In the heart of Tel Aviv’s Neve Tzedek district, the city’s oldest hotel gets a luxurious facelift as Elkonin Tel Aviv. This 44-room boutique sanctuary intertwines a rich history with contemporary aesthetics, courtesy of the Parisian interior design maestro ICONIQUE and the architectural expertise of Bar Orian.
In 1913, this structure bore witness to the footfalls of eminent personalities, including Albert Einstein, King Abdullah of Jordan, and David Ben-Gurion, Israel’s first prime minister. The Franco-Israeli owner, Domonic Romano, brought it back to life after its acquisition in 2004, ensuring that the essence of Tel Aviv’s premier hospitality establishment remained intact.
Bar Orian’s keen architectural intervention retained the historic fabric of this iconic building, preserving its stone pillars, railings, and expansive window sills. Adding a modern touch is the glass-encased eight-story structure leading up to a rooftop on the seventh floor, brilliantly melding Tel Aviv’s past and present.
Elkonin’s interiors, meticulously curated by Adriana Schor of ICONIQUE, echo European elegance. With custom furnishings and Art et Floritude lighting, the ambience blends Tel Aviv’s cultural richness and the French Riviera’s charm. Neutral tones alongside accents of rattan, bespoke Italian terrazzo, and ceramic tiles set the backdrop for its tranquil rooms, each boasting Clarins-stocked bathrooms.
The pièce de résistance is the ground-floor L’Epoque by Robuchon restaurant. It promises a gourmet journey in an intimate setting, illuminated by natural daylight and evening candlelight. The impeccable tableware from Bernardaud and Christofle and furniture inspired by design legends Wormley and Jean Royere elevate the dining experience. For a more casual setting, the Bar Lounge, adjacent to L’Epoque, operates from dawn to dusk.
But Elkonin Tel Aviv is more than just a luxury lodging. It’s an art and culture canvas. Adriana Schor has handpicked art from renowned Israeli and global artists like James Goldcrown. At the same time, Tom Hegen’s aerial shots of salt fields provide a visual treat, harmonizing with the hotel’s Mediterranean vibe. As a nod to its artistic lineage, a 1920s fresco, brought back to life by preservation artists Shay Farkash and Eli Shaltiel, graces the second-floor stairwell.
Completing the Elkonin experience is a subterranean oasis. With three basement levels, the hotel houses its operations centre, a world-class restaurant kitchen, and a luxurious spa by the French wellness brand Clarins. Guests can indulge in treatments within the serene white and beige rooms, unwind in the relaxation lounge, or immerse in the authentic hammam.
Starting at $520 USD per night, including breakfast, Elkonin Tel Aviv beckons travellers seeking a blend of history, art, and luxury. Dive deeper into the Elkonin experience by visiting https://elkonintelaviv.com/.
Written by: Octavia Koo