Tel Aviv Approves Plan to Preserve Historic Beit Romano, Build New Towers

The Tel Aviv District Planning and Building Commission has given final approval to a plan for the renewal of the historic Beit Romano complex and adjacent areas, following public outcry over its potential demolition. The plan ensures the historic building, which currently houses the "Teder" cultural hub and other venues, will be preserved for public use. This decision comes after the building was sold in 2022 to the real estate company YBOX for approximately NIS 370 million, sparking widespread public protest fearing the loss of the cultural space to luxury high-rises.

The approved plan, spanning about 11.2 dunams along Eilat Street and Jaffa Road, integrates urban preservation with intensive development. The Beit Romano building itself will be designated for public use, with specific provisions to maintain its architectural character and the cultural activities it hosts. "We are ensuring the future of one of Tel Aviv's unique cultural centers by transferring spaces in the building into public hands," stated Erez Ben Eliezer, district planner for Tel Aviv at the Planning Administration. The plan allows for additional floors to be added above the existing structure, provided its historical volume, internal courtyard, and open passages are maintained.

As part of the agreement between the municipality and the developer, the building's roof will operate as an "active roof" for the public. In the eastern sections of the complex, approximately 240 housing units, including affordable housing options, will be constructed in towers reaching about 50 stories. Alongside the residences, the development will include around 3,500 square meters for commerce, employment, and built public spaces. Two other historic buildings within the complex, Beit Ponrov and Beit Brin, will also be preserved under the urban conservation plan.