Studio MHNA: Sofitel Marrakech Palais Imperial in Morocco

Conceptualised by Studio MHNA, the interiors of the new Sofitel Marrakech Palais Imperial in Morocco is a vibrant amalgamation of jewel hues, contemporary touches and traditional design elements.

“The signature design of the 1053m2 hotel is a game between shadow and light; it is a chromatic dance of black and white, punctuated with touches of emerald green and sapphire blue, paying homage to the country’s traditional protector of palaces: the peacock,”

And just like a peacock, the hotel proudly displays its bold design choices when and wherever possible, from the public spaces to the intimate luxury suites.

Upon entering, two majlis immediately catches your eye. The two seating areas are efficiently delineated by black metal screens with a lace-like pattern. While inside each seating area, black canvas seats and cushions with cord embroidery offer comfy areas for socialising.

While in the main salon, a statement chandelier made of bronze, crystal, alabaster, and Limoges porcelain sets the scene, adding elegance and modernity to the space.

Moving further into the hotel, the design slowly unfolds like the tail of a peacock, revealing more colour and detail.

“The corridors are covered with carpets whose peacock-like colours bring warmth to the hotel’s black and white theme,” explains the studio.

“Throughout the 173 rooms and suites, this colourful duo sparks a conversation with the matte whitewashed walls, sculpted staffs, and high-gloss stucco finishes that were developed with local artisans.”

“Studio MHNA celebrated the richness of Morocco’s art and culture, revisiting it in a refined style for this project. Furniture, lighting, staff, embroidery, fabric; each piece is the result of an elaborate research process, both in terms of the motifs and the craftsmen who have accurately interpreted the interior designers’ vision,” says the studio of the result.