In Ada – My Mother the Architect, filmmaker Yael Melamede presents a poignant portrait of her mother, Ada Karmi-Melamede, a pioneering Israeli architect whose groundbreaking work embodies the nation’s democratic ideals. Balancing the demands of career and motherhood, Ada’s journey reveals the sacrifices of a trailblazer largely unknown beyond Israel, highlighting a unique mother-daughter bond amid a fragile nation’s unrealized aspirations. This project is currently seeking funds to bring Ada’s inspiring story to life and share her legacy with the world.

Project Sypnosis

ADA – My Mother the Architect is a deeply moving documentary film directed by Yael Melamede, who is also the daughter of renowned architect Ada Karmi-Melamede. The film presents a portrait of Ada, one of the most accomplished female architects in the world, whose work remains largely unknown outside her home country of Israel. Ada Karmi-Melamede is a true pioneer in architecture, celebrated for her innovative and socially conscious designs. She played a significant role in shaping Israel’s architectural landscape, with notable projects including the Supreme Court building in Jerusalem, the Open University, Ben Gurion Airport, and numerous civic institutions across the country.

The film explores the challenges Ada faced as a successful working mother during a time when many women had to make impossible choices between career and family. Despite her personal sacrifices, Ada’s work embodied some of Israel’s highest democratic ideals. Yael Melamede offers an intimate look at the unique bond between mother and daughter, reflecting on her own journey as a filmmaker and former architect. The documentary also addresses the fragile state of a nation grappling with unrealized dreams, highlighting how art and architecture can influence society and the sacrifices made by those who strive to create a better future.

Director Bio

Yael Melamede is a co-founder of SALTY Features, an independent media production company based in New York City. She has delivered a lecture titled On Producing, sharing insights from her career in film. Melamede’s producer credits include award-winning fiction and documentary films that have been showcased worldwide, highlighting her significant contributions to the film industry.