Maximizing the New Addition
Urban Renewal (TAMA 38)
TAMA 38 projects typically add a secure room (Mamad), which is often not organically integrated into the existing space, leading to a fragmented layout . It is essential to approach both the original apartment and the newly added section as a unified whole, ensuring the space flows harmoniously while also increasing its overall value and usability.
Two Identical Apartments, Two Unique Solutions
This project involved two families who owned identical apartments in the same building, undergoing a Tama 38 urban renewal project in the German Colony in Jerusalem. However, their needs were completely different.
-
The original apartments were 72 square meters, and after the expansion, they grew to 133 square meters each.
-
The contractor’s proposal suggested adding three small bedrooms (!) to the original layout, which already consisted of a narrow, long living room and two small bedrooms.
-
Both families rejected this design in favor of fewer but larger, more functional spaces.
Their Shared Request:
-
A spacious public area
-
Three bedrooms, including a large master suite
-
Two bathrooms
Customized for Their Lifestyles:
-
Family 1 – The Entertainers & Food Lovers
They love hosting and cooking, so their home was designed around a huge chef’s kitchen, allowing them to prepare meals while interacting with guests.
-
Family 2 – The Movie Buffs
They are passionate about film, so their living room was centered around a large TV and home theater system—perfect for hosting big movie nights.
The End Result?
Two happy families living in completely different apartments, each one tailored to their personal lifestyle and preferences.
Before
After
Key Transformations – Family 1 (The Entertainers):
(1) Large chef’s kitchen with a spacious island, enabling cooking while engaging with guests.
(2) Floor-to-ceiling niche closet for displaying a ceramic collection.
(3) Extendable dining table for hosting large family meals.
(4) Spacious and luxurious master bedroom.
(5) "His & Hers" hanging storage, plus a wall-to-wall dresser for folded items.
(6) Large walk-in shower in the master bathroom.
Before
After
Key Transformations – Family 2 (The Movie Buffs):
(1) Spacious living room optimized for entertaining.
(2) A dedicated TV wall featuring a 75-inch screen/projector.
(3) A cozy kitchen with a small island for casual meals.
(4) Extendable dining table for large family gatherings.
(5) Spacious, luxurious master bedroom.
(6) "His & Hers" hanging storage, plus a wall-to-wall dresser for folded items.
(7) Large walk-in shower in the master bathroom.
Tama 38: A Unique Opportunity for an Amazing Upgrade & Property Value Appreciation
A couple approached me after inheriting an apartment in a prime location in Jerusalem. The building was undergoing a Tama 38 urban renewal project, expanding the apartment from 80 square meters to 117 square meters.
The original apartment, untouched since the 1960s, had:
-
A narrow, long living room, with a view that was about to be blocked due to the expansion of the neighboring building
-
A basic kitchen
-
Two small bedrooms
-
One bathroom
The Client’s Request:
-
A modern open-space layout
-
Three bedrooms
-
Two bathrooms
-
No expensive structural changes
The Transformation:
Through smart planning of the 23-square-meter expansion, we turned a dark, outdated apartment into a luxurious, modern space.The public area was strategically relocated to face the bright, green courtyard instead of the blocked view.
Final Result?
A stunning, functional, and high-value apartment, fully optimized for modern living—without breaking the bank.
Before
After
Key Design Changes:
(1) Relocated the main living space to the back of the building, where it’s brighter and overlooks a green courtyard. This allowed for a spacious kitchen with a breakfast bar facing the garden.
(2) Installed a floor-to-ceiling iron bookshelf, partially hollow, which houses the TV, plants, and decorative items.
(3) Integrated a workstation in the main living area.
(4) Added a coat closet by the entrance.
(5) Designed a luxurious master suite with:
-
Ample storage (wardrobe & dresser).
-
A cozy reading nook.
-
A dedicated workspace.
(6) Added a private master bathroom.
(7) Installed a laundry closet in the hallway.
(8) Created a huge utility closet for cleaning supplies, vacuum, linens, and seasonal clothing.