Hotel Renovation and Refresh – Jerusalem

This project involved the renovation and refresh of an existing three-star urban hotel, with the goal of modernizing the guest experience while working within a limited budget and preserving much of the existing infrastructure. The objective was to create a renewed and contemporary atmosphere without the need for an extensive and costly renovation.

My involvement with the hotel began in 2010, when I redesigned the hotel lobby in a classic style that reflected both the character of the property and the vision of its owners. Over the years, the lobby developed a unique identity thanks to the hotel owner, a well-known Jerusalem-based classic car collector, who gradually introduced collectible model cars and automotive memorabilia into the space. These additions created a distinctive atmosphere and gave the hotel a memorable personality that sets it apart from other urban hotels.

In 2019, I was invited back to assist with the renovation of the guest rooms. The primary challenge was to achieve a noticeable transformation while retaining the existing layout and construction, all within a carefully controlled budget. Rather than replacing everything, we adopted a strategic approach focused on upgrading and revitalizing existing elements wherever possible.

The project included the restoration and refurbishment of furniture pieces that were still in good condition and suitable for continued use. These were complemented by carefully selected new furnishings, textiles, lighting fixtures, and decorative elements that introduced a fresh and contemporary feel to the rooms. Through targeted interventions and thoughtful design decisions, we were able to significantly enhance the guest experience without undertaking a full-scale renovation.

This project demonstrates how intelligent planning, creative thinking, and efficient budget management can successfully revitalize an existing hotel, improve its hospitality offering, and extend the life of its assets while creating a renewed experience for guests.

Photography : Simplex Studio