Let's Build Our Home!
We are building a permanent physical home for the IKAR community in the heart of one of the most diverse cities in the world. The Center will be a laboratory for Jewish life and learning, and a hub of spiritual, cultural, and justice endeavors and a space for Shabbat and holiday services.
Why do we need a building?
In a time of turmoil, uncertainty, and deep division, IKAR has been a source of spiritual strength, moral courage, and belonging for thousands. Now is the moment to build on that foundation and secure a permanent home that can sustain and expand this work for generations to come. The IKAR Center will be more than a building—it will be a sacred, vibrant space for connection, learning, and purpose, ensuring that IKAR continues to inspire, uplift, and lead when it is needed most.
Where will the new IKAR Center be located?
The new IKAR Center will be built at 1737 S. La Cienega Blvd, in the heart of Los Angeles.
Who is designing the building?
- Architect: Barbara Bestor Architecture
What will the new IKAR Center include?
- Sacred assembly space
- Café and multi-faith library
- Event and gathering space
- Early Childhood Center for up to 80 children (infants through TK)
- Limudim (religious school) classrooms for kids ages 5–13
- Art studio and music lab
- Commercial-sized kitchen
- Rabbinic and administrative offices
How big will the new facility be?
- Indoor space: approximately 45,000 sq. ft.
- Outdoor space: approximately 12,000 sq. ft.
The IKAR Center will be able to accommodate 2,500-3,000 people on campus during our busiest times, such as the High Holy Days.
What’s the timeline for the project?
- Groundbreaking: Planned for Spring 2027
- Construction: Estimated 2 years
- Opening: Summer 2029
What about affordable housing?
IKAR is committed to including at least 50 units of affordable housing, located adjacent to but separate from the IKAR Center.
- This portion will be funded and operated by our housing partner, not through IKAR’s capital campaign.
- Capital Campaign funds will be used solely for the IKAR Center.
- All operations, management, and maintenance of the housing will be handled by the partner and their management team.
Who is the lead donor?
Marta Kauffman has graciously made a $25 million pledge—the largest in IKAR’s history—as part of the IKAR Center Capital Campaign to fund the construction of the new Center. Marta currently serves as Vice Chair of IKAR’s Board of Directors and is a deeply committed leader and ambassador for our mission and work. Marta is dedicating her extraordinary gift to her beloved parents, Dorothy and Herman Kauffman, whose values and love helped shape her deep commitment to community, justice, and Jewish life. To learn more about Marta and her transformational gift, please click here.