At the invitation of the Council for Conservation of Heritage Sites in Israel along with the Society for the Preservation of Israel Heritage Sites and Kibbutz Sdot Yam, Design Mill was commissioned to design and lead the renewal of the Anna Szenes house complex located in Kibbutz Sdot Yam.
The project includes the interior design of the museum, a visitor reception area, an auditorium and a music room. The main showcase of the project is the new permanent exhibition of the museum, which was accomplished after extensive in-depth research of Anna Szenes’ legacy. Various historical artifacts, replicas, together with photographs and personal items are shown in public for the first time, Including various multimedia stations.
Anna Szenes was born in Budapest, Hungary in 1921. At the age of 18, she immigrated to Eretz Israel and joined Kibbutz Sdot Yam to fulfill her Zionist dream. Amid World War II, she volunteered for the "Yishuv Paratroopers' Mission". As a result of her faith, she partook an airborne mission and parachuted into Europe, hence led to her unfortunate/sorrowful capture and execution in Hungary. She was only 23 when she was executed.
Ever since her youth, Anna Szenes had written diaries, poems and letters about her life. Some of her manuscripts are also on display in the permeant exhibition. Her story, a truly unique story of a young, strong women with courage, talent, passion and dedication has not only become a symbol of the State of Israel but also a role model that aspired many.
Curators of the permeant exhibition: Shunit Gal and Yehuda Wegman
Architect for the preservation of the museum complex: Gabi Magen, Yuvatim Architecture Office
Project manager: Arnon Hefetz, Council for Conservation of Heritage Sites in Israel