The central courtyard, while a luxury seldom seen in the U.S., is not what it could be. Although the facades are much better, and the complexity fo the roof-line ornamentation is eye-catching, I would love to see even a subtle pattern worked into the paving. Perhaps its expanse of plain beige isn’t as noticeable in person, though. But again, when compared to the public interiors, this space loses in the “oomph” department. Personally, I like the courtyard (given an added paving pattern). It’s just that the disparate levels of color and pattern are jarring.

The exterior landscaping needs help. Apart from the lovely fountain and stylistically appropriate, though visually heavy, gazebos, it has a serious case of the blahs. The very word “paradise” is of Persian origin and refers to gardens, which are always included in fine Islamic architecture as a reflection of what will be found in the afterlife by those virtuous enough to reach it. A fine home without a fine garden isn’t a fine home.

Now, see what too much education can do to you? You learn all this stuff, see all these pictures of the absolute best of every genre, and then are confronted by imitations that, while wonderful compared to most of what passes for architecture these days, simply do not pass muster when compared to the best history has to offer. I really, really wanted this whole place to measure up to its public rooms. It’s a damn shame it doesn’t… for stoopy over-educated me…..