Global investment group Nakash Holdings has revealed plans to transform a 13th century prison in Tel Aviv, Israel, into a five-star luxury hotel operated by its Setai hotel brand.
The historic coastal site, known as the ‘Kishle’, was originally constructed by the Ottoman Empire as a prison, on a stretch of land that had been home to a fortress during the Crusades.
After recently buying the land, Nakash commissioned researchers and restoration experts in stone, iron and woodwork to examine the site. Archaeologists, working with the Israel Antiquities Authority, unearthed remains dating back to the Crusader Period through the Ottoman era.
Israeli practice Feigin Architects are leading the restoration of the original buildings, and integrating them into the new hotel. The original Kishle, including surviving wooden ceilings and ironwork, has been preserved, while wooden doors and windows have been recreated to emulate the original. Lacquered walls and grand chandeliers have also been incorporated.
The former prison yards will serve as the hotel's front and rear courtyards and a large arch at the entrance bears the seal of Abdul Hamid II, 34th sultan of the Ottoman Empire, who rose to power over 100 years ago.
The architects are adding two additional floors, and a new wing designed in the style of the existing structures, making room for 110 rooms and 10 suites.
London studio Ara Design have planned the interiors, blending Middle Eastern and Mediterranean elements with a contemporary style. Oak furnishings and leather panels are contrasted with antique Arabic wall patterns cascading above the beds.
Leisure amenities include a Mediterranean restaurant, four levels of glass-panelled terraces, a pool deck with cabanas, five events halls, and a bar surrounded by reclaimed timber from the building's original roof.
A spa, called The Spa at The Setai, Tel Aviv, and a Turkish hammam will also feature. Guests can choose from a variety of massages and treatments in “a rejuvenating, tranquil space with world-class staff.”
The hotel is scheduled to open in early 2018. It will be Naksh's second Setai in Israel, following the recent opening of the Sea of Galilee property in May 2017, and third globally, joining The Setai, Miami Beach.
"We’re excited to extend the prestige and sophistication of the Setai brand in Israel with our third property," said Bruno H. de Schuyter, the hotel’s general manager. "The 13th-century structure that is the foundation of the new hotel is unlike any other, and we took meticulous care in preserving and infusing important historic elements into the transformation of the building.
“Guests will be surrounded by a unique atmosphere of 'old meets new,' while experiencing first-class amenities and services in what will be the most superior five-star hotel in Tel Aviv."
Nakash Holdings is the private investment office of the Nakash family, the founders of the Jordache denim jeans brand. The company manages a multibillion-dollar portfolio of investments including aviation, retail, agriculture, transportation, manufacturing and real estate.
