Hospital-cum-Hotel in Tel Aviv: The Jaffa by John Pawson

In an unlikely pairing of the ornate nature of Middle Eastern heritage and hardcore minimalism, famed British architect John Pawson has given an old French hospital a stunning makeover, transforming the building into a brand new hotel in Israeli port city.

The first luxury hotel of its kind, The Jaffa is located within the walls of a 19th-century complex that once housed Jaffa’s French Hospital. Just minutes from the beach and surrounded by the city’s most fashionable neighbourhood, The Jaffa provides a perfect blend of design, service and state-of-the-art luxury.

Pawson teamed up with a local architect Ramy Gill to transform the original structure into a blend of modern-meets-historic while remaining true to the original building’s heritage.

Just like its namesake, The Jaffa is a mix of old and new. The exquisitely restored 19th-century wing boasts lofty ceilings and arched windows, while the contemporary building embraces a more modern architectural style. The two buildings deliver a 120-room luxury hotel, 32 residences, a series of amenities and two signature restaurants – all part of the Luxury Collection by Marriott – with stunning views of the district’s old centre and the Mediterranean, and the enchanting landscape designed by Rees Roberts and Partners.

New York-based real estate developer and art collector Aby Rosen‘s adaptive-reuse project has been underway for over a decade. The painstakingly restored Roman architectural details of the 19th-century landmark harmoniously blend with Pawson’s signature minimalist aesthetic, delivering a new interpretation of luxury.

Arguably the most unique spot at The Jaffa is the Chapel, diligently restored from its days serving the School of the Sisterhood of St. Joseph. This magnificent space features recessed stained-glass windows, arched ceilings, and ornate plasterwork details. As the sun sets, the Chapel heats up as one of Tel Aviv‘s most stylish and exclusive night spots.