This Artfully Layered Home in Cairo – Overlooking the Nile –Is a Modern Day Art Deco Fantasy

Capturing the nostalgia of a bygone era – specifically, Egypt in the 1960s – and successfully avoiding the lure of cliches when creating a home in Cairo is not a design challenge everyone can meet. Which is why, the Cairo-based AD100 architect Yasmina Makram was the perfect choice when it came to imbuing a sense of place and simultaneously, modern charm, in this in pied-à-terre overlooking the Nile.

Yasmina Makram pictured in the salon of her latest residential project by the river Nile.

Sara Gaafar

The second salon featuring a round rug by Illulian; the seating and coffee table are by Minotti and the artwork on the left is an Ahmed Osman.

Sara Gaafar

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Quietly nestled on the banks of the ancient river, within a historic building, this artfully layered home in Cairo boasts an instinctive melding of the past and the present. At the entrance, for example, an exquisite marble floor in a lotus flower design, reminiscent of Egypt’s pharaonic heritage, adorns the foyer crafted in marble, wood and mirrors.

A work by Mostafa Abdel Moity is the focal point of the entrance foyer that also features a marble floor whose pattern was inspired by historic Egyptian iconography.

Sara Gaafar

The clients, a foreign couple with a passion for art, sought a home that was an ode to Egypt (with a design that wasn’t literal), inviting, and luxurious, and would provide the perfect setting for their art collection that features work by leading local artist, such as Farouk Hosny and Mostafa Abdel Moity.

A glimpse of the lotus flower marble flooring in the foyer from inside the powder room which features an eye-catching wallpaper by Casamance, custom Calacatta marble basin and Farol Double wall scones by Lightform.

Sara Gaafar

The original layout of this Cairo apartment was mostly left untouched. “Given the historical significance of the building we had to respect the existing structural system and integrate them into our design creatively,” explains Makram, “this included maintaining the integrity of the original columns and adhering to the architectural constraints imposed by the building's heritage to achieve a cohesive and functional space.”

Ahmed Osman's artwork hangs in the dining area which also features a Kahhal 1871 rug.

Sara Gaafar

Traditional materiality, including the use of natural wood – that was used on the floor and walls with surprisingly modern results – further enriched the home’s cultural narrative while enhancing its timeless appeal. To achieve a modern-vintage vibe, Makram opted for more brushed metals and aged brass finishes, masterfully illuminated by indirect lighting fixtures, discreetly tucked into the cornices. The result? A space that looks bathed in warm golden light, that not only creates a sense of intimacy, it also evokes the glamour of a time gone by.

The main salon with its oak flooring against walnut panelling, spotlights artwork by Farouk Hosny hanging above the Seymour sofa by Minotti.

Sara Gaafar

By drawing inspiration from the art deco aesthetic – bold geometric patterns, rich colours, and lavish ornamentation – along with a subtle infusion of traditional Egyptian motifs and modernist influences, Makram has crafted a rich palette that is not only curated for a contemporary lifestyle, it also leans into the house's patrimony and unique location, merging the indoors with breathtaking views over the Nile.

Rug by Illulian.

Sara Gaafar

B&B Italia's Erica chair and Spool Tavolini side table placed on the terrace.

Sara Gaafar

The art deco influences are, of course, a nod to Egypt's glamorous past: And it hits you, in the nicest way possible, as soon as you enter the apartment. “The panelled mirror wall at the entrance, along with the walnut panelling, is designed to maximise lighting and introduce a sense of drama and moodiness to the space,” explains Makram.

Wissa Wassef's tapestry hangs prominently in the entrance of the residence.

Sara Gaafar

At at other residence, and in anyone else's hands, foyers are transitional spaces; but in this artfully layered home in Cairo, it is a space that sets the tone of what to expect. It is easy to understand why it is one of Makram's two most favourites spaces in this project. “The entrance sets the tone with its dramatic lighting and textures,” she explains. It smoothly leads into the living room, where natural light fills the space during the day, and city lights add ambiance at night. "This balance between the two areas perfectly captures the home's blend of sophistication and comfort, making it tough for me to choose just one favourite spot."

View of the Nile from the master bedroom.

Sara Gaafar

Drawing attention to the panoramic views of the Nile, a central and captivating feature in both the salons and the main bedroom, vibrant Pierre Frey curtains were chosen to frame the view; their bold colours and patterns drawing attention to the scenes unfolding outdoors. Furniture from a raft of makers – from Minotti and Molteni & C to Baxter to B &B Italia – is complemented with a hand-picked selection of accessories from leading international and local brands, reflecting an eclectic mix of influences. "I wanted to create a space that not only reflects the beauty of Egypt but also offers the home owners a sanctuary from the hustle and bustle of city life. This is a home where every detail tells a story," says Makram.