Reviving Historical Homes: The Challenges and Joys of Restoring Jerusalem's Old City Residences

Restoring homes in Jerusalem’s Old City is unlike any other design work I’ve done. It’s both a challenge and a privilege to breathe new life into these spaces, which are filled with so much history and character. There’s something incredibly special about working on homes that have stood for centuries, knowing that every stone, every archway, has a story to tell. But with that comes the responsibility of preserving the past while making the space functional for modern living.

One of the biggest challenges of restoring these homes is the delicate balance between maintaining the historical integrity of the building and incorporating the conveniences that homeowners expect today. For example, Old City homes often have thick stone walls, which are beautiful but can make installing modern amenities like plumbing, electrical systems, or even insulation, tricky. It’s always a puzzle to figure out how to respect the original architecture while ensuring the home is comfortable and up-to-date.

But I’ve always believed that these challenges are what make the work so rewarding. There’s something magical about finding ways to blend the old with the new—whether it’s carefully restoring an ancient stone wall while adding sleek, modern fixtures or designing a kitchen that feels contemporary yet respects the building’s original layout. It’s about honoring the craftsmanship of the past while making sure the space works for the people who live in it now.

One of my favorite parts of the restoration process is uncovering hidden details—like an old, weathered door frame beneath layers of paint or a beautifully preserved tile floor that had been covered for years. These discoveries are little treasures that remind me why I love working in these historic spaces. They’re also a reminder that my job isn’t just to design a home; it’s to reveal and celebrate the history that’s already there.

And then there’s the emotional aspect. These homes are not just buildings; they’re part of Jerusalem’s soul. The sense of history in the Old City is palpable—you can feel it in the stones and see it in the streets. When I restore these homes, I’m not just designing for my clients; I’m also contributing to the preservation of a living, breathing piece of history. It’s a delicate responsibility, and one I take seriously.

Of course, restoration work requires patience. It’s not a fast process, and it’s full of surprises—some good, some challenging. But for me, it’s worth every obstacle. Seeing the end result—a home that seamlessly blends centuries-old architecture with the comforts of modern life—is incredibly fulfilling. It’s a way of honoring Jerusalem’s past while creating spaces that will continue to be loved and lived in for years to come.