A captivating blend of ancient and modern aesthetics awaits at a quaint yet strikingly innovative abode in the heart of Morocco. Located just outside Essaouira, known as a historic port city, this modern rustic home spans a breathtaking 10-hectare site that oversees rolling hill landscapes, providing an invigorating experience of both cultural and architectural significance.
Advancing Cultural Exchange in Architecture
Designed by the talented Othmane Bengebara, this abode stands as a cultural microcosm, brimming with art, design, and rare literature that epitomizes the evolving dialogue between North Africa and the vast expanse beyond. This unique space serves as an artist’s residence, propelling Morocco’s cultural legacy into contemporary domains.
Integrating with Heritage and Nature
“Together with the owner, we wanted to build this house by integrating it into its human and geographical context,” elucidates Bengebara. Efforts were made to commune with the native Regraga tribe, known for their profound local know-how, and by engaging with local artisans, this home truly became a part of the earth it rises from.
Harmonizing with the Elements
The dwelling’s architecture echoes ancient Moroccan villages, embracing bioclimatic principles that negate the need for mechanical climate control. With smartly designed windows and bays, the residence not only withstands the elements but also utilizes them, showcasing its ingenuity in design. As stated in AD Middle East.
Crafting Connections Between Past and Present
Designed by a young, vibrant team, this home is a beacon for emerging creatives to engage with ancestral practices. Every corner of this home exudes intelligent design, evidenced by the conversation pit in the living room that merges a contemporary essence with a deep appreciation for heritage.
A Hub for Artistic Exchange
Even before its physical creation, the home was rooted in artistic connections, boasting collections that span both North Africa and Europe. From custom pieces by notable designers to collaborations with local artisans, the home is a testament to cultural symbiosis.
A Sensory Exploration
Every element of this Moroccan marvel aims to foster pause and contemplation, to draw individuals into dialogue and discovery. Its craft and materiality, from gouged wood features to bespoke furniture pieces, resonate in harmonious elegance.
Bengebara reflects on the journey as “an extraordinary human adventure.” This space stands today not just as a home but as a thriving hub of hospitality, art, and creation – a testament to the enriching crossroads of tradition and innovative expression.