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Along the road to Ouarzazate, approximately 15 kilometres from Marrakech, lies Villa A&N, an understated blend of architectural minimalism and Morocco’s natural splendour. This oasis, encircled by palm and olive trees against the backdrop of the majestic Atlas Mountains, offers an alternative to riads in the medina – the more conventional choice for city hospitality.
If the blush-coloured earthen walls and vernacular bent of the building look familiar, it’s because their grander design double – the iconic Yves Saint Laurent Museum in Marrakech – was conceived by the same duo: Karl Fournier and Olivier Marty of Studio KO. Villa A&N was the studio’s inaugural project in Morocco, and Fournier and Marty stressed the importance of showing deep respect for the local culture and traditions in the process. ‘For the design of the house itself, we spent a lot of time exploring the nearby villages, observing how people work and build,’ Marty explains. ‘From the size of the windows and doors to the layout that connects houses, many aspects of the villa’s design are influenced by its surroundings.’ Tadelakt plaster walls, for example, make up most of the structure inside, while outside earthy elements are incorporated into the façade, creating a tactile, robust effect – all characterised by terracotta hues that are seen in buildings throughout the city.
The architecture is a masterful blend of clean lines, textured surfaces and refined interiors. Modest apertures and unexpected views harmonise to form a space that feels both intimate and expansive. ‘Natural light plays a pivotal role in all our projects,’ Fournier emphasises. ‘We strategically manage sunlight to create varying intensities, which imbues the space with rhythm.’ Despite its minimalist features, Villa A&N exudes warmth in its interiors, featuring shaggy rugs underfoot, soft leather upholstery, rattan light fixtures and antique decorative objects reminiscent of those found in traditional Moroccan homes.
Nature permeates every facet of Villa A&N, from its lush surroundings to the meticulously landscaped gardens spread across a six-hectare estate. ‘We endeavoured to use materials like wood, stone and earth found on site or nearby,’ Marty notes. This integration allows the villa to blend seamlessly with its natural setting. Guests can wander through aromatic gardens, witness the patches of vegetables that will later be used in the catering, interact with donkeys and chickens, or simply enjoy the serene ambience while exploring the grounds.
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The villa’s layout is thoughtfully designed to accommodate various guest arrangements. Multiple living rooms and a dining area provide ample space for socialising, while a row of interconnected bedrooms, some with outdoor showers, offer a peaceful retreat. A 25-metre infinity pool invites relaxation, complemented by shaded al fresco dining areas under olive trees – numerous enough that guests may never eat in the same place twice – ideal for savouring meals in true Beldi tradition. And it wouldn’t be a true reflection of Moroccan hospitality without a hammam, would it?
The property sits within the portfolio of Le Collectionist, whose offering of luxury properties and considered concierge services make for the utmost tailor-made experiences for holiday-goers. If the villa's grounds, hammam and other leisure facilities weren't enough to keep you stimulated, consult Le Collectionist's book of experiences and simply pick your next adventure.
Villa A&N’s allure extends beyond its architectural finesse and natural surroundings. Karl Fournier and Olivier Marty’s meticulous attention to detail is evident throughout, from the bespoke furnishings to the thoughtful integration of local craftsmanship. ‘We wanted every corner of Villa A&N to evoke a sense of tranquillity and sophistication,’ Marty elaborates. ‘Each piece of furniture, every artful touch, contributes to the overall ambience — a seamless blend of modern comfort and Moroccan heritage.’ This dedication to creating a holistic experience ensures that every stay at Villa A&N is a journey into the heart of Moroccan hospitality and design excellence, pairing architectural brilliance with natural beauty as the central focus – a true reflection of its namesake: what else could ‘A’ and ‘N’ possibly stand for?
Details: lecollectionist.com
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