“The journey begins within a grand atrium of glass and Jerusalem stone. The purity of the design is imposing and everything looks hand-crafted. A high glazed ceiling lets in an abundance of natural light and is dressed with gently gathered drapery that lends elegance to the space while also shielding guests from the midday sun and softening the acoustics.

“Illuminated mosaic tiles, the design of which was taken from encaustic tiles found in the Templar buildings, course across the floor and walls, articulating the large space; the reception desk is of bronze and a chandelier with hand-blown local glass cascades through the central stairwell, suspended above a reflection pool two floors below, to captivate guests on arrival.

“The grand lounge bar is the beating heart of the hotel and has become a favourite hotspot for hotel residents and locals alike. Flowing from the entrance lobby, it is an atmospheric double-height space that is a symphony of reflective and textural surfaces. The bar itself is clad in a richly grained green marble, the pattern of which has been translated into the wall covering. A composition of framed verre églomisé mirrors, together with an antiqued mirror to the back of the bar, play with movement and reflections within the space.

“Plush banquet seating, elegant leather-covered armchairs and local lace chandeliers soften the geometric patterning and beaten metal features, while screens on each side of the bar recall the many-layered views to be found in the streets of Jerusalem. Through soaring arched windows, guests can access cosy balconies overlooking the delightful outdoor courtyard below.”