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Pâtisserie Mahrousé

Located on the ground floor of the Roccabella tower, on Rue de la Montagne, Pâtisserie Mahrousé—envisioned by IDCA Design, a studio founded by brothers Jean and Majd Jabali—embodies the spirit of old Damascus, immersing you in the city’s rich cultural heritage from the moment you step through the door. The subtle fragrance of orange blossom blends with the scent of freshly baked baklava, setting the tone for an authentic sensory journey.

The designers intentionally designed an entryway with a height of 16 feet, creating a sense of narrowness that evokes the hara (narrow alley) of ancient Damascene neighborhoods. The vision for this space is further enhanced by the presence of mashrabiya —intricate wooden lattice windows that are purely decorative in this context, though they traditionally serve to filter natural light. The entrance itself is adorned with a wooden mosaic door , a nod to the craftsmanship you’d find in Damascus’ historic quarters. Once inside, your gaze is immediately drawn to the central iwan, an architectural element that often serves as a gathering place for guest. The grand arch and the vibrant stained-glass windows perched at the higher level fill the space with colors reminiscent of traditional Syrian homes.
Overhead, your eyes are captivated by the intricate ceiling design, crowned with a majestic chandelier that casts a warm glow across the shop.

A wooden balcony divides the space vertically, giving the impression of standing in the courtyard of a grand Damascene house. Above the balcony, arched stained-glass windows were added to invoke the image of rooms that open onto an inner courtyard, where life in Damascus traditionally revolves. The Jabali brothers incorporated a diwan

—a formal guest area in traditional Syrian homes—right near the entrance. This diwan is made from solid wood and inlaid with pearls. Red velvet seating invites guests to relax and enjoy their pastries on the round tables inspired by traditional Syrian copper trays .
The main counter, adorned with a Middle Eastern geometrical pattern in gold finish, stands in elegant contrast to the black wood backdrop . This design highlights the desserts on display, particularly the baklava, which holds a cherished place in Syrian hospitality and traditions. The walls are designed with traditional striped stonework, known as ablaq, often found in ancient Syrian architecture, adding a timeless and authentic feel. These walls are further adorned with mirrors inlaid with pearls, adding a luxurious touch that enhances the shop’s homage to the cultural and architectural richness of Damascus. Standing in the center of the store, you’ll feel as though you’re in a Damascene courtyard, surrounded by all the traditional architectural elements that define a Syrian home.
Pâtisserie Mahrousé is more than a pastry shop—it is an immersive journey through the history, artistry, and spirit of Damascus.

3D Rendering 

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