Jaffa's Former Convent Transformed Into Mixed Jewish-Arab Housing Complex

A historic convent complex in Jaffa's Ajami neighborhood, previously belonging to the Maronite Church and housing a school, has undergone urban renewal and reopened as a private residential compound. Designed by architect Pitzu Kedem's firm, the project, which was populated a few months ago, now features 62 apartments for Jewish and Arab families. A key aspect of the renewal was opening the complex's formerly enclosing wall and central courtyard to the public, creating new passages and allowing neighborhood residents to traverse and spend time within the compound. The historic kurkar stone wall was preserved, but two new openings were added in coordination with the Tel Aviv-Jaffa Municipality's conservation department, facilitating pedestrian access from adjacent areas.

The complex comprises two buildings: a preserved two-story historic structure and a new four-story building with a rooftop. The preserved building houses three apartments, while the new building contains 59 units. The project includes various apartment types, with a penthouse reportedly selling for approximately 32 million shekels. The design emphasizes a separation between vehicular and pedestrian traffic, reflecting a flexible approach to preservation that adapts historical structures for contemporary use while maintaining public accessibility.

Architectural details from the site's history, including the original kurkar wall and the colonnade of the former school building, have been integrated into the new design. The new building features large windows and balconies facing the internal garden, while the preserved building's interior design, led by architect Ayla Shvartsberg, echoes its historical architectural values. The project also addressed the relocation of 13 families who previously resided in the complex, offering them financial compensation, alternative housing, or the option to return to the renovated compound.

Kedem stated that the project aims to serve as a model for opening private spaces to the public and integrating existing residents into new developments, potentially signaling future urban development in North Jaffa. However, the renewal also raises questions about the impact of such gentrification projects on the urban and social fabric of the Ajami neighborhood, questioning whether physical openness is sufficient for true urban integration.