maison marrakech

Maison De Marrakech Early Spring Collection...

2012-02-10T06:43:00.000-08:00

It just snowed early this morning in London, but the snow has melted all by noontime...
I feel winter is fighting its last fight, but eventually, spring will win its way..
Sometimes, you just have to wait and enjoy the waiting.
I'm posting some of my early spring collection, for those ready to go out and can't wait for spring!
There are lots of Moroccan inspired Tunics and Caftans to wear at home and for outside...
If you want to see more, visit http://www.maisondemarrakech.com/
With lots of Love,
Rx

Maison de Marrakech Belydance

2011-12-08T16:59:00.000-08:00

Hi Everyone!
I've just had a bellydance show, where I've dance with a fan veil.
Hope you enjoy watching this :)
Hope you can join my blog/face book and get more info about my new Bohemian Chic Designs, Interior Desgins and Moroccan Culture. I love everything beautiful and exotic!
Also, there will be some giveaways coming up soon, so stay tuned!!

Maison Marrakech new announcement☆☆

2011-10-19T08:45:00.000-07:00

It's been 1 month since I've updated my blog. It's terrible that I am so irregular in the things I do....
Well, I have a good reason, as we are creating our new webshop.
For those who know me for my tunic/dresses & fashion, we are now going into business with upper class
Moroccan elegant furnitures!
We will be designing furnitures as:
Small side tables
Lanterns
Lamps
Candles
Cushions
carpets
leather pouffes
babouche slippers
indoor/outdoor fashion

We will be announcing in the close future of our new website: http://www.maisondemarrakech.com/
(which isn't working just yet!!)
For those who would like a peep into our world, here are some of our lamps we will be selling...

It was love at first sight we the moroccan design....My dream is to fill my life with all the beautiful things from this lovely exotic country and share it with you...

Moroccan Autumn Inspirations

2011-09-12T06:31:00.000-07:00

Hello there everyone!
Last time I've posted my blog, it was just August and it was hot/humid unbearable in Marrakech. We were resting under our terrace, drinking ice cold moroccan mint tea...
Now, things has changed, and it's turning into Autumn again. Even in Marrakech, there is a four season, and yes, we do need coats in the winter in the night time (it drops to 5-8 degrees!).
The day time is still hot here in Marrakech, but I can feel the season changing in the night time...ah, it's that time of year again.
Autumn is a great time to explore things different and new.
I'm working on our new Autumn/Winter collection with different Tunics/Dresses for the cold season.
I'm very busy ordering and making the collection, but for the time being, I'd like to share a Moroccan Autumn Inspiration...

Love from Marrakech,

Moroccan Handira- a beautiful woven art

2011-08-11T07:48:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone! Are you enjoying the summer still? I'd love to share with you another Moroccan art called the 'handira'. It's a beautiful piece of textile woven from sheep wool and hundreds of sequins. It's meant to be a traditional Moroccan wedding blanket.

In the Berber villiages of Morocco (Berber is the original group which lived in Morocco for centuries and have their own culture, writing and language very different from the arabic Moroccans!), the femail members of the bride spend months hand sewing this beautiful blanket. The Berber bride will wear the handira as a cape for the journey into their new home and will use it for the first night to spend with her new husband.

As a designer, I find this sequin wedding blanket very trendy for any bedroom, and will add that extra luxury and exotic feeling to a peaceful and calming atmosphere.

It useful not just for a bed cover, but could be used anywhere in your room especially over your sofa.

It also makes it a special feeling that everything is handmade, and was meant to give good luck, prosperity to the new family the bride was meant to spend her life with.

I have a handira as well in our bedroom, and I'm loving it every day! It just brings that special feeling into the home decor!

If you are interested in buying Handira's let me know! I sell some in our stock and would love to share this lovely Moroccan art with you☆

with love from Marrakech,

Peacock Pavilions-wonderful bohemian dream

2011-07-20T09:01:00.000-07:00

Hello Everyone!
It's been almost 3 weeks since I've writen my blog. And this always happens when I'm off to Marrakech. I always love to indulge myself in the Moroccan culture 100% and forget about all my troubles, work etc...just forget about the everyday normal things and concentrate on the extraordinary.

It's good, everyone needs to switch off from time to time and renew their energies...hope you have a change to re-energise yourself soon :)
Talking about extraordinary and re-newing yourself, what's better than doing this in Morocco. My exotic retreat and inspiration!

Here is another one of my favorite hotel boutique...check this one. It's called the Peacock Pavilion and is located just outskirts of Marrakech. Hope you enjoy the photos, and see you soon in Marrakech x

Zenza...Wonderful Moroccan Ideas...

2011-06-28T08:33:00.000-07:00

I am now looking at beautiful Morccan Inspired Stores all around the world. There are so many, it's amazing! From California USA to Netherlands, Germany, Japan...it's endless. Beauty is borderless, yes, without a doubt.

Today, I'd like to take you to a store in Netherlands called Zenza. A beautiful Minimalistic Morccan Designs...Enjoy!!

I love this simple decor!! Yet, very moroccan....

Beautiful Exotic Designs...love to have these in the house.

Great idea for your home lighting too...

Playing with the shadows....very Moroccan taste.

Address for this wonderful shop :
Zenza

Utrechtsestraat 101
1017 VK Amsterdam
Tel: 020-4230070

Love from Marrakech,

R&B Collective, a pop-up Moroccan Bazaar in LA...

2011-06-22T08:41:00.000-07:00

This shop is reminds me of the Souk in Syria or Marrakech...

A beautifully bohemian place to get interior ideas...

Really cozy corner..Love the Moroccan Pouffe there..

Exotic trays & Tea pots...why not buy one and invite your friends for an exotic tea time?

There's something about LA that I love, and can connect to...Not because I grew up there and feel close to the Californians, but because of their lovely choice of Bohemian lifestyle. LA is such a beautiful boho city to me, and will always be close to me...

Here's a great pop-up shop which opened just a year ago in Brentwood, LA called "R+G Collective".
Their collection is amazing! From the tea tables of Syria to the beautiful handcrafted leather pouffes from Morocco, Marrakech... If you live in LA, this shop is a treat for all exotic travellers, except that you don't have to travel at all! Just endulge yourself in the mystic cultures...

Abit about the background of this shop. Hollywood art director, Wendy Riva & Andrea Gibbin collaborated on the shop with interior designers Eric Hughes & Nathan Turner. The shop also features clothing by Minnie Mortimer & Soledad Twombly...
I hope my design Tunics & Caftans "Maison Marrakech" might be selected in their shop one day....☆
Their address:
R + G Collective, 11981 San Vicente Blvd., California, + 1(USA) 310-729-7775

Love from Marrakech,

Inspiration for Boho Beds...

2011-06-17T08:03:00.000-07:00

I love the weekends! (Who doesn't??) On Saturday mornings, I love to just lay on my bed and not worry about what's happening outside in the world. I just want to indulge myself in the bedroom I love...
Here are some inspiration for Bohemian look Bed Designs...Hope this gives inspiration to your weekend too.
Happy Friday ☆

I'm in love with this beautiful blue...Very playful, yet soft...

