Draft:Raphael de la Fontaine

Life and career
Raphael de la Fontaine is an international architect whose work is characterized by a deep understanding of cultural nuances and a commitment to innovative design. Born in San Francisco, California, on February 1, 1981, Raphael's early life was marked by extensive travel due to his father's diplomatic career. This unique upbringing allowed him to live in diverse cities including Frankfurt am Main, Alexandria, São Paulo, Santiago de Chile, Jerusalem, New York, Switzerland, and Tel Aviv, providing him with a rich tapestry of cultural experiences that profoundly influence his architectural vision.

Raphael pursued his Bachelor of Architecture at Pratt Institute and his Master of Architecture at Yale University, where he was honored with the Alpha Rho Chi Medal for leadership, service, and professional merit. His early career included collaborations with architectural luminaries such as Frank Gehry, Peter Eisenman, and Santiago Calatrava, and firms like Kohn Pedersen Fox (KPF) and Cesar Pelli. These experiences across North America, Europe, Asia, and the Middle East honed his skills in mixed-use developments, hotels, museums, and airports.

Founding of DLF Architecture
In 2021, Raphael founded De La Fontaine Architecture (DLF Architecture), driven by a vision to blend innovative design with cultural sensitivity. The firm quickly rose to prominence, known for its commitment to sustainable architecture and creative solutions. In 2024, D-BLK Architects, under Raphael's leadership, was recognized as the top architecture firm in Israel by Dun's 100.

Midtown Jerusalem (2020)
Midtown Jerusalem, nestled on historic Jaffa Road, seamlessly blends tradition with contemporary urban living. This expansive project includes 1000 residences, commercial spaces, a public school, two hotels, and offices, creating a comprehensive urban ecosystem. A highlight is the transformation of a historic landmark into a luxurious hotel, preserving heritage while introducing modern amenities. The public piazza fosters community engagement, making Midtown Jerusalem a vibrant blend of history and contemporary urban living.

Vertical (2022)
Vertical is a visionary vertical city within Tel Aviv’s bustling business district. Designed with WSP Landscape Architects and MSP Engineers, the development includes a vertical park and a "green waterfall" that connects the ground floor to the tower tops. The project features three towers, the tallest at 470 meters with 111 stories, seamlessly combining residential, commercial, and leisure spaces. This project sets a new benchmark for mixed-use developments, offering dynamic synergy and breathtaking city views.

Silk (2022)
Silk stands as a 40-story architectural marvel in Tel Aviv, merging ultra-modern design with the Bauhaus tradition. The tower houses a theater, state-of-the-art offices, luxury apartments, and a sky garden with an infinity pool and public viewing terrace. It serves as a hub of innovation and activity, encapsulating sophistication and functionality.

Ludvipol (2023)
Ludvipol, positioned at the entrance of Tel Aviv, captures the attention of over a million daily passersby. Spanning 230,000 square meters, it offers a luxurious hotel, state-of-the-art theater, comprehensive transportation network, and an expansive expo center. Ludvipol is a landmark of modernity and inclusivity, creating a vibrant urban environment.

Ilica (2023)
Ilica, located on the historic Grafokarton factory site in Zagreb, is a residential oasis combining contemporary design with urban village living. Featuring balconies, terraces, and private gardens, the development promotes interaction and community. Its strategic location offers residents the convenience of city life and the tranquility of nature.

Metropark (2022)
Metropark, situated near a major metro station in Tel Aviv, features three towering structures blending office spaces with residential units. It includes a park, hotel, and various public amenities, enhancing the community experience. Metropark exemplifies urban connectivity and inclusive environments.

Rainbow (2022)
Rainbow, in Tel Aviv’s Ashkool neighborhood, transforms the former ‘Sde Dov’ airport site into a vibrant community hub. The development includes 480 housing units, a 39-story tower, and seven nine-floor buildings connected by a shared courtyard. It blends urban sophistication with resort-style living, featuring swimming pools, cinemas, and community gardens.

Hebrew University Campus (2023)
The Hebrew University Campus project focuses on expanding and enhancing the campus, with improved public spaces and building connections. It includes a new state-of-the-art building with a piazza and grand staircases, offering panoramic views from a viewing deck. The campus promotes creativity, intellectual exchange, and sustainability.

Lev Hair (2021)
Lev Hair, meaning heart of the city, redefines Ramat Hasharon’s downtown landscape. Strategically located at Sokolov Street and Weitzman Street, it offers vibrant mixed-use communities with excellent connectivity to Tel Aviv. The project includes retail spaces, office spaces, rental apartments, a hotel, and a public park, creating a dynamic urban environment.

America’s House (Tel Aviv)
America’s House is a landmark project in Tel Aviv that blends residential, commercial, and cultural spaces. This project includes luxury apartments, a boutique hotel, office spaces, and a cultural center. Its design integrates modern architecture with elements of traditional Israeli design.

Eurocom (Tel Aviv)
Eurocom is a mixed-use development in Tel Aviv featuring office spaces, residential units, and retail spaces. The project is designed to create a seamless integration of living and working environments, with a focus on accessibility and urban connectivity.

Beit Hanaara (Hod Hasharon)


Beit Hanaara is a residential development in Hod Hasharon designed to offer a blend of modern luxury and traditional aesthetics. The project includes spacious apartments, communal areas, and recreational facilities, creating a cohesive and vibrant community.

Recognition
Raphael de la Fontaine's work has been widely recognized for its innovation and impact on contemporary architecture. In 2024, D-BLK Architects, under his leadership, was named the top architecture firm in Israel by Dun's 100. Raphael also received the AIA Colorado Award for his project, the New Haven Basilica at Yale. Additionally, he was awarded the Alpha Rho Chi Medal from Yale University for leadership, service, and professional merit.