Canada Israel by Halel Arch: Inspired by North American Design

Israeli firm Halel Arch has revamped the interiors of a home in Ra’anana, Israel, to echo the feel of North American design with the addition of black windows and a kitchen with natural granite surfaces.

The home, initially purchased by a Canadian couple in its existing condition, was redesigned by Halel Arch architect Shira Muskal, who incorporated elements of North American design used back home by the couple.

Muskal opted for herringbone pattern parquet flooring, to create a connection to traditional American interior design, balanced with contemporary elements such as a neutral colour palette.

“We opted for details such as herringbone pattern parquet flooring, a stylish kitchen with a granite surface, and prominent lighting fixtures,” said Muskal.

“We toned down the design a bit and maintained a more moderate envelope so that the flow in the space is optimal.”

Much of the redesign was focused on opening the home to its surroundings, with the addition of large black aluminium windows that contrast with the home’s white painted facade.

“Together with the executing contractor, Bar Mishael, we expanded and raised the original openings to ceiling height, and the staircase, which was originally wrapped in built walls,” said Muskal.

“Another significant decision was to choose black aluminium profiles: the house is characterized by straight and classic architecture, so the dark windows create interest and emphasis, as well as the right contrast between the envelope and the rich materials of the house,” she added.

The garden is accessed via a floor-to-ceiling window in the living room that bled more natural light into the space. The firm’s design eliminated a dining area that the current owners disliked.

On the interior, the studio repositioned the main cooking area in the rear of the building. Natural granite surfaces cover the kitchen’s countertops, island and splashbacks, adding a focal point with shades of white, grey and amber.

“The natural granite stone that we were initially hesitant about fell completely in love with, precisely because of its dominant shade and dynamic texture,” said Muskal.

The home’s symmetry was ensured with the inclusion of storage spaces throughout, including a significant pantry on one side of the kitchen accessed through a set of the same cupboards.

Integrated appliances including an oven and refrigerator and the inclusion of a water tap above the hot stove feature that highlights a practical and effective kitchen layout.

“Besides aesthetics, we placed considerable emphasis on practicality in this kitchen: we created many storage places and large work surfaces and chose a Concepta system behind which electrical appliances are hidden.”

“Above the stovetop, we planned a water tap for filling pots, and the surfaces were covered with unique natural granite stone.”

Muskal’s design team and the homeowners settled on diffused lighting in the kitchen, living and dining areas.

Outside, the home features two yards, with a front yard that functions as an outdoor play area for the homeowners’ children and a back yard that feels like an extension of the living space for more adult-appropriate leisure activities.

It was important that references to North American design were light and soft in feel throughout the home, which is often sunny and warm, encompassing early modernist elements as well.

“The property owners yearned to incorporate North American design values into the new design, which made the process especially fascinating and fruitful,” Muskal concluded.