Just look at this gorgeouse wooden engrave. It's an artpiece to admire...

Very clean, fresh room, yet it still has a Bohemian Flair...like the Vases, I love them!

A mixture of Moroccan & Indian designs...It's one of my favorite...Live like a princess..

Much love & Inspiration from Marrakech,

Momo - my favorite hung out in London...

2011-06-15T08:39:00.000-07:00

Happy Wednesday Everyone! I always love to chill out in the middle of the week. I usually give myself that special treatment ☆Normally, I go to the gym on weekdays, except for Wednesday, as it's my chill out day...time to chill out and spend some time in an exotic space...
When I'm in London, my favorite chill out place is Momo. For those living in London, it's a must to try.

I usually start by relaxing in their terrace outside with a sheesha (water pipe) in my hand, bubbling away...it's really relaxing, and I like the taste, very fruity. Whilst I am enjoying my bubbles, I order some of their new tea time sets. And spend another more couple of hours with my friends. Sometimes, I may come on my own to feel the inspiration..

The Moroccan-inspired afternoon tea offers a mix of classic English scones and cheesecakes alongside authentic Maghrebine pastries or a Moroccan chicken wrap savoury option. Teas range from traditional English to exotic – the Hamman, a Turkish variety of green tea, is also superb. Afternoon tea at Momo will be served from 2.30pm-5.30pm every day; prices start at £9.50 for tea and scones, while the full selection, including cakes, savoury snacks and teas, is £22 per person. Call 020 7434 4040 to book.

http://www.momoresto.com/restaurant/london/momo/

with love from Marrakech,

Riad Fernachi-The Ancient meets the Nouveau...

2011-06-07T08:19:00.000-07:00

It's tuesday, and it's time for me to select another wonderful riad that lies in Marrakech. There are so many houses and riads that are unique, it's amazing. No wonder it captivates and mesmerizes so many artist in the world...

Riad Farnatchi has been created out of five small Riads in the heart of the oldest part of Marrakech. Houses have stood on the site for many centuries and some of our walls go back over 400 years. You could see in all the rooms the marriage of the antique engravings, arches etc to the modern furniture and designs.

They know the most important thing in elegance, which is to keep things simple! Yet, it's got all the Moorish element...something you could copy in your home.

For the Moroccan's, the bathtime is an important ritual of the day. This one is like a Hamman, where the whole bathroom becomes the 'bathtub'. I love spending time in Moroccan baths, imagine floating hundreds of red rose petals in this bathtub with candellights..absolute romance.

I recommend this riad, which blends the old & new, tradition and the western decor beautifully...Hope you have time to stay at this riad when you come by Marrakech.

Address: Riad Farnatchi

Derb el Farnatchi
Rue Souk el Fassis
Qua'at Ben Ahid
Marrakech Medina
MOROCCO

With Amour,

My favorite Morccan Colour...

2011-06-06T09:06:00.000-07:00

Happy Monday Everyone!

This Monday, I send you my most favorite Moroccan Colour...

It's peaceful, yet dramatic. Hipp, yet elegant...

Hope you have an inspiring week ahead xx

maison marrakech: Le Marchebag...

2011-06-06T02:54:00.000-07:00

maison marrakech: Le Marchebag...: "The real summer season is coming and I'm sure you'll all be heading towards the sea, the beach, or the resort! What more do you need than..."

Le Marchebag...

2011-06-01T08:35:00.000-07:00

The real summer season is coming and I'm sure you'll all be heading towards the sea, the beach, or the resort!
What more do you need than a trendy, hippie elegant marchebag!!
Marchebags aren't just a summer bag, but it came from France, where people picked up the local bags they use in everyday life in Morroco, and have turned it into a trend.

The most sought after designer bag in the world is Hermes' Birkin bag named after Jane Birkin, the British actress who became famous in France in the 70's. She looked effortlessly chic even when she was carrying a basket full of her shopping or groceries. In France, Marche bags (also known as the couffin bag) are a common sight in France and they are weaved in Morocco using palm tree leaves. They are light, sturdy, practical, versatile and 100% natural. They are also less harsh to the touch compared to baskets made in China. Saw some beautiful ones at a fair so I got one for grocery shopping. It will also be perfect for a picnic in the park.

Ask anyone French, and more or less, they will know "Marchebag"...Let's start this French/Moroccan Trend here too!!
Tell me what you think. Do you like Marchebags?

with love from Marrakech,

Mamounia-The Timeless Palace...

2011-05-26T04:21:00.000-07:00

"Reminiscent of a far away time and place, La Mamounia evokes a modern day fairytale.

Such a haven is often sought after but rarely found.

Combining the best the modern world has to offer with traditional values, La Mamounia

provides an experience so unique, it becomes an integral part of the myth, that defines it..."

Jaques Garcia, Designer & Architect

Just love the beautiful red accent on the Moroccan Lamp!

Gorgeous in every detail....

A fab marriage of the Moorish & the Western Design

Just love these Ziln Designs...

A Moorish courtyard, living in its independant time, eternal...

La Mamounia is one of Marrakech’s most legendary hotels that was recently restored to the tune of US176 million under the watchful eye of acclaimed designer Jacques Garcia. Located close to the Souk and Madina with views of Koutoubia Mosque and the Atlas Mountains, La Mamounia is as Winston Churchill said in 1943 to Franklin D. Roosevelt; “the most lovely spot in the whole world”. It’s also the hotel that Carrie Bradshaw and her girlfriends stay in during Sex & the City 2 when they holidayed in Abu Dhabi (the move was actually filmed in Marrakesh.)

There are 209 rooms and 71 suites, two Michelin star restaurants – Le Francais and L’Italien – and three amazing bars to lounge stylishly in while you soak in the atmosphere before dinner. Check out Le Bar Marocain located on the rooftop which amazing views of the Atlas Mountains.

Facilities here are as you can imagine too are totally top-notch. There’s an amazing pool decorated with fish-scale tiles and flanked by palm trees. For those who love to spa, you’ve come to the right place. The marble and mosaic spa is decorated with ornate ceilings, arched columns and bold art deco lamps.

The spa even has its own signature products of black soap, Argan oil, rose water and organe blossom water and offers all Shiseido products for your treatments which you can choose to have from three hammams, nine treatment rooms and six outdoor massage cabins.

I loved staying at this hotel, it's simply a bliss, a dream, a romance come true. Live the ultimate Moorish Luxury...

Hope you can visit Mamounia one day...

A prier pour Marrakech (A prayer for Marrakech)-A Blue Marrakech

2011-05-23T03:34:00.000-07:00

Hello Everyone,

I am back once again in London, as we were in Marrakech, and the desert of Sahara for 3 weeks. Once again, for those who don't know me, my hubby and our beautiful little daughter live in London & in Marrakech. We spend our time, creating and working in several different fields both in London/Marrakech...

