TEMPLE EMANUEL, KINGSTON, NY
In 2002 the congregation began planning for a major renovation. The project was largely funded by a generous bequest from the estate of Cantor John Park. His long association with Temple Emanuel gave him personal insight into the needs of the congregation. His main stipulation was that a chapel be constructed within the existing building for small gatherings and meetings.
The new chapel seats approximately 60 people for smaller services and it converts to a meeting room for the Temple Board and other functions. It features a linear skylight to allow natural light into the otherwise windowless space. The North wall is fully paneled in maple and the South wall has a matching wainscot. Various art works were commissioned and installed to enhance the space and inform the viewer. The art included four stained glass panels, three of them artificially backlit, precious metal sculptures for the Ark doors and a mural which encircles the space at the ceiling line.
Most of the spaces within the building were renovated as a part of this project. In addition to the new chapel the renovation included the lobby, sanctuary, social hall, stage, kitchen and offices. The project was completed in 2005 at a cost of $2,200,000.