MAIDEN VOYAGE ON WATER
The Nile Boat
GM Architects has revealed its design inspiration
an adjustable screen that filters the intense
for The Nile Boat, a restaurant and events
sunlight of the summer months.
GM ARCHITECTS
complex that will take to the water in late
Floor-to-ceiling windows on the lower level
2021. Envisioned by the firm’s founder, Galal
enable guests to take in the views of the river,
Mahmoud, the venue will be moored alongside
while upstairs, large balconies provide space
Cairo’s upmarket Maadi suburb.
for al fresco events. For the interiors, the brief
Taking cues from the traditional boats of
was to create a relaxed and sophisticated lounge
Ancient Egypt – notably the dahabeeyahs, which
atmosphere, with GM Architects once again
were built from slender papyrus stems – the
looking to Egyptian traditions for inspiration.
project honours Mahmoud’s commitment to
As such, the scheme will blend classic and
contextual immersion, by reinterpreting the
contemporary, characterised by colourful and
river’s history in a contemporary style.
furniture and artwork showcasing the region’s
“I have a great affinity for this location
ON DECK Route: Nile Maiden Voyage: Late 2021 Architecture: GM Architects www.gm-architects.com
rich cultural heritage.
because both of my parents are Egyptian,”
“Places like this are common in Cairo, but
Mahmoud explains. “The design inspiration
we have added a twist to make it even more
came to me while listening to my mother talking
luxurious and magical,” adds Mahmoud, who
about her memories of Cairo in the 1950s and in
confirms that there will be a rooftop beach club
particular the boats that sailed the Nile during
and swimming pool, as well as a lounge bar
that period. I aimed to channel that nostalgia.”
and seafood restaurant on the middle deck.
The complex is clad in vertical panels of wood
Companies and private groups will also be to
and metal that evoke the papyrus stems, with
hire a large banquet hall for exclusive events.
021
