This is where to stay in Israels dynamic metropolis.
As a design lover, I had come to Tel Aviv to see the project for myself.
There were Bertoia tables and chairs amid dark-green flowering grasses, climbing vines, and mature olive trees.
A foyer at R48 hotel, in Tel Aviv, designed by the Paris firm Liaigre.Credit:Sivan Askayo
Throughout the property are works by Israeli artists.
Amid all this elegance are two showstoppers.
One is R48s rooftop, which has a raised pool and more gardens by Oudolf.
From left: Guest-relations director Arielle Ben-Hashal; the in-room welcome spread.Sivan Askayo
And I still think about the eggsen cocotte essentially ashakshukaadorned with a crown of bread crumbs.
Great design and food are cornerstones of a fine hotel, of course.
But what tied the R48 experience together so beautifully during my three-night stay was the lovely staff.
From left: A miniature vegetable “taco” at R48’s restaurant, Chef’s Table; R48’s courtyard landscaping is by Dutch designer Piet Oudolf.Sivan Askayo
A luxe Mandarin Oriental is slated to follow a few blocks away later this year.
R48’s rooftop terrace has views over downtown Tel Aviv.Sivan Askayo
Chef Ohad Solomon before dinner service at Chef’s Table.Sivan Askayo
Guest rooms include custom tulipwood headboards by Liaigre.Sivan Askayo