Mishkenot Sha'ananim, Jerusalem

Client:	Jerusalem Foundation
Location:	Jerusalem Yemin Moshe
Architect / Planner:	Gobi Kertes
Budget:	$12 M – 48M shekels
Completion:	2001

Mishkenot Sha'ananim is housed in a famous historical building dating from 1860; it was the first residential building that Sir Moses Montefiore built for Jews outside the Old City walls. It is an inspiring and charming building, offering a spectacular view of the Tower of David, the Old City walls and the Judean Desert. In 1973 the Jerusalem Foundation initiated the restoration of the historical building and the construction of the Mishkenot Sha'ananim guesthouse. Since the extensive restorations were completed it has become renowned for its dynamic cultural and artistic activities. The project includes a guest house for foreign dignitaries, writers and intellectuals as well as an auditorium and a variety of functions required for operations conducted in concerts through the activity began to theoretical views.

The scope of work included rehabilitation of the historic building built during the time of Moses Montefiore and adding a new auditorium building and connecting them in a meaningful way. The challenge was to integrate all three diverse uses, while ensuring a high standard of conservation principles in creating a unique environmental development.