The context of this complex architectural undertaking is a site of extraordinary historical and cultural richness, set on the crown of the ancient port city of Jaffa within the walls of the Crusader citadel, with views over the roofs of the old town to the sea, along the broad sweep of the beach front and across to the skyscrapers, Art Deco, classical and modernist buildings of the Tel Aviv skyline. 

Throughout the project, the aim has been to preserve and retune the existing historic and archaeological structures whilst also adding significant contemporary elements, creating a powerful new spatial narrative, charged with atmosphere and a seamless sense of place, plans and elevations flexing in response to the site walls and to key landmarks in the surrounding cityscape. 

The project spans across a landmark 19th century neo-Roman, former French hospital and monastery and an adjoining new building. Together with local conservationist and Architects John Pawson and Ramy Gill, alongside a team of restoration experts, the eo-classical building was lovingly restored for over a decade, maintaining the raw, untouched surfaces.

The building’s façade includes outdoor corridors with arched collonades, and the plastered walls were scraped down to reveal the generations of patina that touches the building’s signage and paint patterened walls. Pawson reflects on local culture by incorporating subtle odes to traditional Middle Eastern architecture, such as the patterned screens known as Masharabiya, alongside contemporary motifs and patterns throughout the hotel. Timeless photographs by Israeli artist, Tal Shochat are featured in every guest room.

The Pawson modernist lobby, located in the new building, features remnants of a 13th century Crusader’s bastion wall, uncovered during the excavation of the project, which contrasts with the mid-century design classics from Shiro Kuramata and Pierre Paulin and modern art by Damien Hirst. The U-shaped historical building, together with the new building, surround the heart of the space – a secluded, luscious courtyard enveloped under a canopy of trees that provides a tranquil oasis within the bustling city. Here, guests can enjoy either of the two restaurants or simply relaxin the outdoor space.

Products used:

Lobby

Shiro Kuramata sofa and chairs

Pierre Paulin sofas and chairs

Preben Fabricius & Jorgen Kastholm sofas

John Pawson Sheshbesh tables (manufactured by B&B Italia)

Chapel

Cini Boeri Botolo chairs 

Don Camillo

Niels Moller chairs

Golda’s Deli

Thonet furniture

Outdoor Spaces

Carlos Motta, Timbó range chairs and sofas

Unopiu furniture for The Pool

Hotel Rooms

John Pawson bed, sofa, tv mirror & shelving unit (manufactured by B&B Italia)

Hotel Suites

Pierre Paulin Elysee seats and sofas

Tub chair and Halyiard chair from Wegner

E15 Habibi coffee tables