Marrakech, Morocco | Morocco Sotheby's International Realty
Morocco is a land of breathtaking landscapes, vibrant colors and timeless architectural splendor that has inspired creatives throughout history, from fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent and painter Jackson Pollock, to pioneering Moroccan modernist artist Malika Agueznay. Today, the country’s heritage of craftsmanship and spectacular landscapes is attracting a new generation of artists—showcased annually at the 1-54 Art Fair in Marrakech, where leading Moroccan and international artists, designers and galleries converge to celebrate the nation’s creative pulse.
Set against the dreamy backdrop of bustling medinas, sun-soaked deserts and enchanting riads, the event—which takes place at the prestigious La Mamounia hotel and multidisciplinary art space DaDa—highlights Morocco’s singular blend of tradition and innovation, cementing its place as a global artistic oasis and raising the profile of the Moroccan art scene internationally.
Marrakech, Morocco | Morocco Sotheby's International Realty
“1-54 brings people from all over the world to discover our art scene,” says Yasmine Berrada, co-founder of Loft Art Gallery, which has spaces in both Casablanca and Marrakech. During this year’s fair (January 30-February 2), Loft Art Gallery is showing the work of Moroccan artists who are reimagining their country’s craft heritage, from Amina Agueznay, who has traveled across Morocco working with some of the country’s most exceptional artisans, to ceramic artist Bouchra Boudoua, who combines ancestral pottery making techniques with a modern aesthetic.
This connection between past and present also defines the architecture and interiors of some of the country’s most luxurious homes: think intricately carved timber doors, hand-painted zellige tiles, and ornate, hand-carved gebs plasterwork effortlessly integrated with modern, minimalist aesthetics. Courtyards with lush gardens and tranquil fountains preserve the timeless elegance of the country’s riads, while inside, Berber rugs and hammered metal details are juxtaposed with high-end contemporary finishes.
Taroudant, Morocco | Morocco Sotheby's International Realty
“Morocco is unique in its culture, heritage and architecture,” says Abdelhadi Laaouina, sales advisor at Morocco Sotheby’s International Realty. “There is a long history of artists, particularly from America and France, coming to live here—and it has fostered a dynamic creative community that is reflected in many of the properties.”
This diverse history is built into the fabric of Marrakech I Medina, a luxurious 25-room guest house for sale in the historic El Ksour neighborhood in the city’s medina (old town). “It used to be a home for aristocratic families, and it is a stunning showcase of traditional Moroccan crafts,” explains Laaouina. Like most traditional riads, the property is set around a central courtyard and is resplendent in hand-crafted detail. “It’s a representation of our cultural heritage,” says Laaouina.
Route de l'Ourika, Morocco | Morocco Sotheby's International Realty
Just 20 minutes from Marrakech is another impressive home. Nestled within an award-winning park, Marrakech I Route de l'Ourika embraces views over the Atlas Mountains and features a palette of materials derived from ancestral Moroccan techniques. The combination of traditional materials with striking minimalist form is one that epitomizes simplicity and elegance.
Further south is Taroudant I Ait Kroum, a 20-hectare estate near the city of Taroudant, which is planted with orange, clementine and olive trees. “At the heart of the estate is a villa that evokes traditional Berber architecture with an overall style in harmony with nature in its materials and its layout,” says Nicolas Beguin, director of Morocco Sotheby’s International Realty. “It’s a fine blend of modernity and authenticity that evokes the rich colors, history, and culture of Morocco.”
Each of these properties embodies Morocco’s creative identity: a living tapestry, woven from centuries of craftsmanship, artistic innovation and architectural mastery. No wonder artists, designers and collectors are continually inspired by the country’s past and present.
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