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Compact Tel Aviv Residence Blends Nature and Urban Living

ByMyProperty Life

In the heart of Tel Aviv’s lively Levontin neighborhood, an innovative interior design project is redefining the way we perceive compact urban living. A collaboration of acclaimed architecture studio Baranowitz + Kronenberg, the 506-square-foot Urban Refuge apartment, nestled within an Art Deco landmark, blends modern functionality with a deep-rooted connection to nature.

A person adjusts a curtain in a minimalist room with wood walls, a desk, two chairs, and a large window showing greenery outside.

Designed to double as both a residence and a workspace, the Urban Refuge apartment’s aesthetic revolves around the use of Douglas Fir wood, creating an immersive sanctuary away from the city’s dynamic energy. The continuous application of this organic material throughout the interiors fosters a warm and serene ambiance, reinforcing a sense of refuge for its inhabitant. The delicate grain and natural luminosity of the wood provide a backdrop that soothes yet stimulates creativity, making it an ideal setting for long working hours without feeling confined.

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Minimalist room with wooden walls and ceiling beams, featuring a cushioned armchair, ottoman, and a window with sheer curtains overlooking greenery outside.

Minimalist office with a wooden desk, chair, and floor lamp. The room features wood-paneled walls and ceiling, a light-colored rug, and a large window with a balcony view.

At its core, the design follows an ‘L’-shaped layout, ensuring a natural flow between spaces while maintaining a unified identity. Each section unfolds organically, revealing subtle elements of surprise without disrupting the overall cohesion. This approach emphasizes the studio’s dedication to pushing the boundaries of residential design, proving that even within a compact footprint, innovation and comfort can coexist effortlessly.

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Minimalist wooden office space with a single desk, chair, and lamp. Walls, floor, and ceiling made of light wood with a textured pattern.

One highlight of the project is its ability to amplify the potential of a small living space through strategic design choices. Clever storage solutions and multipurpose furniture enhance the functionality of each area, ensuring that every corner serves a purpose. The apartment’s lighting, both natural and artificial, is thoughtfully integrated to complement the warmth of the wood, further reinforcing the sense of harmony within the space.

Minimalist wooden office room with a central table and white office chair. A wall unit with shelves and a coffee machine is in the background.

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A minimalistic office with a wooden desk, swivel chair, floor lamp, and wall lighting. The room features wooden paneling, a carpeted floor, and sheer curtains.

Minimalist office with a wooden ceiling and walls, modern wooden desk and chair, floor lamp, kitchenette on the left, and curtain on the right. Soft lighting from above.

Minimalist wooden room with a long table, black laptop, and an armchair with an ottoman. Vertical windows near the ceiling provide soft lighting, and a curtain covers a large window.

The biophilic elements of the design, from the choice of materials to the connection between interior and exterior, create an atmosphere that feels expansive despite its modest dimensions. Large windows invite ample daylight, establishing a visual dialogue between the apartment and the bustling city outside while maintaining a tranquil retreat within. This interplay between urban energy and natural serenity is a hallmark of Baranowitz + Kronenberg’s work, reflecting their ability to craft environments that are as practical as they are poetic.

A cozy bedroom with wooden walls, featuring a bed, a chair, and large windows letting in natural light. Cream curtains and a blanket complete the serene and minimalist decor.

Minimalist bedroom with a large bed, neutral tones, and floor-to-ceiling windows showing greenery outside. A chair and side table complement the serene space.

Beyond aesthetics and function, this project also speaks to a broader movement in contemporary architecture – one that prioritizes sustainability, well-being, and a reconnection with nature in urban settings. By embracing a single material approach and focusing on longevity in design, the apartment represents a model for future residential projects that seek to balance modernity with timeless warmth.

Minimalist bedroom with light wood paneling, a white bed, and a curved wooden wardrobe. Large windows provide natural light. Neutral tones dominate the decor.

Minimalist bathroom with light wood vanity, rectangular sink, black faucet, large mirror, and a shelf with bottles and towels. Neutral color palette and frosted glass accents.

Minimalist bathroom with a rectangular basin, wall-mounted faucet, and wooden shelf holding toiletries. A frosted glass sliding door and large mirror are visible. Neutral color palette.

A dimly lit bedroom features a bed with white bedding, a side table with a lamp, and a cushioned chair. Beige curtains cover the walls, and the space has a minimalist design.

For more information on the Urban Refuge apartment or Baranowitz + Kronenberg, visit baranowitzkronenberg.com.

Photography by Amit Geron, courtesy of v2com.

Caroline Williamson is Editor-in-Chief of Design Milk. She has a BFA in photography from SCAD and can usually be found searching for vintage wares, doing New York Times crossword puzzles in pen, or reworking playlists on Spotify.

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