Yale University

The Slifka Center for Jewish Life at Yale University first opened its doors in 1995. After 25 years, the building was in need of significant refurbishment and repair, as well as modernization to meet the 

needs of college students today and long into the future. 

elite|studio e was brought onboard by the architect to reimagine the kitchen, café and dining experience. Goals for this 2,000 SF renovation included major updates to the equipment, as well as changing the setup and layout for the two kitchens and café . The space features a basement café, and kitchen with stations ranging from self-serve beverage, salad, dessert, entrée, and a full service action station. The Renovations also involved a 20 percent boost in seating capacity in the new, modernized dining hall.

Open to the public seven days a week, the Slifka Center offers lunch, dinner and a bagel breakfast on Sundays. In accordance with Jewish law, the food needed to be Kosher. In terms of foodservice design, is the complete separation of meat and dairy products during all phases of service, a service our team has much experience in. 

The $8 million renovation took four years to complete partially due to COVID-19 delays. The project was then prolonged as contractors discovered structural problems within the building. The project expanded to include addressing these concerns for good.

In 2023, the Slifka Center for Jewish Life at Yale University was recognized as an outstanding design in the Interior Renovation category by American School & University Magazine.

Photo Credit: Paul Warchol