2 weeks ago, Marrakech was bombed by one person who clearly was against any peace and religion. He bombed the most busiest and unique part of Marrakech, our wonderful SOUK (Jma El Fna). It was targeted to visitors who happily came to Marrakech to explore the exotic and beautiful country.
I pray for the victims whose lives were lost, and for Marrakech to overcome this terroistic deed.

I love Marrakech from my heart and although I am Japanese, consider it as my home. It's hippy, unique, sincere, and warm. "Islam" stands for "peace".
Blue is a peaceful colour, so today, I'm posting pictures of 'Majorelle' blue in hope Marrakech will restore its peace soon...
P.S. Majorelle blue is one of the most complex blue you could ever get, and this exact colour could only be made in Marrakech. You can't make this colour anywhere else.How special is that!

I shall be posting my blog more regularly from now on!
with much Love,

Lovely Easter Holiday...

2011-04-21T08:38:00.000-07:00

It's thursday! One more day to go until Easter Holiday kicks in...I can't wait. We will be in Marrakech in our new home :o) We have been working on our new home for over a year now. It's coming along well, but we're still in the process of buying furniture etc...so, it might still take awhile till I could finally post it on my blog☆ Can't wait! Our interior decor is 100% moroccan, so stay tuned!

In the meantime, hope you have a lovely Easter Holiday. I will be busy thinking about my new collections for early summer. When I come back to London, I will be posting new items for my shop.
Stay tuned also for my new babouche collections!! I'll be bringing back spring-summer babouches which would fit perfect for your interiors. Bring a little Marrakech to your home...
Would you wear a babouche in your house?

Riad Charai...☆

2011-04-13T04:17:00.000-07:00

It's getting hotter and hotter in Marrakech, and definately the summer is approaching.

August is quite unbareable in Marrakech because of the extreme heat (sometimes it goes +40 degrees!),

but otherwise, it's a perfect paradise for a summer holiday.

I always love a riad where there is a nice inspirational place to chill out and cool down, after coming back from the heat outside.

I'd love to introduce you another hidden gem riad called Charai. The name came from an aristocratic family who lived there in the 19th century.

This is riad is close to the centre Souk, Jma Efna, and is close to the famous Zaouia Mosque, and the Bab Tarhzout.

Just love this rustic design! Truely bohemian and elegant...

Love how they bring tradition and simplicity to style☆

Just imagine yourself chilling out in this cool shaded lounge after a long shopping day...

Endulge yourself in the very Moroccan setting, feeling like a goddess, restoring your energy...

Let me know how you like this riad...Do you feel like relaxing here? Do you get inspiration from the wonderful decor? For me, it's full of good vibes and inspiration...I am sure to visit to this magical place again!

Amour de Marrakech, maasalama!

Moroccan Doors...Le Baab de Maghrib

2011-04-07T09:04:00.000-07:00

Hello Everybody! Sorry I have been away again and was busy working on some new designs for my Spring collection. I will be going away to Marrakech again during the Easter holidays, if anyone wants me to buy something, or you would like me to design something 'Moroccan' for them. Do let me know and I will always try to accomodate...

Today's topic is about Moroccan doors. The door plays an important part of the deco of the house. It's not just a door. But it's full of characters and colour. You could almost imagine how it's like inside the house. Moroccan doors keeps the house mysterious and making the passers wonder how it may look like inside the house.
Often behind those mysterious doors, there is an unexpected courtyard, an beautiful open space with lots of light hidden. I love these doors. It's like a women hiding her secret, her gem inside and keeping herself mysterious to the world.
I can't help but to knock on the door and let myself in...

Dar Seven, hippy boutique hotel

2011-03-23T07:15:00.000-07:00

Hello Marrakech, Morocco lovers!! Another wonderful Riad I want to introduce to you today. It's also always good to get interior ideas from these riads too!
Dar Seven in Marrakech feels like an elegant home fit for royalty. Pots of olive trees, huge blonde antique doors and a dining table in the open-air courtyard look set for a glamorous interiors shoot. Cream-coloured linen abounds; cubbies of elegant cream-upholstered sofas and dark brown wooden furniture create a colour palette more Ralph Lauren than Moroccan riad. Utterly tranquil; magnificently chic.
Rooms are from 150EUR (double room). Very convenient price for an elegant holiday.
If you are interested in staying at Dar Seven, the address is:
Derb ibn Moussa, Kaa Sour 7, Marrakech, 40000

Jad Mahal...

2011-03-16T09:13:00.000-07:00

I realised there are so many places you could go and chill out in Marrakech. It's amazing, in such a small area, there are so many beautiful, exotic bars, restaurants and clubs, it's heaven to party goers.
And the crowd there are normally very relaxed and posh. You don't feel pushed or feel that it's too loud.
It's all just nice and cozy...
Another hidden jem spot is Jad Mahal.
They have combined the exotic Moroccan with the Indian style.

The moment you set foot at Jad Mahal, the whole experience is magical. From the entrance to the tone setting, its mystic waterfeatures, lighting, everything about Jad Mahal is sensual, exotic and magical. You have got to go there!

Not only that, whilst you are invited to their very moroccan & international cuisine, you will be seduced by the various shows they present to you: fire eaters, musicians, belly dancers to name a few...

If you want a night to remember of, here's where you can get it...

You'll be awed by the combination of the Indian collection and the Moroccan Collection! So exotic...

So cozy...imagine a dancer and show entertaining you here...

It's really like living the 1001 Nights (Alf leyla wa Leyla)!

Je pence au Japon...

2011-03-14T09:44:00.000-07:00

Today, I am still shocked of what happened in Japan... Being a Japanese, although I live in London & Marrakech, my heart will always belong to Japan. It's my motherland and will always be special to me. I usually post Beautiful moroccan interior homes, but today, I would like to post some of the beauty of Japan, to tribute this to the people in Japan.

Thinking of their recovery...

This weeks recipe...Chicken Pastilla !

2011-03-10T08:53:00.000-08:00

MMM-!! Whenever I am in Marrakech, I long for some nice Pastilla. For those who are not familiar with Pastilla (Moroccan Pastery), go check out Pastilla.
Although it's quite sweet, Moroccans consider this as a formal dish, not a dessert.
The ingredients are mainly chicken (traditionally they use pigeons), sugar, almonds, cinamon, eggs wrapped up in a pie. The mixture of flavour is just gorgeous! I recommend you try when you've got time...Just the flavour bring you to an exotic world.

And here's the recipe...

☆Ingredients☆

4 boneless skinless chicken breasts

salt &pepper
1 bunch fresh parsley
ginger
6 eggs, 1 egg beaten
2 cups almonds, blanched, browned on the stove

12 phyllo pastry
1 cup sugar
cinnamon

1.In a large pot, put chicken cut into quarters with salt, pepper and ginger along with enough water to cover. Cook on heat heat until chicken is soft and falling from the bones. Remove from liquid, skin and debone the chicken, and cut meat into small pieces and set aside.

2.In same large pot, add the six eggs one by one, beating as you go. When all are beaten in and almost set, remove mixture and let cool, dividing into two parts and discarding any liquid. Chop the browned almonds and divide into two.

