Marrakech, the Moroccan capital, is well-known for palm-streamed neighbourhoods, contemporary design students, decadent art galleries, bespoke and creative independent boutique stores and more. Enriched in culture and design, it’s easy to understand why the rise in hotels continues. Morocco is back on its feet after strict entry requirements for the past few years, and a renaissance in all things beautiful is here. Many non-Moroccans are living their dreams by investing in Marrakech and crafting or creating a new business. We’ve noticed quite a few riads and boutique hotels emerge, and here we share a few of the top ones we have our eyes on in the coming months.
Maison Brummell Majorelle
Created by the team that gave Barcelona, Hotel Brummell, Maison Brummell Majorelle is an oasis that will not disappoint. After three years of strategically planning and reforming the space, the sophisticated and serene pink hotel is here. Born from a collaboration between Austrian owner Christian Schallert, Moroccan architect Amine Abouraoui, and the guidance of New Zealand architect Bergendy Cooke, guests get to experience wellness with Moroccan culture and premium design.
On the parallel street of Rue Yves Saint Laurent, it has a unique location with a view overlooking part of the Majorelle Gardens. The façade is unassuming, with organic shapes that make it appear friendly. We love the way that contemporary design pairs with Moroccan culture. Take, for example, the Egon Eierman chairs, Italians Vesoi, handcraft elements from Maison Nicole and the general use of materials from the country. Maison Brummell Majorelle recently opened its doors. Reserve ASAP to avoid disappointment.
ROSEMARY Marrakech
Belgian designer Laurence Leenaert (known for her brand LRNCE) is due to open her boutique riad any week now. We discovered Laurence back in 2016 when she was mainly designing clothes, accessories and a selection of textiles, but since then, she has become quite a hit for her homeware. Her wedding to Ayoub Boualam beautifully showcased her design skills with bespoke chairs, tableware, clothes and even a watermelon bar. For this reason, many who know her eagerly anticipate the opening of ROSEMARY Marrakech.
So, there is no date. Instead, those accepted to follow the riad on Instagram will see pretty updates of features and behind-the-scenes content. Makes you want to know more, right? We’re pretty sure there is a waiting list of guests to reserve already.
Nobu Marrakech
Nobu opened its first spot in Africa in January with Nobu Marrakech. Enjoy all the consistent features of Nobu’s offerings within a Moroccan realm—for example, the impeccable concierge service, the Pearl’s circular pool, incredible food and creative cocktails. This gem is, most certainly, easy on the eye. Rooms at the hotel reflect the surroundings with more natural elements, including wood and textiles in neutral shades with a slight earthy hue used. You essentially get Moroccan design with a relaxing Japanese aesthetic.
Close to the hustle and bustle of the medina and popular must-have places such as the YSL Garden, guests can be near such spots but with a serene, elegant and fun place to retreat to afterwards. This way, guests can acquire the right balance required. Already booked your accommodation? Don’t worry. At least reserve a table at the exclusive Nobu Restaurant, which serves signature dishes such as the yellowtail sashimi with jalapeño, rock shrimp tempura, and black miso cod.