Architect Michal Matalon turned a neglected Ottoman house into a high-class oasis in the heart of the beautiful old city of Acre, Israel, the  Melisende Oasis. A perfect blend between old and new, along with service and luxury, brings this unique New Mediterranean-style boutique hotel to life. The  Melisende Hotel, named after the impressive crusader queen Melisende who reigned in the Kingdom of Jerusalem during the time when Acre was its capital, is located in the heart of the old city of Acre, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, surrounded by all of Akko’s main attractions.
Since the first hotel 5 years ago, they have built 6 more units, with the last one in the old city of Acre. All six units are in approximately 500-year-old buildings that have undergone massive renovation, preservation, and restoration. The design of the rooms is a junction between old and new. The high and impressive arches create a connection to the local history and the modern design and fittings in the rooms provide the indulgence of a home away from home. Matalon explains that in the conservation process, the support pillars are not touched, and do not carry out excavations or cut openings without the accompaniment of the Antiquities Authority.
The floor in the rooms is covered with calm gray porcelain granite tile with touches of terrazzo. The wooden furniture has been specially designed and is made of light oak in a natural color, including beds with wooden headboards, wardrobes, and chairs with wicker seats. The surfaces of the sinks and the coffee corner are made of Corian. The thin lamps were created by a local Israeli artist according to a sketch by Matalon. The courtyard has many plants in Corten planters and is lit by ceiling lamps that illuminate the arches and doors and garland string lights that hang in the sitting area.