GAJ draws influences from Arabic culture for Al Bait Sharjah design

Al Bait Sharjah joined the portfolio of General Hotel Management (GHM) in the United Arab Emirates. The boutique hotel, located about 15 miles north of Dubai, is part of the UAE’s preservation project called “Heart of Sharjah”, a heritage project planned over a 15-year period and targeted for completion by 2025 that aims to revitalize the district.

The property was developed in partnership with Shurooq (the Sharjah Investment and Development Authority). The architecture and design of Al Bait Sharjah was undertaken by UK architectural firm GAJ.

The architecture and interior design of the 53-guestroom hotel reflect the influence of Arabic culture, and mirror the aesthetic of the surrounding buildings in the district.

Al Bait’s new structures follow traditional Sharjah architecture, and were constructed from the restored foundations of old houses that once belonged to the families living in the area.

Conservation features include a direct connectivity and access to Souq Al Arsah, a traditional bazaar and marketplace; conservation of the last remaining round wind tower (a traditional method of ventilation); and incorporation of handcrafted thatched roofs and motifs into the ceilings of the hotels’ buildings.

For dining, the property has The Restaurant and The Café.

Other amenities include a spa that is the first in the GHM portfolio to have a hammam as part of its treatment facilities.

Florian Leven is the GM of Al Bait Sharjah.

Photo credit: General Hotel Management