In a vibrant central city in Israel, a family of four—two parents working in the public sector and their young children, a five-year-old son and a ten-year-old daughter—decided it was time to elevate their quality of life. They purchased a 250 sqm duplex and turned to interior designer Michael Ohayon to transform the standard contractor layout into a sophisticated, character-filled luxury home.
The first challenge was architectural planning. The original apartment consisted of six separate rooms, but Ohayon chose to remove an entire room to create a larger, more functional kitchen—one that would become the true heart of the home. The result is a striking dual-level kitchen: on one side, the cooking area and countertop open toward the view; on the other, a raised wooden platform provides space for casual dining, morning coffee, or relaxed evening conversations. This creative configuration gives the kitchen a dynamic quality, balancing family life, hosting, and daily routines.
The overarching design language blends modern minimalism with bold bursts of color. Warm camel tones appear in the bar stools and the backs of the armchairs, adding vibrancy to the otherwise clean palette. The living room features natural stone hues, a light sofa, and a soft rug, while the kitchen incorporates natural stone cladding, smooth finishes, and rich wood veneers. A carefully designed dropped ceiling and considered lighting plan highlight the home’s contemporary lines, and a dramatic black curtain—an unconventional choice—frames the space while still allowing abundant natural light to flow in.
The color black, often avoided in homes with young children, takes on a fresh and unexpected interpretation here. Ohayon redefines it not as heavy or cold, but as a refined, timeless element that brings depth, elegance, and luxury. Paired with natural materials, lighter shades, and small injections of lively color, black becomes a central part of a warm, welcoming, and distinctly modern home.
The primary suite, located on the main level, was designed as a serene, elegant retreat with a rich, moody palette. A bold mustard-yellow bed adds a pop of unexpected energy, breaking the darker tones with confidence. Mirrored closets expand the sense of space, and the adjoining bathroom remains open to maintain a smooth, uninterrupted flow.
On the upper floor, the children received rooms tailored to their personalities. The daughter’s room features a soft pink palette with a dramatic, playful wallpaper, while the son’s room embraces a gaming-inspired atmosphere full of individuality and excitement. A spacious rooftop terrace extends from the level, serving as an outdoor family leisure area.
According to designer Michael Ohayon:
“The couple chose to work with me because of the way I use black. To me, black is a noble, timeless color that always has a place when used thoughtfully. In this project I introduced it in a non-traditional way, especially for a young family’s home, and it brought a refreshing strength to the design. Combined with natural materials and light shades, it created a layered, luxurious environment that still feels warm and inviting.”
This extensive renovation is a powerful example of how smart planning, bold design decisions, and unexpected color choices can breathe new life into a home—turning a standard property into a tailor-made living experience that truly reflects the people who inhabit it.
photographer - Elad Gonen