Kempinski, Beirut

Resort / Lebanon / HBA Dubai / Completed in 2017

PROJECT DESCRIPTION

The mesmerizing waterfront resort features 153 modern, warmly-decorated guestrooms, a dining area bathed in natural sunlight, event spaces and a collection of locally-produced art that is both forward-thinking and rooted in the country's heritage. At the hotel's entrance, beige flooring has been cut to include a Rub el Hizb pattern, the eight-pointed stars, derived from the traditional Muslim symbol. From the top of the nearly 33-foot high ceiling, a shimmering water wall flows, capturing the essence of ancient ruins and symbolizing the mountains and the water that flow through them. Guestrooms and suites are decorated with a combination of strong lines and geometric patterns, with architectural lighting highlighting the feature wall above the headboard-a direct reinterpretation of the cedar tree flower. Furniture handles are derived from the seed of the cedar tree, and are a continuous element throughout each room. The bathroom has a combined shower and tub in carved beige stone, another reflection of the location. Light slots are adorned with a glass Mashrabiya pattern recalling the screen design located at the bed.