The Jaffa Hotel

New York based hotel and real estate company RFR Holding, founded by Aby Rosen, opened their first hotel in Israel- The Jaffa, Tel Aviv, operated by Marriott’s The Luxury Collection Hotels & Resorts. The Jaffa joins The Luxury Collection’s global portfolio of one-of-a-kind hotels that define their destinations, bringing a new benchmark of luxury hospitality to Tel Aviv.

“The Jaffa has been my longest and most personal project to date,” said Aby Rosen, Owner and Co-founder of RFR Holding. “From the outset I saw this as a unique opportunity to develop a truly remarkable hotel with residences in the heart of old Jaffa. Not only is it the longest continuously inhabited city in the world, but it has also become one of the coolest neighborhoods in Tel Aviv. Having previously worked with John Pawson, I know and love his approach to design- especially with historical projects. After purchasing the building, I asked him to bring his minimalist interpretation to the classical monastery building, his creative process has been one of the most rewarding I have been involved with. His sensitivity to the incredible history manifests itself in his thoughtful design, introducing new life and purpose to the building. Having brought together such a superstar team for this project, all of whom dedicated great time and effort over the years, I am sure The Jaffa will quickly become a Tel Aviv icon.”

Overlooking panoramic views of the 4,000-year-old Jaffa port, the Mediterannean Sea, and Tel Aviv city, The Jaffa offers 120 hotel rooms and suites, 32 luxury residences and a roster of impressive amenities. These include an outdoor pool, sundeck and bar, The Chapel bar lounge, an L. Raphael luxury treatment and beauty spa, a fitness centre, a Sheshbesh backgammon lounge, Tamarindi boutique store, and two destination restaurants operated by the acclaimed New York-based Major Food Group.Many of the original features of the building, including the cloister, chapel and original painted ceilings and stained-glass windows, have been preserved and restored making it the perfect fit for The Luxury Collection brand, which is comprised of hotels that truly define their destination.

Design, Architecture and Restoration
Renowned British designer John Pawson brings his signature minimalist style to The Jaffa, juxtaposing the building’s grand history and seamlessly blending old with new. The project spans across a landmark 19th century neo-Roman, former French hospital and monastary and an adjoining new building. Together with local conservationist and architect Ramy Gill, alongside a team of restoration experts, the neo-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, lucious 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.

Epicurean Dining
Major Food Group (MFG), the award -winning restaurant and hospitality group behind New York favorites including Carbone and Sadelle’s, bring two new restaurants in collaboration with local chef, Roi Antebi – Don Camillo, a classic Italian restaurant with a Mediterranean twist, and Golda’s Deli, an authentic New York style deli. Both restaurants are located in the uncovered basement of the 19th century building, which features the structure’s original vaulted ceilings.

Don Camillo, a convergence of Italy, New York, and the Mediterranean, creates a culturally blended menu that is traditionally Italian in its roots whilst merging local influences. The menu features dishes such as Yellowtail Jaffa, Tortellini al Ragu, spicy Pollo Diavolo, and desserts by pastry chef Tal Hoening. The restaurant offers a collection of more than 3,000 wines, individually selected by local Sommelier, Gal Zohar.

Golda’s Deli is a traditional New York style delicatessen, serving classics like bagels and lox, tuna melts, and double decker sandwiches. Guests are served from an open kitchen counter for a truly authentic deli experience. Golda’s Deli also services the Pool Bar.

The hotel’s lobby features a Sheshbesh (backgammon) lounge with bespoke backgammon tables designed by Pawson, in homage to the traditional games that merchants play in the Jaffa market. The lounge offers morning coffee and pastries, and later on a full bar and light snacks.

John Pawson

Collaboration: Ramy Gill