The Oberoi, Marrakech

An Overview

The Oberoi, Marrakech reflects the traditional Moroccan and Andalusian architectural styles used in the grand palaces of the 14th century Merenid Dynasty. It also takes inspiration from the iconic Medersa Ben Youssef; one of Marrakech's most famous historic monuments. As the architect, Patrick Collier, explains: "The project is designed like a traditional palace. It derives meaning from its relationship with the gardens and plantations, as is the case with authentic Moroccan architecture.

Location 

The Oberoi, Marrakech is located in twenty-eight acres of beautifully landscaped gardens, fragrant citrus orchards and olive groves with spectacular views of the snow-capped Atlas Mountains. The resort is located twenty five minutes from the international airport, Jemâa El Fna square and the ancient walled city.

With over a thousand years of history behind it, Marrakech captivates all who venture within its ochre-coloured walls. A city of many faces and contrasts, where the sights, smells, colours and sounds unite gloriously to compose an astounding sensorial symphony. Step inside the ancient medina, souks, riads, palaces and perfectly manicured gardens, and be transported back to the annals of history. Beyond the timeless face of Marrakech, a modern 21st century city emerges with luxury hotels, fine dining restaurants, international shopping, designer boutiques and an exhilarating cultural and nightlife scene. The diversity of its surroundings, rich history and well preserved charm, combined with the warm hospitality of its people, makes Marrakech a favoured destination with travellers from across the world.

Layout and Design Features

The main building of The Oberoi is geometrically laid out like an Andalusian royal residence, such as Al Hambra. It has an imposing facade of robust walls and handcrafted, fortified doors, behind which lies an inner sanctum ornate with delicate Andalusian design elements; from intricately hand carved woodwork domes and archways, to zellige mosaic wall tiles with vibrant colours and complex geometric designs, and grand panels of sculpted plasterwork fashioned with auspicious phrases in Arabic such as El Afia El Bakia (Eternal Health). The area is embraced by walls with ornate latticework grilles and double arched windows, which fill the space with light and breathtaking views of our landscaped gardens, the ancient olive groves and Atlas Mountains.

The centrepiece of the main building is a sunlit courtyard with fountains and water bodies such as there would have been to refresh the royal horses in ancient times. It was also customary for residences to have a water body for guests in their reception area. This was of spiritual significance and also for visitors to refresh themselves in, having completed a long journey. Inspired by these traditions, the signature piece of our central courtyard is a grand black basin that gives an illusion of infinite depth. A large central flame appears miraculously balanced upon its glass-like water. At night, the firelight lends an air of mystical beauty to the whole building, with its play of light and shadows upon the carvings and alcoves.

Gardens

The gardens at The Oberoi have been designed to delight the senses. The aroma of fragrant plants and trees drifts upon the air. Water can be heard trickling in the fountains. Sunlight dapples through the trees and sparkles off the water. The colours of the foliage and flowers are bright against the azure sky.

The garden has been geometrically designed according to the ancient metaphorical belief that in heaven, spiritual order quells the wild disorder of nature. The flowerbeds are arranged in thematic clusters, and filled with aromatic plants and succulents. As well as the ancient olive groves and citrus orchards, guests will also find native Mediterranean cypress trees that provide cool shade during the heat of the day.

The gardens at The Oberoi are an oasis of peace and tranquillity, where guests can indulge in meditative contemplation while strolling along the tree-lined promenades, beside the grand canal or while relaxing on a seat in the shade.

Water is also a universal symbol of life. Based on these principles, at the heart of the gardens is a grand canal; a potent source of meditative energy which the tree-lined walkways lead to and from.

As well as the grand canal, The Oberoi is dotted with beautiful water bodies such as the grand basin, The Oberoi Spa lake and ornate fountains.