3.In a 9x12 inch baking dish, begin the assembly by placing four sheets of the philo dough, brushing oil over each sheet before placing the next on top. Next, place in 1/2 the egg mixture and sprinkle sugar and cinnamon on top. Place two more philo sheets (with oil between), and place 1/2 the chicken. Sprinkle this with sugar and cinammon too. Next Place 2 more philo sheets (with oil between), and place 1/2 the almond mixture in, sprinkling with sugar and cinammon on top. Cover this with 2 more philo sheets, and start this assembly process again. Two sheets philo, almonds, two sheets philo, chicken, two sheets philo, eggs, two sheets philo.

4.Brush the top of the last sheets of philo with beaten egg. Bake at 350 degrees until golden, 25-35 minutes.

Happy cooking...
Bon appetit, Bismilla...

Dar Darma-A Hidden Charm

2011-03-08T07:21:00.000-08:00

It's tuesday! And it's the day to introduce another beautiful ryad from my favorite city, Marrakech...The ryad is called Dar Darma. Read the info below...
Dar Darma was built in the XVIII century and is situated in the old quarter of Moqf in the heart of the Medina. A few steps from the Museum of Marrakech, the Koranic school Ben Youssef and close to the famous square Jemaa El Fna, the riad is the ideal starting point for discovering the beauties of the city.

It covers an area of approximately 1,200 m2, offering absolute privacy and an atmosphere of great elegance.
Dar Darma has been restored preserving the valuable elements decorating the interiors as the hand-painted wooden ceilings, the delighful plasterwork and the precious ancient portals.
At guests' disposal 4 luxurious suites and 2 apartments: rooms with fireplace, one or two bedrooms with private bathroom and all comfort. The spacious rooms, the traditional hammam, terraces with shaded lounges, swimming pool and a spectacular view of the city complete the offer of the dwelling.
Faithful to the architectural tradition Moroccan Dar Darma features a patio with central bath and a shaded area of green plants, located in the two central parts of the building.
Dar Darma is not a traditional hotel, rather a private palace that offers a personalized service and never formal. Out of standard and full of personality, is an ideal place for the most demanding travelers looking for exclusivity, privacy and comfort.

For those who would love to book the hotel for a special occassion:
Address: 11/12, Trik (rue) Sidi Bohuarba, 40000
Marrakech - Morocco
Tel: 00212 5 24 38 07 08
http://www.dardarma.com/

This hotel is full of details and designs...full of inspiration...

Classical yet Bohemian....it's a magical atomsphere..

Beach Caftan Wear...

2011-03-04T08:22:00.000-08:00

I was flipping through a magazine and just found a really nice caftan collection for summer, especially as a beachwear... You think it's still ahead, but it's almost April, and soon summer is just a corner away!
These are from Ropa Pemmaraju's collection. She is a famous indian designer. You can see subtle touches from the Middle-east, and the Orient.

You can see the gorgeous stones/diamonds at the edges...Very Oriental there...

Imagine wearing this for your holiday...Pure Goddess!

See you next week, and have a wonderful weekend,

Azar Marrakech-Lebanese cuisine

2011-03-02T08:55:00.000-08:00

Situated in the heart of Gueliz, the Marrakech foreign quarter, Azar brasserie proposes a refined Lebanese cuisine in its purist tradition. It also combines the food with an exotic Moroccan Atmosphere. From the archtecture to the interior design, this restaurant is true to its perfection of sophisticaton. It's purely fabulous!
The restaurant offers a mezzanine where one may enjoy lunch or dinner, thus offering two atmospheres. The Azar nightclub, with live music and a DJ, is open from Thursday to Sunday.

For more info, visit their website
http://www.azarmarrakech.com/
Address: Rue de Yougoslavie
Gueliz, Marrakech
+212 524 430 920

A modernized pattern of Zellige on the wall...traditional yet trendy...

I love this collection of lamps and alumination...I'd love this in my living room too...

You can feel the neo-orientalism...it's fashionable with an oriental twist...

I love restaurants that have lots of light and dark contrast...it's so cozy, you could stay there and chill out.

A hidden Gem-A House in Morocco

2011-02-28T03:24:00.000-08:00

Hello Ladies!

It's Monday, and I am selecting one of the stylist houses from Morocco. It's fulled with surprises and funkiness, yet still holds its traditional looks. Throughout this house, you can see the Moroccan traditional pattern (Zellige) repeat itself in every room. Wonderful idea!

Enjoy the visual tour of Liza Bruce & Nicholas Vega's Moroccan Home.

Fashion designer Liza Bruce and her husband, artist Nicholas Alvis Vega, lead the life of high-style nomads. The jet-setting couple have amassed a global collection of homes—from a flat in London's Notting Hill, to a palazzo apartment in Jaipur, to a group of beach bungalows in Puglia, Italy—that they have furnished with a worldly sensibility and a near-cinematic eye for design. "We refer to our houses as film sets without the film," Bruce says. "We're driven to create the perfect hideaway."

The jewel in their crown—the home that Vega calls their "pleasure palace"—is a three-story house in Morocco complete with gardens, terraces, a swimming pool, and a hammam steam bath. Bruce, who made her name in the 1980s with an innovative line of Lycra swimwear, now sells her fashions in her London boutique. In 2003, she began traveling to Marrakech to create a collection of embroidered caftans. After several trips, she and her husband—an inseparable pair who met as teenagers in 1968— decided to establish a permanent base in Morocco.
(This article was from Elle Decor in 2010)

The Zillige patters are on the windows & doors...very subtle, yet brings tradition in this hippy house...

Lovely vivid colours...Just what we need to lighten up our day!

Wishing you a wonderful week ahead,

Gros Bisous de Marrakech,

Blue Marrakech...

2011-02-25T08:39:00.000-08:00

I was just at my desk in London, and I just miss the blue vivid colours of Marrakech already. We came back from Marrakech 2 weeks ago, and can't wait to go back to the sun...

Morocco is famous for 'blue paints' on the walls. They say you can't get this blue any where in the world. Only in Morocco...The secret is in the sun, the water, the earth, and its people :)

If you want to enjoy this colour, you'll have to visit Morocco!

Fabulous Blue...it's very vivid, yet not intimidating and quiet...

This is from the Garden of Yves Saint Laurant. Marrakech was & is a mecca to some Designers...

Blue works for a 'bohemian look'

Lovely Lilac-blue rustic designs...

I love this clean & bohemian room. It's just cozy...

My dream poolside...

Je espere un bon weekend!
Have a lovely weekend everyone...

Beautiful hidden gem- the modern ryad in Marrakech

2011-02-22T09:30:00.000-08:00

We are currently making our own 'home nest' in the suburbs of Marrakech, and we are now at a stage to think about the interior.
I recently started searching for ideas, and I came up with this idea to update my blog friends about the new, and hip beautiful ryads & hotels we have here in Marrakech.
Marrakech to me is like a design dream without any limits, or borders. Its designs are all unique and lives independent from the normal 'Trend' and 'Time'. It's free from all that. I find in Marrakech, nothing is 'out-of-date'. Everything you see, old & new has so much character, you can forget about any trend and just enjoy!

