Temple Ahavat Achim

Temple Ahavat Achim

Gloucester, MA

After a fire destroyed its synagogue in 2007, the board members of Temple Ahavat Achim selected Kaplan Construction to build a new 10,000 SF building within the footprint of the original structure.

Early in construction, the project team navigated an unexpected transition when the MEP engineer of record ceased operations. While a new engineer was engaged, long-lead HVAC equipment and lighting releases had to be temporarily paused. Kaplan had to complete coordination while the structure was erected at pace. The majority of the MEP systems were carefully threaded through the narrow interstitial space above the first floor ceiling and special provisions were made to allow for the future rigging of several large HVAC units into finished areas.

Achieving the design team’s vision required continual field mockups, group discussion, and feedback from trades. Multiple mockups were produced for the brick patterns in the entrance screen wall, mechanical device and light fixture distribution location at the ceilings, stone flooring, and bamboo wall panels.

Kaplan also incorporated recovered granite blocks from the destroyed building’s walls and restored its charred mahogany doors and granite foundation stones to connect the new building to its past. Kaplan’s personal approach and dedication helped to build consensus among 200 families and the 15-20 members of the building committee.

In 2011, Kaplan received an Excellence in Construction Merit, Spirit, and Green Award from the Associated Builder’s and Contractors Massachusetts.