The Maison's architecture is a playful interpretation of Arabic architectural elements distilled through foreign eyes. It is inspired by its rich architectural history but purposely does not replicate it. The building’s sculptural form pays homage to the ancient rampart walls of the Marrakech Medina.
Like a sandcastle or sculpture, the openings are the buildings transition into a private interior. Deep recesses serve like the ancient Mashrabiya Screens giving privacy to the bedrooms, where the deeper recesses have been implemented. Others create private terraces, an extension of the bedrooms, connecting to the surrounding gardens.
Wanting to showcase the rich artisanal heritage of Morocco we embraced local artisans, materials and their application in a less traditional context.
The treatment to the exterior walls of these recesses are finished in Tadlelakt, (polished plaster), defining the transition as opposed to the rough Pisé exterior finish. Terrazzo, in grey and pink is used extensively both inside and out. Tadlelakt creates the interior wall and ceiling surface making for a seamless finish that invites guests to touch. In addition terrazzo is implemented to interior creating a datum that fluctuates in height, defining spaces and extending to creating basins and baths within the bedrooms. Bejmat handmade tiles are used to the lower public spaces and extend to the terrace enhancing a fluid transition.
The building is laid out over three floors, the lower floor sits a story below street level which creates the notion of a Riad (traditional family home) with its internal courtyard. This is the hub of the public space and includes, a lounge, dining area, kitchen, outdoor spaces and pool. A traditional Hammam is also located here, which has its own plunge pool, heated massage slab and finished in local marble and water resistant Tadlelakt.
The building is timeless addition to its neighbourhood.
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