moroccan boutique hotel merges traditional architecture with contemporary touches

starting from a solid mass, the architects played with geometries and openings, carving selected incisions and voids.

christina petridou April 12, 2023 4 min

‘Maison Brummell Majorelle’ boutique hotel in morocco

Overlooking the famous Majorelle Gardens in Marrakesh, Morocco, Maison Brummell Majorelle is a boutique 8-room hotel that celebrates the rich local architectural history. Designed by New Zealand architect Bergendy Cooke in collaboration with Moroccan architect Amine Abouraoui for Austrian hotelier Christian Schallert, the project is a dream destination for design enthusiasts and wanderlust travelers from all over the world. The brief was for a getaway retreat, where visitors can leave the hectic city pace behind, unwind, and come closer to nature.

Designing from scratch, the team opted to marry Moroccan elements with a modern twist, resulting in a sculptural gem that blends seamlessly into its setting. Starting with a solid mass, the architects played with geometries and openings, carving selected incisions and voids. The resulting sculptural structure provides a variety of spatial experiences through scale, light, and shadow, while a generous amount of foliage throughout the project comes in delicate juxtaposition with the rigid building form. The imposing vegetation is accompanied by running water in different volumes, enhancing a notion of an oasis. Handmade tiles and local terrazzo complete the light-pink hue of the exterior, infusing the spaces with a sense of regional craftsmanship and refinement.

an architectural gem where tradition meets luxury

Maison Brummell Majorelle (see more here) can host up to 16 guests, providing a tranquil space where comfort and tradition flawlessly interact. The ground level of the boutique hotel features a custom-built classic Moroccan kitchen with a generous table where guests can spend quality time together. Further down, the architects (see more here and here) have positioned a cozy room with a fireplace and multiple modular sofas that can adjust to the number and needs of the visitors.

The interior is finished with design classics such as the Egon Eierman chairs and Ingo Maurer’s paper
lamp, artisanal works, high-end design, and bespoke furniture. All rooms are equipped with handcrafted wood and brass furniture from local producer Maison Nicole, suspension lamps by the Italians Vesoi, all faucets and taps by Italian brand Neve and Gio Ponti´s Lama door handles. Accents of brass mark the transitions between various areas, from street to hotel and from public to private spaces. Further luxury amenities such as a massage room, steam bath, and heated plunge pool enrich the quality of the hotel, completing the dream destination.

moroccan boutique hotel merges traditional architecture with contemporary touches