This week, it am giving you a brief visual tour of one of my favorite, hip ryad, 'P'tit Habibi'.
It's a hidden gem, which is situated in the midst of the crowded Marrakech Medina. It's simple, elegant and meditative.
Let me know how you like this ryad hotel...
I'm sure to get some ideas from here for my house in Marrakech...

I just love the islamic pattern on the wall...so simple, yet a great design

A wonderful room to relax & chill out. You can almost feel the breeze coming through the house

Very hip dining room!

A cozy little area...This is an idea you could use when you don't have space...

Using lanterns makes the bathroom look exotic, and brings wonderful character...

You are invited anytime to our house to have some tea in one of these Moroccan rooms! Just lovely living...

Hope you enjoyed my visual tour..

with Amour from Marrakech,

Romantic Moroccan Hamman & Spa...

2011-02-15T08:42:00.000-08:00

Happy belated Valentines Day! I'm still in the mood for warm romantic baths and candles a day after the real Valentines day. Afterall, it's still winter, and you might as well make it cozy and romantic at home, if you can't enjoy being out in the cold.
I love baths, but I love bath more during these cold winter days.
Moroccan's are one of the most cleanest people I have ever met as a culture. People go to the 'Hammam' (similar to the Turkish bath hamman, where you can take a bath and wash in a proper room, and not in a tub) at a regular basis.
Married to a Moroccan, I've learned the beauty of their Hamman & Spa.

Inspirational Hammam-like bath, with Moroccan Lantern

Bathing in the Hammam is not your typical rub-a-dub-dub, the process involves different steps of scrubbing and soaking, drenching and dousing.

Here’s a run down of the head-to-toe scrubdown experience:

First, choose a spot in the hot room where you’ll sit on your matt. Now, the tayeba (scrub person)will apply sabon beldi (special kind of soap) all over your body and then alternate between scrubbing and lathering you thoroughly with the kese sponge and splashing warm buckets over you. If rhassoul (natural mud) is used, it will be mixed with water and applied all over your hair. Again, it will be repeatedly rinsed out, while combing from the roots until your hair feels silky clean. This process of cleansing, scrubbing and kneading will take about 45mins.

If you've never usded a Hammam before, it sounds painful with all the exfoliating scrubbing, but believe me, it is very relaxing, plus you will appreciate when you see all the layers of your skin peeling off! It's true, your skin will be looking and feeling exactly like a new born baby...lovely!!

The beauty is that, you can actually do this ritual in your own bath. Well, the space will be limited, as you need to do all the scrubbing and washing in your tub.
Just purchase one of the Moroccan black beldi soap and a scrubber and you will be coming out with baby skin everyone would envy...give it a try! Oh and yes, I always put lots of candles around the tube for the special mood...

Here is one place to purchase moroccan soup
http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/Moroccan-Natural-Olive-Black-Soap-Hamman-/330523403394?pt=UK_HeathBeauty_BathShowCons_RL&hash=item4cf4bae482

A beautiful idea, where the tube is next to the bed...so Romantic, so Moroccan!

Create a special atmosphere with candle lights and moroccan lanterns. It's never too late for Valentines!

it's like in the arabian nights...Imagine it with petals all around!

I love these moroccan inspired tiles...gorgeous!

A very sexy sink with elegance and mystic...

Get inspired and do something special to your bathtime. All you need is candles, incense, moroccan soap, scrubbing sponge, petals and you will be on your way...

from Marrakech, ya salaam,

My New Designs...

2011-02-02T08:40:00.000-08:00

It' feel it's been a long time since I've written...I was doing some other projects regarding the house we are making in Marrakech, and between the time of raising a daughter, looking after the family, and designing my new tunics, time just has flown by.

How have you been? I hope 2011 would bring lovely events and memories to all of us.

As I was saying, I just came back from Marrakech, the romantic and exotic Ville de Rouge (Red City), and am feeling relaxed and refreshened.

I am posting some of my new collections. Let me know if you like them. Or any new ideas, I would be open for them too...

with Amour from Marrakech,

Beaufiful Iraqi Designs...

2010-11-23T08:35:00.000-08:00

It's another week, and I am looking for new inspirations...which I've found one in fashion!

I just found out about an iraqi fashion designer, who happens to blend the east & west naturally...

I love all things that are diverse and unique. That's one reason why I love moroccan designs , is that you can

combine them nicely with modern/western designs.

When east meets west, it transcends into something extraordinary...I'm really happy I am from the east myself . I love marrying the two and making something completely new.

Have a look at Hana Sadiq's collections.

Her website could be found at http://www.hanasadiq.com/

Thanks for sharing the beauty of fashion..!

Inspirational Belly dancers...

2010-11-15T08:59:00.000-08:00

Hello there,

Today, I felt like sharing with you my other passion, otherthan Moroccan/Boho fashion.
I do bellydance on the side, and have alot of passion for this art.
I discovered that I feel happy when I feel like a woman, a feminine, a goddess...
My love for Moroccan Interiors, Moroccan Fashion, Design, and dance all supports this feeling of
being a feminine and mysteious.

Unfortunately I won't be going back to Marrakech until the beginning of December, and I won't be updating
my collection. But hopefully I will be adding more beautiful trendy fashion into my collection.

My aim is to provide all the women out there with interiors, design, fashion, and inspirations that would make them and keep them feminine!
Hope my pictures of bellydancers will inspire you to dance, and to awaken that feminine side in you...(and hopefully have some moroccan interiors ie) lanterns, candels to enhance you home).

Dancing was and still is a form of seducing, and bringing out the goddess in you...hope I could share this with you. Keep being free and bohemian. Inspire to be a beautiful inspiring, exotic woman.

and how about dancing exotically in a setting like this beautiful morocan decor?

avec boucoup l'amour...et merci pour votre attention.

New Boho Winter Party Collection

2010-11-01T10:29:00.000-07:00

Oh dear! Almost one month has past since my last blog...I have been updating my collections for the party seasons and wasn't able to keep up with my blog..so sorry!
The last month I was contemplating whether I should add more boho collection to my store or not. I've decided not just to creat and to sell Moroccan items, but will be doing more bohemian fashion.
I will still keep updating all the moroccan fashion and interior design ideas to my shop, but will be expanding my horizons.

So, here are my winter party collections. I will be putting them on in etsy quite soon. Stay tuned!
There are more topics about bohemian livings in the future, so please keep visiting my blog ☆

created with Amour ...☆

Bohemian Chic Rooms

2010-10-07T08:14:00.000-07:00

What makes an interior room bohemian?
It's hard to define what "bohemian" is, as it's means anything that is free and unique, original,
but if I could bring them into key notes, they would be:
(1) using a combination of simple colours verses vivid strong accent colours
(2) having ethnic ornaments, accessories
(3) using differnt textures. For instance the combination of silk, fur and velvet is quite common...

