An artistic riad in Marrakech where Moroccan craftsmanship, contemporary art, and creative spirit come together.
In the old medina of Marrakech, close to the busy souks, you’ll find the boutique hotel IZZA. From the outside it looks simple. But behind the walls there is a place where art, history, and Moroccan craft come together. This place has a really unique feel to it, it’s like a big house, but it’s actually a hotel made up of several old riads all connected together. When you’re here, it’s easy to forget you’re in a hotel at all, it’s more like you’re just hanging out in someone’s really cool private home. The atmosphere is super chill and relaxed, but at the same time, it’s also a magnet for all sorts of creative types – artists, writers, and other imaginative people who come here to find inspiration. The story behind the name IZZA is really interesting, it’s inspired by Lalla Izza, a Berber woman who used to own the property where the hotel stands today.
Now, the hotel has 14 beautiful rooms, and each one is named after a famous free spirit who has a connection to Marrakech. You’ll find rooms named after people like Grace Jones, the legendary musician, Jack Kerouac, the famous writer, and Cecil Beaton, the renowned photographer – all of whom were part of the city’s vibrant bohemian scene back in the day.
Design shaped by Marrakech’s creative era
The hotel’s style is really shaped by Bill Willis, a famous American interior designer. He played a big role in creating Marrakech’s unique design scene back in the 1900s. What’s interesting about Willis is that he loved combining traditional Moroccan crafts with elegant European touches. This blend of styles is still seen in many homes throughout the city, and it’s a big part of what makes Marrakech so special. Willis’s design philosophy continues to influence the way people decorate their homes, and it’s easy to see why – the mix of old and new, traditional and modern, is just so beautiful. At IZZA you see this in the materials and details. The walls are finished in tadelakt. Floors and surfaces use handmade zellige tiles. Wooden doors are carved by hand. Most of the furniture comes from the 1940s to the 1960s.
The colors are soft and calm. Shelves filled with books and art give the rooms a personal feel. The classic riad design is what this building is all about. You’ve got these narrow staircases that wind up and down, and little changes in level that make you feel like you’re navigating a maze. But then, tucked away between the rooms, are these peaceful courtyards with trees, fountains, and comfy spots to sit and unwind. And if you’re looking for a cozy spot to relax, some of the lounge areas have fireplaces and snug little corners to curl up in. It’s like a little oasis, hidden away from the rest of the world.
A hotel and a gallery
IZZA is not just a place to stay. It also works as an art gallery. The walls are covered with art. You’ll see photography, contemporary works, and digital pieces, including NFT projects. The collection is chosen by the hotel’s owners. The artists come from North Africa and from other parts of the world. The result is a mix of traditional Moroccan architecture and modern art.
“House of Friends”
The hotel describes itself as a “House of Friends.” The idea is simple. Travelers and creative people should feel at home here. The atmosphere is relaxed. Guests often spend time in the shared spaces, like the library, the lounges, and the terraces. The rooftop terrace is where everyone gathers, a hub of activity with several levels all connected and offering stunning views out over the rooftops of the Medina. As the evening falls, the space transforms into a warm and inviting atmosphere, filled with the soft glow of candlelight. It’s also where you can enjoy a peaceful lunch or dinner, the calm setting making it the perfect spot to unwind and take in the sights and sounds of the surrounding area.
Food with Moroccan roots
The restaurant concept was created by Paul Weaver, a former head chef at the London restaurant Bob Bob Ricard. The menu is based on local ingredients and Moroccan flavors, but the dishes are presented in a simple, modern way. In Morocco, you can start your day with a delicious breakfast. They often have fresh fruit salad, smoothies, or eggs cooked in a special way called shakshuka. Sometimes, they serve traditional pancakes with a sweet treat called amlou. Amlou is made with almonds, honey, and argan oil, which gives it a rich and tasty flavor.
A quiet contrast to the city
Just a few minutes away are Marrakech’s busy markets, full of sound, smells, and crowds. But inside IZZA the feeling is different. Shaded courtyards, art on the walls, and small seating areas create a calm and private space. IZZA is more than just a spot to rest your head. It’s a tiny cultural hub tucked away in the medina, where creative design, amazing art, and traditional Moroccan vibes all come together in one amazing space.
