gottesman-szmelcman integrates arsuf residences into israel's coastal terrain

gottesman-szmelcman architecture has designed and completed the arsuf residences, a residential project located on israel’s coast just north of tel aviv.

gottesman-szmelcman architecture has designed and completed the arsuf residences, a residential project located on israel’s coast just north of tel aviv. the award-winning israeli-franco firm worked with fellow designers to create a building that unifies the use of both interior and exterior spaces. the design preserves the existing landscape, while maximizing sea views and natural light. the project consists of ten private residences — each resident was encouraged to design the interior to fulfill his/her needs and personal aesthetic.

the building’s shared interior spaces continue the simplistic, well-designed feel of the exterior. the use of white fair-faced concrete allows the structure to effectively integrate into the surrounding topography and coastal environment. gottesman-szmelcman‘s overall design and materials had to accomodate existing conditions.

‘the firm overcame a number of municipal and environmental concerns in their strategic design to counter an unstable terrain, a strangely shaped plot, a highly corrosive environment of sea salt and occasional high winds all while situating the 10 unique residential units to accommodate quality sea views.’ the architects did not allow these concerns to limit the project’s design potential. the structure also includes a dark reflective pool, dramatic bridges over large interior spans, and self-supporting staircases.