It's basically a combination of ehnic, trend, modern, west & east, norm and unusual put all together creating
a unison. Beautiful!

There is always some craziness, romance and elegance in the boho design...it's so diverse, you'll never get

bored.

Definately lots of picture frames in the house!!

bohemian Carpet designs....

My favorite Palais Rhoule in Marrakech...a classical boho room. With beautiful water feature! With flower petals floating, this is surely for your unfogettable honeymoon...

Another Moroccan Boho classic!! I just love the craftsmanship and the vivid colours...

I love this blue coloured wall, it reminds me of Marrakech...

Avec amour,

Our new autumn tunic collection ☆

2010-10-06T08:01:00.000-07:00

Yes! Finally I have been able to post my autumn collection in our ebay shop!! I will be updating my etsy, and also I am in the proccess of creating our own web-shop for those wishing to purchase directly from us...
Here are my collections!
Let me know which one's you like...I am planning to participate in give aways and reviews. So, stay tuned!

Check out my store on the right for more gorgeous boho designs!!

With Love from Marrakech ,

Arabic Fashionista

2010-09-21T08:19:00.000-07:00

I've been into Moroccan interior designs lately and have been absent from my main stream, 'bohemian fashion'...

I love anything that I think is beautiful, whether that is fashion, decor, art, painting, architecture, food etc...it doesn't really matter, they are all satisfying to my eyes and soul.

Today, I want to introduce two arabic fashion designers I adore... Shrekahnth (dubai based designer), and Ziad Nakad (Haute Couture Lebanese designer).

Especially Ziad is known for his unique and beautiful drapery cuts in his dresses. It reminds me of the long kaftans the Morocccans wear. Both designers root in Arabic Oriental fashion design and is a new breeze to our western fashion world.

I may have said this before, but I will definately be posting my new tunic autumn collections next week (inshallah!). Visit my store, and see if there is anything you like...

One day, my aim is to create a more vintage like moroccan tunic shirts/dresses what we could wear in our everyday life. Let's try to bring the bohemian look more into our everyday life, and make everyday special.

More Ziad Nakad Fall-Winter 2010-2011 Collection below.

More Ziad Nakad Fall-Winter 2010-2011 Collection below. Somehow all these dress cuts reminds me of the arabic women fashion of Jilebas, Kaftan and Shalwal/Kameez...I would love love love to wear them one day..

Here are some designs from the colourful designer Shrekahnth.

Live bohemian, be bohemian...with love from Morocco & London

Harlem Nights...

2010-09-14T09:26:00.000-07:00

Hello Everyone!
Sorry I was away for business and was not able to update my blog for almost 2 weeks!! Time flies...
In the meantime, I had to organise a moroccan theme party for our close friend living in Spain...It was my friends wedding anniversary and they wanted to have a romantic party night where they could fall in love all over again...
I wanted to create a theme which was cosy, yet exotic, bohemian, and foreign.
So, I decided to use all our items from our store.

Here are some quick tips to organise a moroccan theme:
☆Lanterns are a must, try to find a moroccan lantern, or anything close to it.
☆Colourful cushions all around the seats (low seats, ottoman pouffes, or a low matteress)
☆rich colour textiles...
☆absolutely candel lights , esssential!
☆rose petals...In Morocco, some house always prepare fresh rose petals everyday in their houses...
☆babouche slippers (if there is a carpet) for the guests to wear
☆comfortable carpets...
☆bellydance belts, or guests willing to volunteer for a shimmy! or hire a bellydancer (s)
☆for smokers, place some sheesha (water tabacco, hoppa)
☆Have some round moroccan metal tables, and cushions around them.

You don't need all of them, but theses will help you create an unforgettable event.

P.S.: I have been away from my fashion business , but hope to be updating my fall catalog soon! Look out for my ebay shop

Shokuran wa maasalama , with love

Our new Moroccan tea glass collection!

2010-09-01T09:08:00.000-07:00

Hurray!! We are still in the proccess of updating our new Autumn collection...and it takes so long sometimes (taking photos, edit, uploading, writing discription etc..) phewww...
We recently started selling internationally with EBAY. It's actually quite nice and I might put more of our items in EBAY in the future.
Our shop is call 'La Maison Marrakech'.
Check out our store:

http://stores.ebay.co.uk/La-Maison-Marrakech

I still have plenty of Vintage clothing to upload and list...

But in the meantime, please have a glance at our new Moroccan Tea Glass Series...

If you like them, you could buy them at our new EBAY store... Lovely ♥♥♥

How about a Moroccan Lantern to spice up your home ?

2010-08-24T08:02:00.000-07:00

I love moroccan lanterns. When you go to morocco, especially Marrakech, in the night time, the houses are fulled with romantic lanterns and carpets.
It's amazing that they do this at a day to day bases...it really certainly keeps the beauty of the city, not to mention a romantic atmosphere in the house.
Most houses (or riads) we have been invited, always welcomed us and the guests with moroccan lanterns in the front door.
For more elaborate celebrations, we had parties, where they had carpets right from the entrance of the gate of the house till the entrance of the house with beautiful lanterns on both sides of the carpet...And believe me, the distance between the gate and the house could be many many yards for some luxury houses.

I am planning to bring in some Moroccan lanterns in the future for my 'Maison Marrakech' collections. Here are some I've found via the internet.
Let me know how you think, and would you like one in your home?
Let's decorate your home with some bohemian touch...

I love these white ones, it very feminine. I am planning to put these lanterns in my collection.

This miss-match gives the essense of a rustic bohemian look...

These are rustic style lanterns...it gives the room an antique flair, yet very stylish and mystic..

Let me know which one's you like...there are much more seletion in the market (souk) in Marrakech, I can't wait to go to my next shopping! I'd like to design some lanterns for my collection soon...

My new tunic fashion collection 'Fall Maison Marrakech 2010' will be coming out on the 1st September. Please check my etsy shop, or my blog for further details. Shokkuran min Kalbi

(thank you with love)☆

Live free, Live bohemian, be bohemian...

My favorite hangout-Bo Zin Marrakech

2010-08-18T09:19:00.000-07:00

I just came back from Marakech and feel nice and relaxed. I just loved the warm and sunny weather there.For me the night life is an important time to recuperate and to relax. As I have a daughter to take care in the afternoons, the night time is a great time to catch up with myself as a women, as a special being!
My favorite place to hangout is Bo Zin.
You'll be amazed how many great places you can hangout in Marrakech.
Love you Marrakech!

They serve Thai/Moroccan/European food...Thai/Japanese is so hip in Marrakech. And the food is fab too.

There are bamboos all around the bar & restaurant. The ambience is just suberb. With the dark atmosphere and candles, you feel you are in a mystic place...

Ramadan Arabian Nights Project

2010-08-12T07:54:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone & Happy Ramadan ,

Yes, Ramadan has started and it's that time of year again in Marrakech where things are really slow in the afternoons and are really really lively in the night time.

