Navigating remote home renovation before moving to Israel
- Diana Weininger
- Jan 11
- 4 min read
Updated: Jan 22
Home design plays a meaningful role in connecting with the new physical and cultural environment upon moving to Israel. An in-depth design process, professional project management, and good communication, ensure long-term satisfaction with both the journey and outcome. Not only does a successful, well-executed home renovation create a beautiful and tailored space, it becomes a formative experience in the transition into an exciting new chapter.
Moving to Israel: Designing a home to support change and transition
Home. an anchor during periods of change and adjustment, offering a setting for connection, as well as physical and emotional recharging. To support the transition to life in Israel, it must thoughtfully address everyday needs, such as storage, cooking, hosting, hobbies, shared time alongside privacy, while reflecting personal taste and cultivating a sense of belonging. A professional, attentive process, based on trust and collaboration between the homeowners and the designer, crafts a home that feels personal and familiar, bringing a unique vision to life.
Getting familiar with local living standards ahead of moving to Israel
The average Israeli home may differ from what newcomers and Olim-hadashim are accustomed to. Floor plans tend to be compact, kitchens and bathrooms relatively smaller, and storage space limited. The infrastructure and technical solutions, such as water heating systems, air conditioning, or the commonly used building materials - vary from those used elsewhere. In addition, alongside new developments, older apartments on the market offer charm and potential, yet require significant resources to be brought up to a contemporary living standard. Building or renovating are complex undertakings, that require careful planning and professional guidance to fully realize a property’s potential, especially when homeowners are not present on site. The main challenge of managing a remote home renovation arises from a lack of experience and familiarity with local practices as well as with a reliable network of professionals. An in-depth design process, combined with professional project management, and complemented by clear, ongoing communication, lay the foundation for long-term satisfaction with both the journey and the outcome. When thoughtfully planned and well managed, a home renovation project delivers not only a tailored, well-designed space, but a positive experience contributing to a soft landing in Israel.
Choosing the right professional to lead a remote home renovation before moving to Israel - Architect or Interior Designer?
Understanding the distinction between architects and interior designers, generally, and within the Israeli context, is a first step toward choosing the right professional to lead a remote home renovation project. The architect’s work focuses on designing the building itself - its exterior, systems, and rapport with the surrounding urban and geographic environment. Architects are also licensed to obtain building permits from municipal authorities. An interior designer’s expertise, on the other hand, lies in shaping the day-to-day living experience within the space, from layout to design, both functionally and aesthetically. Home renovations focus mostly on interior work, and changes made to the interior layout do not require a building permit in Israel.
Interior designers regularly collaborate with a range of consultants and other professionals according to the project's specific needs. for example - engineers, when structural changes are required (That said, creative, practical design solutions can often be achieved without involving complex or costly engineering work). When partnering with an interior designer for a remote home renovation, it is also important to take into account their availability to provide professional support, addressing challenges that naturally come up during on-site work to the homeowners and professional team.
Remote home renovation before moving to Israel: A comprehensive approach
Retaining an interior designer while still in the property-scouting stage is advised, in order to assess the strengths and limitations of potential homes. Once a property is selected, the designer works closely with the homeowners to maximize its potential, tailoring it to their needs, style, and budget, ensuring every aspect is thoughtfully addressed. Detailed drawings and specifications are then prepared to enable accurate budgeting. With costs clearly defined and the professional team in place, the renovation can move forward. As ongoing coordination and oversight are essential in such complex projects, the designer’s involvement in the construction phase is vital during a remote renovation, when the homeowners are not physically available. Acting as the client’s representative, the designer serves as a professional liaison for contractors and suppliers, advises and oversees work on site, and plays a key role in ensuring the project is carried out seamlessly.
Moving to Israel: The remote home renovation playbook
Communication is key: Regular Zoom meetings and email updates establish a clear, ongoing communication channel, enabling active involvement in the process, even from afar.
Initial property assessment: Evaluating potential properties to support an informed and confident purchase decision.
Customized layout: A comprehensive design process, that includes tailoring the home to the client’s needs, agendas and preferences, along with full coordination of the infrastructure: electrical, lighting, plumbing, heating, air conditioning, custom carpentry etc.
Design concept: Taking into account the geographic and architectural context, as well as the homeowners’ personal style, a conceptual presentation outlines the design language, and then guides the material selections.
Purchasing and styling: Sourcing finishing materials, such as flooring and wall tiles, parquet, sinks, faucets, etc. as well as furniture, lighting, appliances, textiles, art and more.
Project management and on-site oversight: Detailed drawings and specifications are prepared to ensure accurate budgeting. With the professional team in place and costs clearly defined - the renovation goes ahead. Regular site visits are conducted throughout the construction period to maintain close oversight.
Soft landing: Coordinating the final preparations before move-in, from furniture deliveries and appliance installation to connecting essential utilities such as gas, cable, and internet.
The process delivers a professional, seamless and friendly experience, tailored for remote home renovation. With experienced guidance, the project remains focused and enjoyable leading to an optimal result, stress is minimized and unnecessary mistakes are avoided. You're invited to Schedule a free Zoom consultation here, to gain additional clarity and learn more. Wishing you a warm welcome and good luck!
