Architectural features and function

© Goethe-Institut

The house is characterised by a generous, unique style, influenced by the landscape around it, which shaped Mendelsohn’s work. The staircase is spiral like sea-snail shells; there are high, round windows reminiscent of ship’s portholes. The architect would have liked to make the decisions about the entire interior décor as well, but Weizmann’s wife Vera was adamant that she wanted to do that herself. All furniture and objects are originals, mainly imported from England or France, some from the 18th and 19th centuries.

© Goethe-Institut

After Chaim Weizmann was elected president in 1948, the house became the official residence of the head of state. After his death in 1952, the presidential residence was relocated to Jerusalem. Weizmann and his wife are – according to their own wishes – buried in the garden of their residence in Rehovot.

Erich Mendelsohn died in 1953 in the United States where he had settled.