September 2023: La Mamounia, a picture of beauty and wonder to celebrate its centenary
In 2020, a major renovation began to transform the spaces of the hotel's ground floor. Conceived by the renowned architect and designer duo Sanjit Manku and Patrick Jouin, the renovation was carried out in two phases, the first of which unveiling spaces that had been redesigned or reimagined into dazzling invitations to travel.
The second phase, completed in September 2023, adds subtle yet breathtaking touches to the overall effect. More elegant and magnificent than ever, La Mamounia is decked out in all its finery to celebrate its hundredth birthday.
The areas dedicated to French painter, Jacques Majorelle
The areas dedicated to French painter, Jacques Majorelle and named after him, have also been completely transformed. The Majorelle walkway is lit up by a series of illuminated display cabinets, set off by an enchanting play of mirrors and glass that conjures up an almost surreal feel.
Created to offer a unique view of the palm grove, the Majorelle lounge provides a harmonious link between indoors and out, reflecting the natural aesthetic of the vegetation through its wicker furnishings clad in silky green fabrics.
Le Bar Majorelle has been made even more attractive and easily accessible by the ingenious introduction of new openings. Sculptural in form, the bar itself now features faceted glass veneers topped by a sumptuous white onyx counter, adorned with brushed brass details.
Furthermore, the Majorelle terrace has been arranged around a hundred-year-old carob tree, planted in honour of La Mamounia's anniversary. In the great Moroccan tradition, zellige tilework and glazed ceramics combine to make this a delightfully soothing space.
- The reception area now provides an even more immersive introduction into the world of La Mamounia. The eye is instantly caught by the Centenary Candelabra, an extraordinary work of light mounted in the centre of the Great Hall, which forms the beating heart of the establishment. Seamlessly integrated into the pyramidal ceiling, it embodies the coming together of two stories; one celebrating Morocco's traditional arts and Berber femininity, and the other, showcasing contemporary craftsmanship.
- The lobby has been redesigned to offer an even more intimate and welcoming first encounter with the hotel. It is decked out in soft, pale tones that beautifully resonate with a palette of leather, wood and brass, together with tailor-made lounges where guests can enjoy a welcome drink while contemplating scenes from Moroccan life on the walls. On either side of the passageway leading to the Salon de Thé by Pierre Hermé and the Spa, six alcoves transport visitors into a world of mystery and exoticism. These intimate spaces, with their roomy banquette seating are conducive to sharing and conviviality, each telling their own story, rather like a curiosity cabinet inviting visitors to explore the true culture of Morocco.
- Finally, the Spa's reception area has also benefited from a major facelift lending it a striking yet subtle feel. The new reception counter is a veritable work of art, combining marble, brass and bush-hammered glass, the transparency of which is enhanced by soft, recessed lighting.