Villa Mabrouka | Photo: Andrew Montgomery
Amidst the winding streets of Tangier’s medina in Morocco, stands the former home of the legendary fashion icon, Yves Saint Laurent and his lovely partner, Pierre Bergé. Within its historic walls, tales of creativity and glamour reverberated through time. Initially conceived as a personal sanctuary, Villa Mabrouka underwent a metamorphosis and unfurled its intricately carved wooden doors to the public in June 2023. It now emerges with a refreshed identity that seamlessly blends the tapestry of history, contemporary design, and the inherent allure of natural beauty, offering an enchanting sojourn for the discerning traveller.
Yves Saint Laurent, born in Algeria in 1936, experienced a profound creative awakening three decades later during his inaugural visit to Marrakech, a city that would become a transformative muse. During this period, Marrakech was coming into view as a haven for the global elite, with influential figures like Paul and Talitha Getty contributing to its glamorous reputation.
Villa Mabrouka | Photo: Andrew Montgomery
For Saint Laurent, Marrakech became a biannual pilgrimage, serving as a spring of inspiration for his collections. Reflecting on the city’s impact on his artistic perspective, Saint Laurent famously declared, “Before Marrakech, everything was black.” The city, with its vibrant light, daring combinations, and inventive spirit, acted as Saint Laurent’s guide into the realm of colour, inspiring him to embrace a spectrum beyond the constraints of his previous monochromatic palette.
Shortly after, the designer acquired Villa Mabrouka in 1990, a residence whose name translates directly to “House of Luck.”
Villa Mabrouka | Photo: Andrew Montgomery
Perched with a captivating view over the Strait of Gibraltar and the North Atlantic Sea, the home embraces a blend of 1940s modernist architecture, enriched by the warmth of traditional Moroccan design elements, and the cosy allure of English country house interiors.
In 2019, when this storied residence passed into the hands of the esteemed British designer, Jasper Conran, a compelling vision began to unfold. Beyond some essential updates, the designer masterfully transformed the property into a refined 12-suit villa. His discerning touch wove an ambience that effortlessly conjures the beguiling charm of the 1930s.
A haven for solitary contemplation or shared moments with family and friends, the villa, features two crystalline swimming pools, three restaurants, a rooftop coffee and cocktail bar, and three exquisitely adorned garden pavilions for intimate dining. Notably, one of the original pavilions, designed by American architect Stuart Church, has been faithfully restored to its former glory.
Villa Mabrouka | Photo: Andrew Montgomery
The lobby welcomes guests with a symphony of deep, jewel-toned hues complemented by opulent velvet furnishings. A harmonious blend of fragrant flowers and nuanced hints of exotic spices permeated the surroundings whisking visitors to an era where luxury was intricately tied to meticulous attention to detail. Each suite told a unique story, with bespoke furniture, vintage finds, and carefully curated art pieces that reflected the eclectic taste of the era.
Once the master bedroom of the villa, the resplendent space – Marrakech now bears the echoes of its storied past with an exquisite palette of sage green, Tuscan yellow, and cornflower blue. These hues, reminiscent of Yves Saint Laurent’s cherished colours, weave a magical tapestry across the room’s paintwork and soothing textiles.
At the heart of the room, an opulent bed takes centre stage, adorned with the finest linens and cashmere. The ambience resonates with the melodic trill of birdsong and the caress of gentle breezes as the bed faces glazed doors, bordered by 17th-century Spanish tiles, which open onto the suite’s private terrace. This courtyard, with its verdant oasis, serves as the idyllic setting to savour breakfast while casting one’s gaze over the gardens and the sea, extending towards the distant coastline of Spain.
Villa Mabrouka | Photo: Andrew Montgomery
Entering the lavatory, an interplay of light ensues, guided by French 1930s sconces and a gracefully suspended chandelier. Through a vast window, the scene opens to reveal the breathtaking scenery of the blue sky and clear waters. This natural spectacle is thoughtfully framed by cool white walls and an elegant marble-tiled floor, creating a sanctuary where indulgence meets timeless elegance.
Villa Mabrouka | Photo: Andrew Montgomery
Crafted around light, seasonal dishes highlighting market-fresh Mediterranean ingredients, the all-day menu provides a culinary experience that spans from simply grilled daily catches to crisp salads, refreshing side dishes, delectable desserts, and soothing sorbets. Everything is meticulously prepared in-house, from traditional French breads to irresistible sweet biscuits, ensuring a gastronomic journey of exceptional quality and flavour.
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Nestled within verdant landscapes, Villa Mabrouka provides a haven of seclusion, strategically positioned within a leisurely walking distance of neighbouring cities of Kasbah and Medina, affectionately known as ‘The White City.’