Ramada is a religous event and lasts for 1 month long. During that time, most people (and in Morocco, this is totally voluteerly) fast during the day and break their fast when the sun sets. In fact Magrib (which is the name of Morocco in Arabic) mean the far west, and also means sun set. It's called Magrib, because Morocco is the most west of the arbic countries.

The Moroccans during Ramadan, live for the night time parties, and they are quite glamourous as well as spiritual.
Here are some inspirations of an arabic theme party...

Ramadan Moubarak...Party like a Bohemian, be free like a Bohemian.

My memoriable Alhambra Palace, Spain

2010-08-10T08:25:00.000-07:00

Every year when it gets close to my birthday (which is on the 20th of this month!!), I always remember the wonderful and romantic birthday I had with my husband when we just met...
I asked him that I wanted to spend my birthday at the Alhambra palace in south of Spain...so we did ! That was a good 7 years ago...ah, time goes by, and we have a beautiful daughter together now, but those memories are still vivid and special.
Do you have a special moment in your life, and is it still vivid in your memory?

I want to share with you pics of this beautiful beautiful, absolutely stunning old arab architecture masterpiece with you. Hope you like it!

☆Alhambra Palace, Granada, Andalucia (South of Spain)

Now, just abit of its history...(so sorry my blog is abit long today).

The name derives from the Arabic ‘Al-Qalat-al-Hamra’ which means ‘The Red Fortress’, due to the red colour of the brickwork.

The first references to the Alhambra Castle started to appear in the ninth century, but it was in the thirteenth century that the fortress part of the complex, Alcazaba was built.

You have to remember that at this time, Spain was ruled by the Moors (now Moroccans) , and Andalucía was the last Muslim state in Spain, so the Sultan (or Emir) needed impressive and secure fortresses to try to hold onto his lands.

The Alhambra Castle was completed during the Nasrid Dynasty (mid fourteenth century), with the construction of the residential palaces (Palacios Nazaries).

The palaces, made up of three distinct parts, The Mexuar, The Comares Palace and The Palace of the Lions, are stunning for their Arab architecture, and exquisite attention to detail in the decoration.

Through out the palace, you can see all the beautiful arabic designs on the walls. Alhambra still feels like home to the Moroccans (The Moors). Maybe thats why I love it so much...

Arabian Magic Inspirational Kaftans...

2010-08-06T04:52:00.000-07:00

We all have this image that Kaftans are abit too out of the fashion. Well think again, there are so many new styles Kaftan (and Ethinic costumes) out there that you could definately wear for that special occassion and would not only look drop dead GORGEOUS, but also would stand before the crowd...
There are collections from various Moroccan to Middle Eastern Designer kaftans.
Enjoy, and let me know if you like them, and think could wear for that special wedding, anniversary, party...

Be Bohemian, live free...

Bohemian Style Fall Collection with a Moroccan twist

2010-08-06T04:35:00.000-07:00

It's almost end of summer, and although it's very sad to know that the hot/warm season is coming to an end, I can't but look forward to thinking about the fall fashion for 2010...
And as usual, my inspiration is always Moroccan/ Boho style, so I've come up with some collection of mine ☆

The colours the fabric for "Etro"(left) are definately tribal and the big belt reminds me of the belts they wear for Kaftans in Morocco. The big jewely on the clothing (far right) is also inspired by an ethnic design...

Look!! My bags (Maison Marrakech) is just perfect for these outfits...Lovely to know that these bags are not only beautiful, but are also practical and can fit so many things inside (they are L size). It's not just for summer season, but you can well carry them on an autumn day, and look GORGEOUS!!

As you can see, it doesn't matter which season you are in, it's always good to have a combination of Black/Gold, or Black/Silver, and you will look trendy no matter what...The glitter just adds elegance and richness in your fashion.

I think I'm always inspired to see ethinc designs in the motif of the clothes, it brings more richness, uniqueness, freedom and elegance to you.

Let's always try to be yourself, a unique being, different from others...go bohemian ....♥

My fall collection will be coming mid/end of August..

target="_blank">

What is Boho Fashion?

2010-08-02T08:54:00.000-07:00

Labas Aleiki (Hello in Moroccan Arabic),
For those who aren't familiar with all the terminology, here are some of the information about Boho Fashion, and how it all started. Morocco was also an inspiration to all the ethnic fashion back then, and still is!

Hippies Created Bohemian Fashion

The Hippie Clothing originated in US by mid-60′s, the clothing style was popularized by the radical youth during that period. The Hippies are known to be rebellious in a subtle way, creating their own communities and groups, as well as other radical habits and practices.

Hippie, Indie, Boho, Vintage, etc…

It is hippie clothing style who has become and reincarnated as Indie Clothing (Independent Clothing) in the 80′s because the style refuse to follow trends, but their comfortable styling, ethnic taste, and accessories. It has later become the Bohemian Clothing upto the present.

Now Hippie Clothing is widely recognized in fashion industry as the Bohemian Fashion or Boho Fashion. More and more people are fascinated by the ethnic look of the hippie clothing style that is now popular because of the tribal trend this year.

Hippies ! We love nature...

Also, hippie groups are always into nature. My prediction is that the hippie clothing style or hippie fashion will become more and more famous. The campaign for environmental action to help Mother Nature will push it to its fame. They are known to use eco-friendly items to create their style and fashion.

Their use of natural fabrics and materials, as well as recycling vintage clothing. Vintage clothing as we all know is well patronized for their elegance and simplicity. It has truly become Indie Clothing revolving through time. It is the fashion of the past to future.

Bohemian or Boho style unites in itself vintage, gypsy, hippy and everyday styles.
Bold, creative personalities usually choose this style.
Boho style naturally brings out the uniqueness in you...

Live Bohemian, be free in spirit, be bohemian...

If you like, visit my etsy shop for more Bohemian fashion...
More new collections are coming up mid-August.

...♥ ...♥ ...♥ ...♥ ...♥ ...♥ ...♥ ...♥ ...♥ ...♥ ...♥ ...♥ ...♥ ...♥ ...♥ ...♥ ...♥ ...♥ ...♥ ...♥ ...♥ ...♥ ...♥

Additonal info:

Bohemian style clothing features:

• Short-tunic dresses, floor reaching dresses, kimono-sleeves, cardigans, bolero, short jackets, poncho, pelerines;

• Light, fluttering textiles;

• Flowers and psychedelic patterns, ethnic motifs (mottled clothes combined with single-colored);

• Color palette: grayish beige, lavender, greenish neutral, ivory, pale pink, gray tones;

• Layered clothing;

• Combination of loose and tight-fitting clothing.

• Sandals (with metal clasps, decorated with beads and leather straps), vintage shoes and semi-long boots.

• Hair bands, colorful necklaces, big bracelets, belts with massive buckles, scarves;

• Tip: clothing should not be too mottled and too complex, so that it would not turn off attention from the face.

One Thousand & One Night - Deeply Sensual Dining in Marrakech

2010-07-27T06:44:00.000-07:00

The reason I think I am in love with Marrakech, is not only the mysterious location and it's 'east meets west' atmosphere, but also it's because of the romantic night outs...

