MATT Construction Corp.

Owner:

Wilshire Boulevard Temple

Architect:

OMA

Scope Of Work

MATT, alongside international architect Rem Koolhaas and LA-based Gruen Associates, is undertaking this visually daring new addition to the Wilshire Boulevard Temple complex along one of LA’s main thoroughfares. Its dedicated future purpose as an event space for the local congregation and for the larger community benefits from a bold design that will surely be a centerpiece of conversation for those gathered.

This geometrically complex structure will house three occupied levels, two mezzanines, an indoor atrium, a roof garden and a double-height event space. The exterior envelope is askew, with one vertical and three sloping walls, which demands unique structural elements and high-end interior finishes with tight construction tolerances. Use of a tiered scaffolding configuration will minimize the overhead angle for workers during construction and also help with on-center spacing. Custom-engineered framing attachments will allow for inter-story drift and minimize visual impacts, to compensate for the movement in the building that can arise from double-height elevations.

The façade’s elaborate rain screen system features hexagonal panels, windows, flashing and sheeting. The team is investigating the most efficient waterproofing options for a non-vertical structure.

The team dedicated extensive precon analysis to security logistics for the neighboring, occupied school and synagogue, such as live scanning, badges and creating a separate entrance and exit for construction personnel. To compensate for the site stretching to the property line and attendant sequencing constraints (e.g. not being able to put a crane on Wilshire Boulevard), the team has come up with creative solutions for timing trades like steel, which require an elaborate and large setup to execute.