April 10, 2009

Africa & Mideast | Morocco | Marrakech

Manhattan Meets Marrakech

By Nicole Cotroneo

A romantic new riad brings the heavens indoors.

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What happens when a Manhattan designer known for romantic interiors gets his hands on a townhouse in Marrakech? He turns it into Riad Meriem, a jewel box of a boutique hotel with just five suites — each individually designed in “a fusion of Arab and Oriental” style. Thomas Hays has filled his newly-open riad with artisanal furnishings, including lanterns custom-made by the Moroccan royal family’s lamp maker (apparently they have their own), which scatter the richly painted walls with “constellations.” The riad’s centerpiece, however, is its courtyard (think plunge pool and patio lounge), while a jasmine and bougainvillea clad roof terrace commands views of the Koutoubia Mosque, and the Atlas Mountains beyond. Situated in the heart of the medina — the Red City’s 11th-century historic quarter — Riad Meriem is just five minutes from the main square of Djemma el-Fna. Usually jammed with snake-charmers and fire-breathers, the place turns into an outdoor cinema November 30, when the seventh Marrakech International Film Festival takes over for nine days. This year, Ridley Scott and Oliver Stone are expected to be among Hollywood’s honorees.