Project: Luxurious Duplex
Planning and design: Halel Architecture
Team: Hadas Roth and Shira Muskal
Location: Jaffa, Israel
Area: 260 sqm
Photo Credits: Oded Smadar
The Halel design firm were asked to create a duplex without knowing who its future residents will be. Their approach: a bold design that combines industrial elements in harmony with the glory of old Jaffa
This luxurious duplex, designed by Hadas Roth and Shira Muskal of Halel Architecture, is unique in its unconventional bold design that combines industrial as well as country touches. Set against the breathtaking backdrop of the old city of Jaffa and located near the seafront, this 260 sqm home was turned into a highly sought after luxury duplex and as such, its future owners fell in love with it and will be moving in the whitin near future.
The real-estate developers Tzemach Hamerman, Carasso Real Estate and Vlodinger Real Estate approached Halel Architects to plan, design and style the property. At that stage, since it was unknown who the property owners would be, there was a need to design the duplex in a way that would appeal to a multitude of needs. The process was indeed different, but it allowed the designers to run wild in a way that is not often possible when there is a specific client in the mix. The results speak for themselves. According to designer Hadas Roth, the aim was to design a property that will coexist in harmony with the location, as well as appeal to a wide range of clients, in line with the project’s DNA and target market that were predefined by the developers.
“The intention was to design a pleasant, warm and pampering home that would appeal to its potential new owners”, says Rot. “The design had to reflect the potential of the property; on the one hand, a home that exludes luxury and style, and on the other one that is welcoming, cozy and functional”.
Roth adds: “We created a chic style that is reminiscent of boutique hotels. A sort of holiday duplex. We took this approach due to the proximity of the property to the beach. A visually pleasing design”.
“We used a variety of industrial materials that allude to the property’s location”, Says Arch. Muskal. The materials, including metal, wood, weathering steel and concrete, all blend together in a very clean and minimalist way that creates richness whilst remaining pleasant and unassuming.
The family living space is located on the first level and includes a sitting room, a kitchen and a dining area. To avoid lowering the ceilings for an a/c system, a power wall was designed in the sitting room, which is fitted with a fireplace, an a/c unit and entertainment unit. The wall was cladded in weathering steel that corresponds with materials found around the old Jaffa area. A dominant green wall serves as a backdrop for an art piece that was purchased especially for the property and in combination with special lighting, creates a feel of a small boutique gallery within the living space. The sitting room was given an eclectic feel through the combination of different textures including the couch, the armchairs and a chaise-lounge from which the view can be experienced.
Another hidden a/c unit was fitted within the kitchen cabinets. The kitchen itself combines wood-like and metal-like materials and floor-to-ceiling cabinets conceal a hidden access to a pantry, a utility room, and a family corner. A large island was fitted in the center of the kitchen, which can be used both as a workspace and a seating area.
A large yet modest glass top table was placed in the dining area, which is located between the kitchen and the lounge. A unique lamp designed like a sculpture complements and completes the overall feel.
The family corner is located in an open space and can be accessed via the pantry. The purpose of this corner was to “break up” the long corridor and allow for natural light to come in through the balcony. This corner was wisely created at the expense of an additional room with the aim of opening up the space. In addition, the lower level includes a spacious bedroom suite with a walk-in wardrobe, two additional bedrooms and a bathroom.
The balcony is positioned in parallel to the main living space and mirrors it with its own sitting room, dining area and outdoor kitchen.
The second level is a surprise! At 74 sqm and a 15 sqm balcony, it is every couple’s dream. The challenge was to create an experience of space whilst maintaining an intimate feel. In addition to the master suite, this level includes a home office corner, a library, a mini bar and a reading corner.
A walk-in wardrobe with glass doors was fitted in the suit, reflecting the sea, and a large pampering en-suite bathroom was designed with a free standing bath and large glass doors that separate it from the bedroom.
The master suite overlooks the sea and was planned in a way that allows the couple to work in the home office corner whilst enjoying the open space without disruption thanks to a glass partition.
The bed itself faces the sea as does the bedroom balcony, creating a breathtaking look. It is an absolute dream to wake up like this each morning.
The result is a luxurious duplex that combines the uniqueness of the old city of Jaffa with the urban flair of Tel-Aviv. A property with the qualities and vibes of the perfect authentic vacation retreat.
