Erez Ella
Biography
ABOUT
Erez Ella was born in Jerusalem in 1971 and studied architecture at Tel Aviv University and TU Delft in the Netherlands.
Erez founded HQ Architects in Tel Aviv in 2008 after spending several years as an Associate at OMA (1999–2005) and as a Principal at REX (2006–2008). During this time, he led the TVCC project in Beijing, directed the design of the second scheme for the Whitney Museum in New York, and, together with his former partner, oversaw the design of the Wyly Theatre in Dallas.
From Tel Aviv, Erez leads HQ Architects’ design work on more than 60 projects in Israel and around the world, varying in scale and program. HQ Architects’ expanding portfolio includes projects across multiple sectors, such as public spaces and infrastructure, cultural and educational institutions, as well as offices, hotels, and retail developments.
He currently leads projects in urban design and buildings within complex urban environments, incorporating infrastructure, transportation, healthcare, and mixed-use developments.
Erez’s contributions extend beyond architectural design. He co-curated the Israeli Pavilion at the 2012 Venice Biennale of Architecture and is the co-editor-in-chief of the book Aircraft Carrier – American Ideas and Israeli Architectures after 1973 (Hatje Cantz, 2012). In 2011, he established and continues to lead the ‘Mechanism of Design and Urbanism’ research unit at the Bezalel School of Architecture. Erez lectures extensively in Israel and abroad.
He was named one of The Most Promising Architects Under the Age of 40 by Wallpaper magazine and one of The Most Promising Professionals Under the Age of 40 in Israel by The Marker magazine. Additionally, he serves as the Chair of the Board of Directors for the Jerusalem Season of Culture.
AWARDS
- HQ Architects Best practice in the Middle East & Africa – Architizer A+Award 2022
- Erez Ella named “The Most Promising Architects Under the Age of 40” by the Wallpaper Magazine
- BIGSEE Award – Architecture Award 2021 – Fein 1 Central Apartment Complex
PROJECTS TO BE PRESENTED DURING THE EVENT
Project #1: HaMaon Complex
Start year: 01.12.2022
A mixed-use development with a strong communal and public character, designed to serve the local community and attract visitors. Located at a key junction between three contrasting neighborhoods, next to a major road and a future Metro station serving 100,000 passengers weekly, the project responds to its unique setting and diverse urban needs. It includes community spaces, cultural and recreational areas, and temporary craft spaces, adding value to the city. The complex’s distinct form features four primary facades, eliminating a rear facade and creating a fully accessible, three-dimensional urban space. Its uniform grid becomes more pronounced on the upper floors. Partially elevated, it offers open and covered public areas, including playgrounds, sports gardens, and a cultural square. Public functions extend to the -7m Metro level, strengthening the link between infrastructure and public life, transforming the complex into a vibrant destination.
Project #2: Jerusalem Academy for Music and Dance: New Inter- Arts Center
Start year: 03.02.2012
A bespoke new building for the world-renowned Jerusalem Academy of Music and Dance, designed to enhance interaction and cross-fertilization between disciplines. As an Advanced Inter-Arts Center, it addresses the campus’s previous lack of a proper performance space. Designed by HQ Architects and HWKN, the building provides the Academy with the facilities needed to fulfill its role. Organized around a central double-height space, the design fosters collaboration between dance and music. The new facilities include a 115-seat recital hall, a dance studio, a 90-seat jazz and improvised music studio, a 60-seat vocal and opera studio, and 14 practice and teaching rooms. High-end amenities, combined with dynamic shared spaces, create a vibrant atmosphere where creativity thrives.
Project #3: Haifa Port 301
Start year: 01.01.2024
Building 301 in Haifa Port is a key gateway and urban icon, bridging the city and waterfront. This mixed-use commercial and office development enhances public accessibility with dynamic facades responding to their context. The ground floor activates the public realm with retail and plaza connections, while terraces and flexible office spaces create a vibrant work environment. A diagonal circulation invites visitors to experience panoramic city and port views. As part of Haifa’s waterfront renewal, the project strengthens urban connectivity, redefines public space, and celebrates the city’s maritime heritage.