Pierre-Yves Rochon Unveils the Ritz-Carlton Rabat
Set in the heart of a lush palm grove, next to a 440-hectare oak forest and verdant gardens, the Ritz-Carlton is just minutes from Rabat’s UNESCO-listed historic center. The Ritz-Carlton Rabat brings a touch of exclusivity to Morocco’s cultural capital. The design concept by Pierre Yves Rochon for the Ritz-Carlton Rabat is a celebration of the timeless elegance of the 1930s, enriched by a contemporary interpretation and authentic local culture.
The Ritz-Carlton Rabat is a dialogue between pure architecture and Moroccan craftsmanship, with design that transcends time and culture. Each space is designed to offer guests an experience that is both luxurious and deeply rooted in local heritage, while meeting the contemporary demands for comfort and elegance of the most discerning guests.
1. Inspirations and themes
Main theme: 30s elegance revisited
The Ritz-Carlton Rabat is inspired by the opulence of the 1930s, with references to the Art Deco movement and European classicism. Spaces are generous, bright and adorned with elegant details reminiscent of the grand hotels of the era. This historic setting is revisited through a contemporary prism, with clean lines and modern materials; notably the sleek white marble facades.
Local inking: Moroccan craftsmanship in the spotlight
The decorative elements and materials chosen incorporate obvious references to Moroccan craftsmanship: bronze metal moucharabiehs, zelliges in natural tones, and the use of local handcrafted textiles create a dialogue between local heritage and more refined architecture.
2. Concept of common areas: a sensory experience
The Hall of Columns
The lobby, known as the Hall des Colonnes, is designed as an impressive transitional space between exterior and interior. It features spectacular ceiling heights, finely crafted plaster columns and a gleaming marble floor. Bali panels, adorned with pearlescent motifs, add a touch of sophistication. A ceiling mirror, decorated with bronze baguettes, creates a unique play of light reminiscent of the splendors of Art Deco.
Library and reception
The library and reception areas are dominated by dark walnut woodwork, contrasting with white walls. This color duality creates an intimate, sophisticated atmosphere, where guests feel both at home and immersed in luxury. Natural light is filtered by white linen blinds, and patinated brass details accentuate the refinement of these spaces.
Grand Salon
The Grand Salon is designed to be the heart of the hotel, a space for relaxation and socializing. The richly colored ceiling immediately catches the eye and invites contemplation. Frameless glass doors leading to the terraces provide visual continuity with the outdoor gardens. The furniture, dressed in precious fabrics and varnished wood, creates a warm, friendly atmosphere.
The bar
The bar, with its walnut panelling and bronze and glass chandelier inspired by tree leaves, embodies the poetic spirit of the project. The dramatic black ceiling cornice highlights the warm, metallic hues of the gilded niches. The bar thus becomes a place where tradition meets contemporary boldness, offering a unique visual and sensory experience.
3. Room and Suite Design
Rooms
Each of the 117 spacious rooms and suites elegantly blends Art Deco style with Moroccan traditions. Rooms at The Ritz-Carlton Rabat are designed in neutral tones, enhanced by decorative elements such as Moroccan-patterned carpets and animal-skin cushions on sofas. Varnished walnut woodwork and brass accents add warmth and elegance. The wall behind the desk is adorned with brass details that create a play of textures with the dark wood.
Suites
Suites are designed as private residences, with spacious living areas and amenities worthy of the grandest mansions. The headboard is adorned with Venetian mirrors, while majestic chandeliers provide soft, warm light. The bathroom, decorated with white and gold zelliges, evokes Moroccan craftsmanship while offering modern comforts. The suites also feature banquettes at the foot of the beds, for an extra touch of comfort and style.
4. Outdoors
Gardens
The gardens at The Ritz-Carlton Rabat are designed as oases dotted with century-old olive trees and local species. Winding paths lined with black and white zelliges lead to spaces for relaxation and rejuvenation. Visual perspectives are carefully designed to offer unobstructed views across the entire estate, with elements that punctuate the landscape such as fountains and contemporary sculptures.
Swimming pool
The swimming pool is wrapped in white moucharabiehs, creating a lantern-like effect set in the middle of the garden. This openwork structure filters natural light, creating a delicate play of shadows on the water’s surfaces and sheltering guests on the sunniest days. The pond, lined with green zelliges, evokes Andalusian gardens, while the glass roof, invisible from afar, preserves the purity of the architectural lines.
5. The Spa
The Spa at The Ritz-Carlton Rabat is designed to be a sanctuary of well-being. The upper floor is bright and white, in keeping with the hotel’s overall concept, while the lower floor is intimate, with dark walls and black zellige floors. The massage rooms, with their subdued lighting and oriental motifs, offer an authentic experience, inspired by traditional Moroccan hammams.
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