Furniture Buyer Transforms Rented Tel Aviv Apartment Through Extensive DIY Renovation
Mara Gani, a 30-year-old furniture buyer, has spent the past four and a half years transforming her rented 68-square-meter apartment on Mazeh Street in central Tel Aviv into a unique European-style home. After moving in with a roommate, Mara agreed with the landlord to live rent-free for several months in exchange for renovating the previously vacant apartment, which had been closed for about six months following the death of the former tenant. Mara undertook a year-long renovation, replacing flooring, installing a new kitchen, painting, and addressing a bathroom leak, often working alongside contractors to reduce costs while achieving her vision.
With a background in interior design and furniture procurement, Mara uses her home as a testing ground for new materials and styles. Her evolving taste has led her to incorporate diverse elements, from Danish teak furniture to colorful accents and intentionally imperfect, natural-looking pieces. The living room and dining area developed gradually, featuring items from brands like United Strangers and Ferm Living, alongside vintage finds and custom shelving originally intended for the kitchen.
The kitchen itself was assembled from simple IKEA units painted in red and green, installed in an unconventional layout but embraced by Mara. She also integrated stainless steel shelves inspired by a trip to India and a lighting fixture by Valerie Objects. The bedroom evolved from a blue palette to a calmer white and brown scheme, with customized IKEA wardrobes enhanced by veneer fronts and Zara Home handles. Mara’s approach embraces experimentation and flexibility, often sourcing unique items from platforms like Etsy and local marketplaces.
Mara’s story highlights how a rented urban apartment can become a personalized, evolving home through creativity, hands-on renovation, and a willingness to adapt. The apartment remains a work in progress, reflecting her changing style and professional insights into furniture and design.
