Marrakech is a second home for Nataal. This storied city brings us back time and time again, as much for cultural moments such as 1-54 art fair and The Diaspora Salon, as for its famed hospitality. So here, we speak to the masterminds behind some our favourite places to stay – each one with its own irresistible joie de vivre – to discuss what they bring to Marrakech’s ever-burgeoning creative scene.

ROSEMARY: for design addicts

Laurence Leenaert extended her quiet prowess as a multi-medium artist and founder of design brand LRNCE into Rosemary, one of the latest additions to Marrakech’s riad landscape. Her deft eye for modernist lines, soulful colours and smile-inducing motifs steeps this bolthole in a joyful glow. Every item from coffee cups to table tops, is reflective of her distinctive practice. We found it hard to leave our room where a groove-laden Spotify playlist, deep bath and playful textiles reigned. But then again, those rooftop breakfasts of warm pancakes won’t eat themselves…

Vision

“We’d already designing bespoke pieces for numerous hotels so the idea of creating our own project felt like a natural next step. Morocco is renowned for its warmth and generosity, and since we’ve always been drawn to this industry, we wanted to make an impact by crafting a place where design and hospitality come together as defining elements.”

Craftsmanship

“Moroccan artisans are incredibly talented. They have a deep generosity when it comes to sharing their knowledge and are always open to experimenting with new techniques. Having worked in craftsmanship for nearly a decade, we’ve developed a strong understanding of the materials and techniques. For Rosemary, we collaborated with artisans on a wide range of furniture and decor pieces. We also focused on combining materials in unique ways, such as sandstone and mosaic marble tables or plaster appliqués paired with Murano glass.”

Favourite features

“We fell in love with the stained glass we incorporated into the wrought iron doors. We discovered an atelier of women in Meknes, the only artisans in Morocco still working with stained glass. Their craftsmanship transformed the riad, adding depth and a striking visual dimension to the space.”

The experience

“Rosemary offers an immersion into authenticity, allowing guests to step out of their usual comfort zones and experience something unexpected. Staying here is about living in a traditional Moroccan home but with a contemporary design twist that makes it truly special.”

Marrakech scene

“Rosemary is a place for creative exchange. We offer experiences that connect guests with Moroccan craftsmanship, such as ceramic painting workshops with Laurence, where they can explore traditional techniques and create their own pieces.”

Rue de la Bahia, Marrakech.
Visit ROSEMARY

PURE HOUSE MARRAKECH: for wellness seekers

Nordine Fakir is the local legend behind such essential destinations as Le Salama, La Palace, Casa Lalla Takerkoust and Pure Farmhouse. With Pure House Marrakech, the serial entrepreneur invites guests into an oasis of contemporary calm. No stay is complete without a dip in the pool with views of the Atlas mountains, an evening hammam and time spent conversing with the in-house team, natural storytellers one and all.

Vision

“Pure House Marrakech is a slow living concept that focuses on creating a tranquil and enriching experience. We encourage guests to disconnect from their routines at home but also to escape from the hustle and bustle of the Medina.”

Journey

“Transforming the original riad into a luxurious space required a deep respect for its historical essence while enhancing its serenity and sensorial experience. The process began with meticulous architectural restoration to preserve traditional elements like zellige tiles, carved cedarwood and tadelakt walls, while upgrading infrastructure to ensure modern comfort. Beyond aesthetics, the focus was on creating a harmonious environment that fosters relaxation and well-being.”

Favourite features

“We consider our courtyard as a feature we’re proud of as it is the heart of the riad and embodies the traditional Moroccan concept of harmony. We love the connection between the natural light over the fiddle leaf fig trees and the water of the display pool just underneath them.”

The experience

“Guests are invited to embrace the unhurried rhythm of Marrakech, whether through a rejuvenating hammam ritual, sunrise yoga or a Moroccan tea ceremony. Every detail is designed to inspire a deeper connection – to oneself, to the present moment and to the rich heritage of Moroccan hospitality. It’s not just a place to stay but a place to pause, breathe and truly experience the art of living well.”

