Screenwriter Elad Chen Transforms His Home Into a Bright, Playful Family Space in Moshav Habonim

Screenwriter Elad Chen, known for popular Israeli TV series such as "Elisha," "Kfula," and "Soshered HaTza'ir," and his wife Yaara, an engineer, dreamed of creating a joyful, humorous, and bright home for their family in Moshav Habonim. After purchasing a 200-square-meter house overlooking the sea, they embarked on a major renovation that took nine months and cost approximately 900,000 shekels. The house features three bedrooms, a secure room (mamad), a studio, and a rooftop terrace with sea views, which is planned for future design.

Originally built in 2010 with a 1990s style, the house had many issues including poor space layout, bad acoustics, plumbing problems, a basic kitchen, a non-functional fireplace, small rooms, and a neglected garden. The renovation involved demolishing interior walls, redesigning the kitchen for better functionality and storage, and installing a large metal bookshelf that doubles as a railing to open up the space and improve energy flow. The couple aimed for a colorful, vacation-like atmosphere reflecting their humor and personality.

The design process included two months of planning and six months of execution, covering electrical, plumbing, carpentry, ironwork, lighting, textiles, and art. Special features include a rounded embroidered entrance closet crafted by the designer, a lowered ceiling with acoustic insulation and magnetic lighting, and a studio that doubles as a family viewing room with personalized seating and framed posters from Chen’s series. The bathrooms were expanded and modernized, with creative use of space and materials.

Interior designer Liron Ben Dror emphasized the harmonious collaboration with the clients and professionals, highlighting the importance of trust and creative freedom. She noted the unique elements like the embroidered closet symbolize the project’s humor and creativity. The renovation transformed the house into a bright, functional, and personalized home that tells the family’s story in every corner.

The couple lives in the house with their 14-year-old twin daughters. The project underscores the value of thoughtful demolition, creative problem-solving, and investing in art to bring soul to a home. The renovation team included carpentry by Harshko, contractor Roy Aknin, and design by Liron Ben Dror.