An Old Arab Home Turns into a Luxurious Hotel
The starting point was an old, dilapidated Arab house. The goal was to turn it into luxurious vacation accommodations. Along the way, I had to deal with the Antiquities Authority and come up with ways to satisfy their stipulations. When the demolition, renovations and reconstruction were complete, the result was a stunning, four-level structure containing suites for both couples and families, a spa area, inviting lobbies, a dining room, and a yard with a magnificent view. I chose a palette of natural colors—stone, sand, touches of onyx marble and Calacatta gold, and a bit of blue. The flooring, restored natural stone, blends perfectly with both the exterior and interior. The mysterious-looking caves found in some areas of the house fit right in as part of a recurring motif of arches and domes. The niches are outfitted with custom-made carpentry and the beds conceal lighting that lends them a lovely glow. Flowing linen curtains enhance the padded window ledges. To provide the ultimate vacation experience, the bathrooms feature double sinks and a luxurious Jacuzzi.
