001 The New Dorms

Architects: Schwartz Besnosoff Architects; TeMA Landscape Architecture, 2026

A chance to get acquainted with the new Saul and Joyce Brandman Student Dormitory and Faculty Residence Park at the Edmond J. Safra campus of the Hebrew University on Givat Ram. One of the largest projects built on the campus, the constructed sections extend across an area of 38,000 m², in addition to two acres of open land and green roofs.

The project consists of lattice-like construction that positions the buildings perpendicular to the topography – in the spirit of the original construction on the campus – and it is enveloped by green surroundings. The setup of the buildings highlights the slope, conserves many of the existing trees, and creates a continuum of courtyards, passageways and usable roofs on different levels.

The entrance level creates a link between the dormitories and serves as a hub for the occupants’ shared living arrangements. It includes offices, classrooms, a space for lessons and lectures, areas for group and individual study, rest areas, as well as tiered bleachers – both indoor and outdoor, which facilitate social interactions and informal activities among the students.

The complex has around 900 beds for students, most of which are in studio apartments for students living on their own. Next to them, there is a high-rise residence hall intended for faculty members and PhD students who have recently returned from abroad, consisting of 2- and 3-bedroom apartments. Two preschools are located on the ground floor of the building.

The location of the project next to a light rail stop and to the new high-tech park reinforces the connection between the campus, the city, and nearby employment zones and research facilities.

The project was established using a Build-Operate-Transfer (BOT) model and will be managed for the Hebrew University by Shikun & Binui for a period of 25 years.

The 75-minute tours will be led by the architect Gaby Schwartz.