Boutique hotels are few and far between in the Gulf, which is why we’re so excited about this upcoming September opening from Campbell Gray Hotels in Bahrain. With just 47 suites and a unique location in the heart of old Manama next to the Bab el-Bahrain Souk, The Merchant House, is truly a boutique property.
Founder Gordon Campbell Gray has spent the last year curating a collection of Bahraini art for the hotel, with works from established local artists and more contemporary pieces from young artists from around the GCC. The lobby promises vibrant colours contrasting with white walls and floors, and pops of graffiti and bare concrete firmly establish this as a youthful, urban hotel.
A rooftop bar and restaurant has been designed in the style of a private garden, a haven of green in the heart of the city. There’s casual indoor-outdoor dining and a rooftop pool to cool off in the warmer months. For diners who prefer to eat en privé, each of the 47 suites comes with an open plan kitchen and dining area, plus separate sitting rooms.