, experience, and reflect. A space outside the everyday, where clear presence and mindful awareness might help leverage creative energy. Time is embodied within the materials that shape the Lounge. Jerusalem stone panels on the east end wall and long wall bases represent the past, the black reflective resin floor and west end wall symbolizing the future; and the undulating, pearlescent finish, venetian plaster “Mantle” ceiling and walls giving form to the present moment. Plaster was chosen for its ability to luminously reflect different light qualities. The panel reveals are polished metal to reflect light differently. A unique Star of David pattern is used to panelize the Mantle, giving form to its undulating profile, and adding a gradient field of lighting apertures called the oculus. Together, this sophisticated mantle skin creates a seamless shell of intimate spaces.