Interior Designer Revitalizes Historic Jaffa Flea Market Building Into Creative Hub

Interior designer and home stylist Orel Katz has transformed an ancient stone building in Jaffa's Flea Market from a neglected horse stable and warehouse into a vibrant living and creative space. The 240-square-meter two-story structure, originally Ottoman-era horse stables, was restored over a year with a budget of about one million shekels. Katz preserved the original stone arches and walls, exposing the authentic materials while adapting the space for modern living and events.

Katz, 32, who draws inspiration from Jaffa's alleys, architecture, and market artifacts, describes the building as more than a home. It serves as a venue for meetings, ideas, and cultural exchange, reflecting the unique spirit of Jaffa. The interior design emphasizes openness and freedom, avoiding unnecessary partitions to maintain the building's historic character and spaciousness. The style is described as authentic Jaffa tribal, blending local culture and the connection between old and new.

The renovated building includes a kitchen, gallery, bedroom, bathroom, and event spaces known as The Temple Jaffa, which hosts private events starting at 2,000 shekels per day. Katz also operates other businesses in the Flea Market area, including an art gallery, furniture store, and bar-restaurant. He sources and refurbishes many design pieces directly from the market, integrating them into the home’s aesthetic.

Katz views his restoration as a labor of love and a commitment to preserving Jaffa’s heritage amid recent economic challenges following regional conflicts. He aims to contribute to the neighborhood’s revival by maintaining its authenticity and fostering community through his projects. The building stands today as a testament to the coexistence of history and modern life in Jaffa, embodying Katz’s vision of a living, breathing space that tells a story in every corner.