Al Ismaelia for Real Estate Investment has launched TamaraHaus, a reimagined early 20th-century Neo-Renaissance landmark that now stands as Downtown Cairo’s newest hub for culture, design, and hospitality. Operated by Alchemy Experience, the project brings together art, retail, F&B, and boutique hospitality, continuing Al Ismaelia’s mission to revive the heart of the capital, Invest-Gate reports.
TamaraHaus recently received Egypt’s 2025 Best Practices in Architectural and Urban Heritage Preservation Award, under the patronage of the Minister of Culture and the National Organization for Urban Harmony. The award recognizes its contribution to transforming Downtown Cairo into a stage for cultural and architectural renewal. The inauguration ceremony, which also unveiled the award plaque, was attended by Eng. Mohamed Abu Saada, President of the National Organization for Urban Harmony, along with officials, architects, and members of Cairo’s design community.
Located at 17 Gawad Hosny Street, the historic Abdul-Aziz Radwan Bey Building—originally completed in 1910—was acquired and restored by Al Ismaelia in 2009. The building has been carefully preserved through a context-driven architectural process, maintaining its historic character while introducing contemporary design interventions suited to modern urban life.
Mr. Karim Shafei, Chairman and CEO of Al Ismaelia for Real Estate Investment, said the project continues the company’s goal of bringing life back into Downtown Cairo through places that are “active, welcoming, and connected to the city’s rhythm.” He added that partnering with Alchemy Group “added a unique layer of creativity and sensibility, shaping TamaraHaus into a destination that blends architecture, design, food, and culture under one roof.”
The project included extensive restoration and modernization works—structural repairs, renovation of common areas and staircases, removal of unsightly external additions, and installation of sound- and heat-insulated double-glass windows. The façades were enhanced with bespoke lighting, a new elevator was added, and the main staircase was extended to the rooftop, now home to a restaurant overlooking Cairo’s skyline. Infrastructure upgrades covered all utilities, including water, electricity, gas, and AC systems, alongside full roof insulation.
At its heart, TamaraHaus features Tchai, an intimate teahouse and courtyard merging cuisine, culture, and community. By 2026, the property will expand into a boutique hospitality destination with 28 suites, a fitness studio, and a rooftop restaurant. It will also introduce a department store, a creative hub, and showcase design brands Analogue and Kyme Toys, along with exhibitions by leading Egyptian design houses.
Mr. Karim Mekhtigian, Founder of Alchemy Group, said the project “revives a building that already carried so much history,” emphasizing the team’s effort to “respect its original spirit while opening it up to contemporary experiences.” He added, “TamaraHaus is a place where design, culture, and community meet—where Downtown Cairo’s past and present speak to each other.”
The launch marks a major milestone in Al Ismaelia’s strategy to expand its Downtown portfolio from 25 to 50 restored properties by 2027, supported by EGP 300mn in 2025 developments and a planned USD 50–100mn capital increase. It also reflects Alchemy Experience’s vision of creating multisensory environments that merge architecture, gastronomy, design, and hospitality into one cohesive cultural experience.