In the heart of Jabal Amman, one of Amman’s seven original hills and a national heritage attraction sits the Ghrayib site, overlooking the breathtaking views of the old city and the ancient citadel of Jabal Al-Qal’a. The plot houses the 80 year old Al Qassem House, classified Grade A residential. The desired development is to include a 9000m2 boutique hotel accommodating 40 hotel rooms and a variety of food and beverage outlets.
The main concept behind this design is to narrate the architectural story of the city of Amman over time, celebrating the contrast between its rich history and its modern potential. The plot at Ghrayib is designed to encompass three distinct and unique masses organized around a central plaza. First, the existing Al Qassem house is treated like a jewel and represents the valued heritage on this site. The house celebrates a Golden Era of the city and is preserved and left virtually untouched as the entrance to this project. A second modern structure sits adjacent to the old residence housing 20 rooms and suites with views and balconies onto a plaza beneath and the city beyond. The third structure is introduced at the edge of the plot and borrows from the surrounding local architecture, creating a lower urban boundary and housing 20 other hotel rooms. The plaza between the structures serves as an open public space enhancing interaction between locals and visitors and celebrating the place’s origin, culture and history.