Get to know our housemate Tamar, and learn how she celebrates Hanukkah in London

Tamar chatted to us about how her journey lead her to Mason & Fifth and how she's maintaining her holiday spirit this year, while away from loved ones.
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Tamar has been a part of The Italian Building community for the past three months and has become an integral part of our home, taking part in our experiences, injecting her personality into the space and fully immersing herself in ‘living well’. Read our Q+A with her and learn more about living with Mason & Fifth.


Tell us about yourself.

I’m an artist, and a student of fine arts. I mainly focus on sculpting, drawing  and painting. As part of a student exchange program I came from Israel to study a term in Slade School of Fine Arts, here in London.

What’s your story, how did you end up living at The Italian Building?

Since I moved to the city alone and only for a few months, I found that Mason & Fifth is the perfect solution for me to have an easy move. I adore the design and the artistic vibe.

Can you tell us about Hanukkah?

Briefly, Hanukkah is a Jewish holiday celebrated over eight days, In memory of the Victory of the Hasmoneans in the revolt against the Greeks and the inauguration of the Second Temple. We celebrate the triumph of light over darkness and the miracle of the oil tin, that miraculously managed to illuminate the temple for eight days in sufficient quantity for one day. In memory of this, we light candles and eat fried oily food.

What are the family traditions throughout Hanukkah? Any particular ones which you take part in?

For me, it’s a very happy holiday where you meet every night with family, friends and neighbours to light candles, sing Hanukkah songs and eat the delicious holiday foods.

How different will Hanukkah be for you this year as you’re in London?

Being away from home on Hanukkah was a bit pinching in the heart. It is not the same to celebrate this holiday remotely and without my loved ones. To maintain the holiday spirit I decided to organise an evening to mark the holiday with friends from the building.

Left to right: George, Mariana, Tamar, Ben, Natalie, Bianca and Wally.

Hanukkah is all about bringing people together and expressing your thanks, what are you thankful for this year?

I am grateful for the opportunity to create, study, live and absorb this wonderful city. And for all the new friendships and experiences I have had these last three months.

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How do I book a tour?

Click here to book a tour.

How long can I stay?

We welcome you to stay for just a few nights or live forever. Mason & Fifth, Bermondsey currently only has availability for 3month+ stays but our future buildings will offer flexibility for you to experience the city how you want to.

What services are included?

You’ll just pay one monthly bill which includes all the usual amenities like water, gas, electricity and internet. On top of that laundry, housekeeping and free use of the house biked are included, along with a monthly experience calendar and an on-site House Manager.

How many people live at Mason & Fifth?

The Italian Building is home to 28 studios, with a large shared living room, kitchen, courtyard and laundry and fully equipped private studios for when you want time to yourself.

Can I bring my pet?

Any pets need to be vetted by our house manager.

What buildings do we operate?

Our team is working hard to find new locations to develop Mason & Fifth across London and beyond. Our aim is to create and operate a series of beautifully designed buildings that offer freedom to travel to incredible locations, for however long you want to. Whether that’s a hotel, hostel, serviced apartment or co-living block, we can refurbish, develop and operate existing buildings or new developments. We’re ideally looking for locations in vibrant neighbourhoods. If you have a building that needs managing, or would like to recommend a site to us, please do get in touch at hello@mason-fifth.com.