Tel-Aviv-based architecture studio Pitsou Kedem Architects has designed interiors of an historic apartment with multiple arched doorways in Jaffa, Israel. 

Named Old Jaffa House 4, the 250-square-metre building tries to combine ancient building traditions and innovative technologies by using glazed arches without divisions in axial opening and roofs containing modern infrastructure.

The building is situated adjacent to the side of the hill rock on the edge of ancient Jaffa Port, this apartment is a collection of 300-year-old spaces built around a central patio. 

The architects tried to create a continuous flow inside by designing each space with a fresh look and modern furnitures. "In the design of the apartment, an engineering effort was invested to connect the spaces in scope to create a flow between them," said Pitsou Kedem Architects. 

The architects maintained the original stone to build the vaults which were exposed and treated, and the arched doorways that were opened were filled with glass doors in blackened bronze frames, revolving around a central or lateral pivot. They redesigned the levels to accommodate the desired uses and a smoothed concrete floor unites the interior and patio.

The main design gesture is expressed in a dynamic metal cladding, which "travels" along the stone walls and accompanies them, containing behind them electrical pipes, air conditioning systems, stone niche storage and more. 

Occasionally, the wall cladding meets a joinery element and is functionally accompanied by it as a door, bed back or railing. The interior partitions were designed in carpentry and detached from the stone vaults to create sub-spaces in the arched open space.

Guests access to the apartment via stairs leading to the patio that takes advantage of the Mediterranean climate. The stairs are accompanied by a bronze railing adapted to the harsh weather conditions near the sea. From the patio that forms the center of the house, the various spaces are split. 

The main space includes a living room facing the sea terrace, master bedroom, kitchen and dining area. The patio has access to two more bedrooms and bathrooms. The material palate is minimal and includes concrete, stone, light wood, aluminum inside and bronze outside, and a combination of bronze shades to reflect the unique environment.

Project facts

Project name: Old Jaffa House 4

Architects: Pitsou Kedem Architects 

Size: 250m2

Location: Jaffa, Israel 

Architect In Charge: Avital Shenhav

Design Team: Avital Shenhav, Pitsou Kedem

Lighting Design: Orly Avron Alkabes

Bronze And Metal Works: Adam Steel

Aluminum Works: Nir Greshon

Carpentry: Mistriel

All images © Amit Geron

> via Pitsou Kedem Architects