Design In Focus Past Meets Future in W Amman’s Vibrant Design
At W Amman, everything has a story – but it’s not always the story you would expect to hear. From the Bedouin-inspired textiles to the artwork by local painters and the murals on the walls, the history of Jordan’s capital is represented with a modern W twist, combining old world charm with new world design. Go inside the new W Amman and discover how Jordan’s past and future come alive.
At the Entrance
Tree of Life
Who designed it: Singapore based ID Consultants, Silverfox
What it’s made of: The tree is made of twisted multi-colored Bedouin fabrics.
Where was it made: Amman, Jordan
Why it represents Amman: Greeting you as you enter, the Tree of Life is a modern interpretation of local culture, made from vibrant Bedouin fabrics in the shape of a blessed Sahabi tree. The tree is known to survive fierce desert conditions since the year 1400 and is mainly found in the Jordanian city of Madaba, but here represents the strength of a culture with a bold W twist.
Living Room
Vibrant Decor
Who designed it: The pillows were designed by the Jordan River Foundation which is a non-profit & non-governmental organization established in 1995.
What it’s made of: Jordanian culture can be found through fabrics, cushions and huge bottle vases inspired by Bedouin weaving, as well as plant and flower pots that look like the rooftops of the city.
Where was it made: Amman, Jordan
Why it represents Amman: The Living Room is inspired by the unique cityscape of Amman where buildings resemble matchboxes spread out on different levels of mountains. From a birds’ eye view, these buildings create a stunning pattern as the light changes throughout the day, mimicked by the geometric architecture of the space.
The Paintings
Who designed it: Jordanian artist Bader Mahasneh
What it’s made of: Oil on canvas
Where was it was made: Amman, Jordan
Why it represents Amman: Reflecting the inner angst between man and the place he occupies within the universe, Jordanian artist Bader Mahasneh uses rough surfaces to illuminate his figures. He unceasingly experiments with his techniques and materials and is drawn to the beauty of natural materials, believing that their impurities add to their uniqueness. His paintings bring the pride of the people to the W walls with a unique, abstract technique.
In the Suites
The wallpaper
Who designed it: Solidarity of Unbridled Labour
Where it was made: United States
Why it represents Amman: The wallpaper designs are witty, reflecting elements of the Jordanian culture in a creative modern way.
Mix Master: Inspired by Amman’s architecture, this design abstracts the city’s terraced buildings with warmly lit windows to showcase the textural and layered nature of Amman. Hidden in the pattern you will find Arabic letters which say: Dream, Dare, Do, Whatever.
Coffee Culture: With a mix of traditionalism, modernism, and a touch of kitsch, this design shows coffee spouts flowing to create movement and color, celebrating Bedouin coffee culture.
Terraces: Inspired by Amman’s architecture, this wall abstracts the city’s terraced buildings with warmly lit windows and lush gardens. With another glance, the gardens become clouds and the windows become stars.
Pillows & Throws
Who designed it: Solidarity of Unbridled Labour
Where they were made: United States
How they represent Amman: Each design shows a scene that brings out the culture of the city:
City Life: An illustrative interpretation of the Amman skyline comes with a scene of characters and humorous scenarios, all drawn in vibrant sunset hues.
Ships of the Desert: There is so much to explore in the vast landscapes surrounding Amman, and the desert inspires a unique form of creativity. Influenced by the beautifully adorned camels of desert culture, these pillows inspire adventure.
