Creating Your Dream Home in Israel: Interior Design
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Creating Your Dream Home in Israel: Interior Design

Have you been dreaming of customizing your perfect home in Israel, but the idea of coordinating a renovation from abroad seems daunting?

You're not alone.

Many of my clients feel overwhelmed at the thought of tackling a home renovation project from afar, but the truth is, with the right team in place, the experience can be both enjoyable and seamless.

In this blog, we'll explore how to make your dream home a reality in Israel, and how to overcome the challenges of renovating from abroad.

Why you need a designer

When purchasing a property within a project, you typically have various options available. It's important to review the builder's standards and select which areas you'd like to upgrade.

Alternatively, you can purchase the property as a shell and hire a designer who will bring in their team of contractors and builders to complete the apartment after the occupancy permit is obtained. However, buying a property as a shell may be more challenging, as some builders may not offer this option.

It's a common misconception that when buying a new construction property, a designer may not be necessary. However, this approach is not advisable as waiting until the end to assess the finished product may make it difficult to dispute any issues with the builder.

It's highly recommended to have a project manager overseeing the process, ensuring that the final product is completed to a higher standard and any potential issues are dealt with promptly.

Cultural differences

During my recent visit to America, I had the privilege of co-presenting with Jeffrey Mark, the founder of J. Mark Interiors, a top-tier luxury interior design firm based in Jerusalem.

Originally hailing from the Five Towns in New York, Jeffrey brings a superior level of expertise to his work in Israel that aligns with the expectations of his American clients. In his presentation, he made some excellent points, highlighting that while the standard of interior design in Israel is not necessarily lower, it can differ, and it's crucial to have a designer who comprehends your needs.

For example, Jeffrey pointed out the cultural difference of not having A/C or heating in Israeli bathrooms, which can be a challenge for his American clients who expect a comfortable experience year-round.

Another instance of cultural variation is installing a lip in the shower to prevent water from splashing everywhere. Even small details, such as converting plans from square meters to square feet, can have a significant impact.

If you have any interior design needs, don't hesitate to contact Jeffrey at info@jmarkinteriors.com.

Reach out to designers early in the purchasing process

If you're considering working with an interior designer to help you create the home of your dreams, one crucial piece of advice is to involve them in your property search process. By doing so, you can benefit from their expertise and get their input on important details that you may not have considered.

An experienced designer will be able to provide you with invaluable guidance on factors such as layout, lighting, and storage solutions, which can all have a significant impact on the overall functionality and aesthetic of your space.

By consulting with a designer during the property search, you'll have the advantage of being able to make an informed decision about which property is best suited for your needs and budget, and which one has the most potential for the transformation you envision.

Whether you're in the market for a new home or an investment property, having a designer on your side can make all the difference in helping you achieve your desired outcome.

Importance of your team

As someone who is not from Israel, and may not speak the language, putting together a competent and trustworthy team is critical for the success of your interior design project.

You'll need to work with professionals who understand your unique needs and expectations, and who can provide the level of service you require to achieve your desired outcome.

Reach out to friends, family, or your broker for recommendations on designers with a strong track record of success. Once you have a list of potential candidates, conduct interviews to find the one that is the best fit for you.

During these conversations, you can get a sense of the designer's style, approach, and communication skills, and determine whether they have the expertise and experience necessary to bring your vision to life.

By taking the time to assemble the right team and working with a designer who understands your goals and expectations, you can ensure that your project is a success from start to finish.

Conclusion

Customizing your dream home in Israel can be an exciting and rewarding experience with the right team in place. While renovating from abroad may seem daunting, it is entirely achievable with the help of experienced professionals who understand your unique needs and expectations.

By involving an interior designer in your property search, selecting the right team, and communicating your vision clearly, you can achieve your desired outcome and create a space that truly feels like home.

Whether you're looking for a complete renovation or simply updating a few key elements, working with the right team can make all the difference in ensuring a seamless and enjoyable process. 

(This article is not data-based but rather based on CapitIL’s CEO & Co-Founder Ben Levene’s personal market experience and opinions. No decisions should be made without thorough due diligence and professional financial advice.)

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