J2 Previous Work

John & Jennifer designed the Kendall Square Cinema, Cambridge, MA while working at OKS Architects in Cambridge, MA (no longer in existence).

The art-house cinema won an ASID/Boston Magazine Design Excellence award in 1996. The panel of judges “liked the way they took a turn-of-the century building type-the old movie palace, and interpreted in a fresh, contemporary vernacular. They especially appreciated the way the design avoided the cookie-cutter look of the standard suburban multiplex: it reflects the vitality of the urban environment”.

One of the main ideas for the front elevation of the building was that of how a flat plane (i.e. movie screen) becomes perceived as three dimensional once images are projected onto it. This is why the canopy, ticket booth and vestibule pierce through the wall. Inspired by the image of projected light, a wave-motion motif symbolized by two opposed and overlapping curves was developed. This was integrated into the custom
designed light fixtures, perforated metal ceiling panels, stair rails, millwork, signage and flooring patterns.

A sketch by the designers convinced the client to commission an art piece for the wall above the
concession stand.

Commissioned art by Wellington “Duke” Reiter
Photography by Bruce Martin