Marrakech scene

“We curate immersive experiences that connect guests with Marrakech’s artistic soul and by sourcing locally, supporting fair-trade artisans, and promoting slow travel experiences, we help sustain Marrakech’s creative ecosystem while offering guests a deeper, more meaningful connection to the city. Ultimately, our riad is a space where tradition and modern creativity coexist – a sanctuary that invites both visitors and locals to experience Marrakech through the lens of art, culture and mindful living.”

16 Derb Abou El Fdail, Marrakech
Visit PURE HOUSE MARRAKECH

DAR SABRA: for art connoisseurs

Tucked away in the Marrakech Palmeraie, Dar Sabra delights for its retro-futuristic architecture, which acts as a dramatic gallery for its extensive art collection from a global roster of renowned talents. The hotel and spa has become a hub for collectors and connoisseurs who flock here to experience its suites, villas and extensive grounds brimming with refined creativity at every turn. The proprietor Adrien Chapoutot tells us more.

Vision and architecture

“Dar Sabra began as my father’s retirement house, which he then transformed into an art boutique hotel while I started my hospitality studies. The building was inspired by Mexican architect Luis Barragan but my father added his personal touches to the interior design.”

Favourite features

“We are proud that the hotel is a unique property in Marrakech. It’s somewhere that possesses its own charm. Guests can feel like it’s a home away from home yet with all the services of a luxury hotel.”

Art collection

“Mr Chapoutot is passionate about contemporary art and worked with art critic Gérard Xuriguera to collaborate with artists directly on site. The result is an extensive collection of works, both intimate and monumental, that are on display throughout the hotel.”

Circuit de la Palmeraie, Douar Abiad, Marrakech
Visit DAR SABRA

THE LEVANTINE: for luxury lovers

Our stay at this palatial hotel in Tameslouht made us feel like kings and queens. The buildings are an exercise in regal proportions, with sky-high ceilings from which tumbling curtains meet mosaic floor tiles and rich rugs – all the more comfortable for exploring the palm-lined grounds, large pool and generous suites filled with four-poster beds and wet rooms. If you have a novel to write, come here to sit and ponder your chapters in its serene surroundings while, as managing director Mahmoud Freihat assures us, your every needs will be taken care of.

Vision

“The Levantine was envisioned as a tribute to the timeless splendour of landmark hotels like Claridge’s in London. I was inspired by the grand Victorian and Georgian-era hotels that once served as elegant retreats for the lords and ladies of a bygone era. At the same time, I wanted to marry that classic refinement with the warmth and generosity of Arab hospitality, offering our guests unparalleled service and an experience that feels both luxurious and deeply personal.”

Architecture

“The manor house was originally built in a pure Moroccan Arabesque style. However, I sought to introduce elements of Art Deco and colonial design to complement its Moroccan essence, creating a timeless and harmonious aesthetic that is rich in heritage and effortlessly sophisticated.”

Favourite features

“Nothing was imported – every element, from the sheets to the furniture and décor, was crafted locally, highlighting the incredible skill of Moroccan artisans. Our passion for antiques is also evident throughout the hotel, with treasures including a 1930s Gaveau piano and a 19th-century console from Pacha Glaoui’s palace. Additionally, our gardens were sustainably designed with native Moroccan and African plants and grasses, ensuring a lush environment without relying on tropical, water-intensive species.”

The experience

“The Levantine is defined by its bespoke approach to hospitality. We foster genuine connections with our guests and take pride in anticipating their needs, ensuring an experience that is truly exceptional. We also embody timeless elegance. Through artisanal techniques, locally sourced craftsmanship and a landscape that honours its surroundings, we provide an authentic sense of place where history, tradition and modern luxury coexist. Our hotel is a sanctuary that pays homage to the past while delivering the highest standards of comfort and refinement.”

Km 17, Amizmiz Riad, Marrakech
Visit THE LEVANTINE