Australian Art Deco design may not be an obvious choice for a new Riad in Morocco. Yet the launch of luxury boutique Riad Botanica by Angela Mellak proves that bold design and a strong narrative can help achieve exceptional results.
“When renovating a Riad, many can get caught up in the cliche of Moroccan design and play into boho vibes,” explains Angela. “However, working with Australian Interior Designer Claire Cau-Cecile brought in another perspective. This partnership allowed us to take elements of Moroccan design and incorporate it with a broader concept of the Western interpretation of Arabic cultural influences.”
The Art Deco Design Brief
The brief for this major renovation was to help fuse Australian design into a classic Riad (a traditional Moroccan guest house with an interior garden) to create an inviting, luxurious, elegant and sophisticated space.
The original nine-room residence was to be transformed into a property requiring up to six rooms to accommodate 12 guests. This was to include common areas, dining spaces, lounge and reception. The interiors needed to be design-led, elegant but also vibrant, and colourful.
Australian Art Deco Design & Morocco
“When one thinks of Morocco, one wouldn’t automatically think of Art Deco until entering the big, centuries-old doors into the hidden world of luxurious hotels, restaurants and boutique Riads. The contrast of noisy, dusty streets is palpable. Navigating the small streets of 10th century Medina to find architectural gems that pay homage to such a time, really is like looking for a needle in a haystack,” explains Angela.
“Our love of all things Art Deco, Australian design and contemporary designers led us to Australian Art Deco design icon, Florence Broadhurst. Her designs are seen throughout the Riad as wallpaper and textiles.”
“The soul of Riad Botanica is our beloved centuries-old orange tree, breathing life into the heart of our guest house. The tree represents the tree of life for our Riad and the heart of our brand. In addition, it fuses Australian indoor-outdoor lifestyle and the genius of Islamic architectural design to maximise natural cooling and ventilation.”
(paired with Luxor Emerald, Crown & Victoria)
Materialised Product
From the reception area and private dining room through to the bedrooms, Florence Broadhurst’s Arabian Birds wallpaper and Arabian Birds textiles are featured.
“We looked to create similar elements in different colour combinations for each room,” says Claire. “The room names play on plant names and the desire to harness the patterns and contrasting colours of Florence Broadhurst wallpaper and textiles.”
The Materialised Team
“From the sampling through to the quotation, the experience working with Materialised was seamless. They were only too happy to help,” says Angela. “The packaging was perfect to haul in six suitcases across the world!”
“Furthermore, Materialised helped us beyond selling product. From day one, they heard our story and helped celebrate our achievement in bringing an Australian icon all the way to Morocco.”
The Result
“As a small luxury boutique working in a highly saturated market, the competition is fierce. It was therefore essential to differentiate ourselves and make an impact quickly,” explains owner and marketing expert Angela.
“Within the first six weeks, Riad Botanica became the top three most Instagrammable Riads in Marrakech. Furthermore, it reached 80% occupancy within the first two months of opening. This meant it became the first property in Marrakech to join Top World Hotel only 12 months post-opening.”
“We are very young on our Riad journey and have so many more plans up our sleeve that we’re excited to share in the next 12 months.” – Angela Mellak.
The Team & Credits
Interior Design and Styling: Claire Cau-Cecile
Photographer: © Alan Keohane
Marketing/website/social: Exanimo
Other Key Manufacturers/Suppliers: St Albans, Kaz Ceramics, Air Aroma
Materialised Team: NSW
About the Author: Catherine McGowan
