Al Ismaelia launches TamaraHaus, restored neo-renaissance landmark as a new cultural, hospitality hub in downtown Cairo

EGYPT – Real estate developer Al Ismaelia has launched TamaraHaus, a restored early 20th-century Neo-Renaissance landmark in Downtown Cairo reimagined as a center for culture, design, and hospitality.

The project, operated by Alchemy Experience, recently won the prestigious 2025 Best Practices in Architectural and Urban Heritage Preservation Award, one of Egypt’s highest honors for cultural conservation.

The inauguration ceremony on Monday unveiled the award plaque with attendance from officials of Egypt’s National Organisation for Urban Harmony, leading architects, and Cairo’s cultural and design community members.

Located at 17 Gawad Hosny Street, the historic Abdul-Aziz Radwan Bey Building was completed in 1910 and acquired by Al Ismaelia in 2009.

The restoration preserved its original architectural elements while adding contemporary design touches. Extensive work included structural repairs, common area renovations, staircase restoration, bespoke façade lighting, new elevator installation, and full infrastructure upgrades.

Chairman and CEO Karim Shafei explained, “TamaraHaus embodies Al Ismaelia’s vision to revitalize Downtown Cairo with vibrant, welcoming spaces connected to the city’s rhythm. Alchemy Group infused creativity, blending architecture, design, food, and culture under one roof.”

At its heart lies Tchai, a boutique teahouse and courtyard. By 2026, the property will expand to include 28 boutique hospitality suites, a fitness studio, and a rooftop restaurant.

Alchemy Group’s founder Karim Mekhtigian added, “We respected TamaraHaus’s historic spirit while adding contemporary experiences that breathe new life into this cultural landmark.”

This launch is a key milestone in Al Ismaelia’s broader plan to double its Downtown heritage portfolio from 25 to 50 properties by 2027. The company has allocated EGP 300 million (US$15.9 million) for 2025 developments and plans a capital raise of $50-100 million for ongoing projects.

Cairo’s hospitality sector continues to attract strong investments. Recent developments include the transformation of the historic Mogamma Al Tahrir into a 500-room Autograph Collection Hotel by Marriott International.

A US$2 billion partnership to develop hospitality and leisure projects along the Nile and East Cairo is underway, aiming to double hotel capacity by 2030.

Luxury branded residences by Marriott, Four Seasons, and Nobu are also boosting Cairo’s upscale market.

Founded in 2008, Al Ismaelia is Egypt’s first private firm dedicated to adapting and preserving Downtown Cairo’s historic buildings, now owning 25 heritage properties and aiming for 50 by 2027.

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