A curated collection of design-led riads in Marrakesh

Loving this smoothly crafted pistachio-green sanctuary, complete with its fragrant plant-filled courtyard, terracotta-hued rooftop terraces, and stylish rooms decked out from top to toe in carefully curated treasures. And a special shoutout to the gracious staff, who, despite observing Ramadan, warmly hosted my occasionally demanding family.

Crafted by Belgian textile designer and hotelier @valeriebarkowski, this impeccably restored 17th-century Riad is a true find and one of the finest the city has to offer (and there are many!) Offering four beautifully appointed rooms, each awash in muted palettes of black, pale grays, and white and adorned with the owner’s artistic touches and lavish linens, this design-led hotel exudes understated elegance. Like stepping into a lived-in yet far-from-ordinary home—a perfect sanctuary to unwind from the sensory overload of the city.

You won’t find anything cookie-cutter or mass produced here at @realjardinsecret. A richly decorated creative den stuffed with cozy nooks, artful touches, and eye candy throughout, with its rooftop terrace stealing the spotlight! And we love that this place clearly cares, not only for its staff and the local community but also for the planet. A big thank you to Youssef and Ishmael for their warm welcome, tasty breakfasts, and much-appreciated TLC, as we settled into the city.

This boutique riad enchants guests with its sleek and sophisticated design, blending clean lines, neutral tones, and uncluttered spaces with traditional Moroccan architecture. Each room offers a serene atmosphere, letting the simplicity of the furnishings highlight the beauty of the overall aesthetic.

This exquisite riad is a testament to Moroccan craftsmanship and contemporary aesthetics. The interiors are a feast for the eyes, artfully combining intricate Moroccan details, like hand-carved woodwork and vibrant zellige tiles, with sleek modern design elements.

Jean Noel's Dar Baa Laroub emerges as one of the initial guesthouses within Marrakesh's medina, maintaining its status as a cherished residence for over three decades. This intimately curated home-away-from-home exudes an enduring charm, adorned with vintage furniture, well-read books, colonial furniture, and tasteful art. The seven bedrooms are uniquely distinctive and vary in size, boasting features such as hand-painted ceilings and zellij-tiled spacious bathrooms.

This design bolthole blends contemporary elegance with traditional Moroccan aesthetics. The interiors showcase meticulous attention to detail, featuring a harmonious fusion of vibrant colors, intricate tile work, and locally crafted furnishings. The thoughtful curation of spaces in Riad Mena echoes the design philosophy seen in Berber Lodge, where every element contributes to refined comfort while preserving the distinctive charm of Moroccan craftsmanship. Riad Mena stands as a testament to the enduring allure of Marrakesh's design landscape, offering guests a stylish retreat in the heart of the city.

Ryad Dyor in Marrakesh offers a distinct blend of intimacy, design, and character. This boutique ryad is characterized by a carefully curated fusion of contemporary and traditional Moroccan elements. The emphasis on intimacy is reflected in private spaces and personalized details, creating an atmosphere that feels like a personal escape. The design is tasteful, featuring vibrant colors and intricate tilework that capture the essence of modern elegance in Marrakesh. Each room has a unique identity, contributing to an immersive experience that goes beyond typical accommodation.

L'Hotel Marrakesh is a design aficionado's dream nestled in the heart of the city. This boutique gem captivates with its thoughtfully curated interiors that seamlessly blend Moroccan aesthetics with contemporary allure. Each corner of the hotel is a visual delight, featuring a harmonious fusion of vibrant colors, intricate tilework, and locally inspired decor.

Think moody tones paired with elegant copper bathtubs, sleek marble floors, leafy courtyards, and pops of edgy art throughout. Crafted by Belgian owners Veerle De Pauw and Tom Van Even, this 12-room visual feast delivers in spades on swanky modern design, laidback luxury and warm hospitality. Better yet, the hoteliers are sticklers when it comes to glass bottled water, farm-to-table fresh ingredients, and sourcing local.

This design-centric boutique hotel offers a stylish escape with its tastefully curated interiors and modern aesthetics. And the leafy courtyard with its delightfully comfy loungers and green tiled pool is the perfect spot to unwind and soak in the Moroccan ambiance.