The bayt was constructed in many stages over several centuries with evidence of Mamluk and Ottoman periods. While the structure is huge, 180 rooms, only a small portion of one outer wall faces the street. 

At one time the eastern bayt was used as "apartments" for relatives as the rooms are not connected but exit to the courtyard. In the western bayt the interconnecting rooms were used by the main family. It contains a majestic grand hall several stories tall. (photo below)

The current conservation plans are to prevent further damage to the building by completing structural repairs. The team removed 150 truckloads of trash along with a 1960s air raid shelter. A VW "beetle"  remains untouched in the western courtyard pending a 20-year-old court case.

The conservators have educated  the neighbors as to why depositing garbage on the roofs does damage to an irreplaceable landmark. When conservation started, about 20 families living in the structures relocated their homes.

The conservators remove wall plaster carefully and frequently come across wall paintings. In one room a painting of a mosque that  resembled the Citadel, appeared. In another we counted six layers of plaster. 

The current state of disrepair helps one see the house through its centuries of existence. You understand the magic of uncovering the exquisite Islamic decorations, a few of which are shown here. Yet the courtyard style architecture hides the house's magnificence to the public behind  the small, unimpressive facade that faces the street. Bayt al-Razzaz is a hidden treasure.