Lincoln Center's redevelopment project, a $1.2 billion undertaking that started in 2006, (and received $100 million from billionaire David H. Koch last year) just got another financial boost. Yesterday, Lincoln Center revealed that David M. Rubenstein, managing director of private equity firm the Carlyle Group, has pledged $10 million. In honor of the gift, the new visitors center for the campus—scheduled to open on November 24—will be named the David Rubenstein Atrium at Lincoln Center.
Designed by Tod Williams Billie Tsien Architects, the atrium is a key part of Lincoln Center's renovation and is conceptualized as the gateway to the Upper West Side hub. In addition to offering a central spot to purchase tickets, the community space will also house a café and serve as the site for free weekly performances and the departure area for the center's tour program.
In another update to Lincoln Center's new facilities, Jonathan Benno has been selected as the executive chef of the as-yet-unnamed Patina Group restaurant that will be located in Hearst Plaza (formerly known as the North Plaza), beside Avery Fisher Hall. Benno, chef de cuisine for Thomas Keller's Per Se, will create the seasonal menu for the campus eatery, which is slated for a fall 2010 opening.
