First, I will briefly explain what I want to do with this article. I hope it will be the first of a long series of pieces about different riads in Marrakech. But not about the practical information. For that, you can consult Tripadvisor 🙂
I am interested in the design style and the aesthetic choices the creators have made. Come with me on a tour of riads or other hotels and restaurants that inspire me in Marrakech. And now, let’s analyse the Riad 42.
The Riad 42, the Minimalist Ethnic Chic Riad
So, Nathalie, tell us: "what is a riad?"
In the middle of the crowded streets and the crazy hectic life of the medina, the riads are small hideaways inviting us to quietude and rest. They are built on the same inward-focused principle. All the rooms face an interior garden or courtyard, and no window overlooks the street. The patio comprises four little gardens and a central fountain or small pool.
Riad 42: Architectural and Design Choices
When we think of Marrakech, we tend to think of its exuberant colors and its profusion of patterns. Sobriety and simplicity are not words we associate with Orient in general.
It is, however, the choice that Sarah and Gregoire, a French-Belgian couple, made.
They still kept the traditional architectural elements, as we can see with these high columns or the typically oriental arches above the wooden doors. But, in contrast, they brought western modernity by privileging sobriety and straight lines.
Sarah and Gregoire chose to preserve the high double doors in cedar wood and the decorative iron grills on the windows and the railing. On the other side, they opted for white and empty walls. The pendant lights are discreet. The Moroccan lanterns show simplified lines and highlight the purity of the space.
Combining Ethnic Pieces and Natural Materials
A thoughtful mix of ethnic vintage items, wood accents, and sustainable furniture.
The owners have made the choice of handcrafted Moroccan furniture and accessories but also of old pieces found in the local markets. All while respecting the minimalist code. The result is a soothing atmosphere.
Not forgetting Vintage
The old and the contemporary meet and complement each other. This can be seen in the way the straight-line design of the coffee table opposes the natural age and imperfections of the wooden mortar and the carved Tuareg tent. Just as the glass entrance of the living room contrasts with the traditional tiles and architecture.
Neutral and mineral colors simply enhanced by a few touches of charcoal gray, natural woven materials, handmade weavings, and weathered wood make this Marrakchi riad a minimalist ethnic-chic gem of the Moroccan style.
Old or new mortars are unexpected items that give your home personality. You can display them as vases for dried flowers or hold your kitchen utensils.
If you too are dreaming of the riad 42, what’s stopping you from being inspired by it? Go to our website to find the little marvel that is destined for you.
Moroccan Decor Tour: Riad 42, the Minimalist
First, I will briefly explain what I want to do with this article. I hope it will be the first of a long series of pieces about different riads in Marrakech. But not about the practical information. For that, you can consult Tripadvisor 🙂
I am interested in the design style and the aesthetic choices the creators have made. Come with me on a tour of riads or other hotels and restaurants that inspire me in Marrakech. And now, let’s analyse the Riad 42.
The Riad 42, the Minimalist Ethnic Chic Riad
So, Nathalie, tell us: "what is a riad?"
In the middle of the crowded streets and the crazy hectic life of the medina, the riads are small hideaways inviting us to quietude and rest. They are built on the same inward-focused principle. All the rooms face an interior garden or courtyard, and no window overlooks the street. The patio comprises four little gardens and a central fountain or small pool.
Riad 42: Architectural and Design Choices
When we think of Marrakech, we tend to think of its exuberant colors and its profusion of patterns. Sobriety and simplicity are not words we associate with Orient in general.
It is, however, the choice that Sarah and Gregoire, a French-Belgian couple, made.
They still kept the traditional architectural elements, as we can see with these high columns or the typically oriental arches above the wooden doors. But, in contrast, they brought western modernity by privileging sobriety and straight lines.
Sarah and Gregoire chose to preserve the high double doors in cedar wood and the decorative iron grills on the windows and the railing. On the other side, they opted for white and empty walls. The pendant lights are discreet. The Moroccan lanterns show simplified lines and highlight the purity of the space.
Combining Ethnic Pieces and Natural Materials
A thoughtful mix of ethnic vintage items, wood accents, and sustainable furniture.
The owners have made the choice of handcrafted Moroccan furniture and accessories but also of old pieces found in the local markets. All while respecting the minimalist code. The result is a soothing atmosphere.
Not forgetting Vintage
The old and the contemporary meet and complement each other. This can be seen in the way the straight-line design of the coffee table opposes the natural age and imperfections of the wooden mortar and the carved Tuareg tent. Just as the glass entrance of the living room contrasts with the traditional tiles and architecture.
Neutral and mineral colors simply enhanced by a few touches of charcoal gray, natural woven materials, handmade weavings, and weathered wood make this Marrakchi riad a minimalist ethnic-chic gem of the Moroccan style.
Riad 42 is an invitation to slow life.
Photos: Riad 42, Nicxxxdesign, Britney Gill for The Perfect Hideaway, The Nomadic People
Contact: theriad42@gmail.com or visit their Instagram.
Shop the look
Traditional Berber tables can be used as bedside tables.
The tent poles used by the Sahrawi nomads become stunning Primitive artifacts.
Interested in history? Read our article on these ancient wooden stakes.
Old or new mortars are unexpected items that give your home personality. You can display them as vases for dried flowers or hold your kitchen utensils.
The lovely open weave basket to display negligently.
The Boho rattan lamp shade is classic in its shape but still tropical with its messy strands falling all around.
The Moroccan stool has been redesigned in an African version.
Want to know more about the Moroccan Berber stools?
If you too are dreaming of the riad 42, what’s stopping you from being inspired by it? Go to our website to find the little marvel that is destined for you.