A new hotel has sprung up in Israel’s Negev Desert – and it’s a modern take on the ancient architecture of the area’s nomadic civilisations.

Plesner Architects designed the building, which was reportedly 10 years in the making. The practice wanted to create something reminiscent of the structures inhabited by the Nabataeans – a nomadic community that lived in the desert 2,000 years before. Their handiwork can still be seen in Petra, where architecture is carved into the sandstone cliffs.

Six Senses Sharahut is integrated into the surrounding landscape and built using materials sourced from the local area to help it blend with the desert. Walls are made from rough-hewn limestone and flint, while thatched roofs shade terraces.

Inside, rooms are laid out in muted shades, with warmth supplied by patterned rugs, tasselled wall hangings and wooden furniture. Suites all have private patios, while villas come with swimming pools and steam rooms. Guests can keep themselves busy in the hotel’s desert activity centre, which offers twilight camel rides, or hike along the desert’s ancient incense route.

Six Senses Shaharut, Shaharut, Israel

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