Here, you really feel like a princess.Just wear one of the traditional Kaftan's and head to the 2 restaurants I will be introducing you to.
I will be featuring Dar Yacout today, and Le Comptoir tomorrow.

Here are some of the Kaftans you could wear to your special night out!

Dar Yacout

Dar Yacout is not a restaurant but a legend..an experience you have to live if you are visiting Marrakech.

Your journey begins through a dark narrow street in Medina to a giant nondescript door off an alley, which opens by Ibrahim…When you enter that door the world around you totally changes. Once inside, you are guided to the rooftop terrace with a great view of Medina, (or in a fireplace-warmed lounge when the weather’s chilly) to have your aperitifs..

The building has renovated 20 years ago by American architect Bill Willis who turned a cluster of mansions into a labyrinth of secret salons and patios, most sporting carved cedar ceilings, mosaic floors and fountains, exotic columns, and countless lanterns. Even the bathrooms have sculpted fireplaces. Guests are seated on two levels around a courtyard with a beautiful pool and entertained by Ghana musicians playing a trance-inducing Moroccan form of blues. The food just keeps on coming, course after course after course: pickled and spiced vegetable salads, lemon and almond chicken tajine, tender shoulder of lamb, vegetable couscous, and ultimately pastries, tiered trays of cookies, and mint tea. All of this and with a traditional moroccan musicians playing live in the back ground.
This place is all about the architectural, and has a definate 1001 Arabian Nights atmosphere..Ideal place to go whilst you are on a honeymoon, or romantic nightout.

Dar Yacout is only a mile stone away from this exotic street market of Medina...

You climb up these rather dark, mysterious narrow stairs to get to the impressive ravishing rooms.

Everywhere in this riad, there were petals and fountains. They keep electricity to the minimum for the atmosphere,it's mostly candels...You can imagine the music, the lavishing clothes, beautiful men and women all being entertained and enjoying their deep sensual evening...

Jennifer Jeffrey commented on the architecture of Marrakesh, writing that the “Moroccan architecture echoes the nature of its people; Moroccans reveal themselves slowly, unwilling to divulge their secrets at once.”

....I agree, you need to slowly soak into the atmophere to feel the beauty..it's all hidden, but it's deep and sensual, like velvet...

If you are interested in Dar Yacout, whilst you are staying in Marrakech :
79 rue Sidi Ahmed Soussi, Arset Ihiri
Phone: +212-524-380-29-29

Best wishes from Marrakech,

Happy Friday Blog Hops !

2010-07-23T04:06:00.000-07:00

Happy friday everyone!
Let's start the day with some networking ☆

Sex in the City 2 Morocco Scenes...

2010-07-22T08:46:00.000-07:00

IHave you seen the SITC 2 film yet?

The exotic locations you see in the film Sex and the City 2 were all shot in Morocco. The story finds the four friends, Carrie (Sarah Jessica-Parker), Samantha (Kim Cattrall), Charlotte (Kristin Davis) and Miranda (Cynthia Nixon) on an all expenses paid vacation in Abu Dhabi. None of the Emirate countries gave the film crew permission to shoot, but Morocco was happy to accommodate, and they spent 8 weeks filming there in the fall of 2009. Personally, I think it would have made sense to change the location in the script to Morocco, but who am I to question the inner workings of Hollywood.

The amazing desert scenes you see in the movie, were all filmed in Erg Chebbi, an area of enormous sand dunes close to the town of Merzouga, in the Western Sahara. It takes about a day to get to the Sahara with a 4x4, but it's all worth the trip!
If you request, you could actually set up a bedouin tent here, and could spend the night underneath the Sahara stars and have a romantic evening. Ideal for an exotic honeymoon! Ofcouse, there are lots of travel agencies, who will take you there, and set up all the tents for you, so you wouldn't have to worry about anything...

Here are the other pictures froms the movie scenes.

I hope these photos of Marrakech inspires you the bohemian look!
Let me know if you are interested in knowing more about the hotels and restaurants in Marrakech!

Love from Marrakech,

Reina Cherquaoui signature

My new wiget !!

2010-07-21T08:10:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to show you my first 'Maison Marrakech' widget!
Hope you like it. Let me know if you like the design ...

Welcome Wednesday 21/7

2010-07-21T07:18:00.000-07:00

Welcome Wednesday 7/21

Welcome to the "Welcome Wednesday" blog hop, hosted by Take It From Me! Welcome Wednesday is a great way to meet new people and learn new things as well as increase your blog followers! So let's have some fun!!

If you want to be a part of Welcome Wednesday, just follow these 5 simple steps:

1. Follow the Welcome Wednesday Host (Take It From Me) as well as the 2 Spotlighted Blogs of the Week. (These will make up the top three slots on the Linky)

2. Link up your blog name and URL with our Linky. (You only need to add your info once for it to be seen on all the blog hops)

3. Grab our Welcome Wednesday button and include it in a post about the event on your blog.

4. Go to as many blogs on the MckLinky as you want and Follow them. Be sure to tell them you are from Welcome Wednesday!

5. Be sure to Follow back any followers you have gained from our Welcome Wednesday event!

Let's start the Follow Me Back Tuesday (from next week..)

2010-07-21T03:38:00.000-07:00

I've just discovered a nice way of following and connecting your blog to other blogs.
It's called the Follow Me Back Tuesday. Unfortunately I've missed this week's one, but for future reference, I'll post this today.
Let's all start from next Tuesday and get more contacts to other blogs!
Here it is....

Follow Me Back Tuesday- 7/20
Follow Me Back Tuesday is another day of the week that you can gain more followers and find other great blogs to follow on a weekly basis. Follow Me Back Tuesday is hosted by Survey Junkie, Little Yaya's, Review Retreat and Boobies, Babies & A Blog.

Each week we will choose a random number every week from the blogs linked and add the random blog to the #5 spot to link to the following week ...

This weeks guest host for the #5 spot is Sanity is Overrated.

How it Works

1.Follow the 5 hosts, #1 – 5, ( leave us a comment & we will follow you back- only leave a comment if you follow please ).

2.Create a blog post about FMBT (you may copy this post if you wish).

3.Follow as many blogs as you would like ( Leave a comment so they can follow you back).

4.When you receive a comment from a new follower return the favor & follow them back.

***Please link directly to your Follow Me Back Tuesday Post. Links that lead directly to your personal blog hop will not be accepted and will be deleted.***

The code will be available every Tuesday at 12:00 a.m (EST) on all 4 hostesses blogs

The mysterious Medina, Marrakech- Jama Efna

2010-07-19T08:37:00.000-07:00

We were back in Marrakech last week for a short return.

While I'm in Marrakech, I always keep it a habit to visit the Medina.

This is where I get all my inspirations.
It's such a mysterious place, where the new meets the old, and blends in perfectly.
The medina has it's own world, not like anywhere else in the world...I just love being there!!

Image by Alexbip via Flickr

This is Jma Efna, the above picture, I've taken it myself. Jma Efna is at the entrance of the medina. There are hundreds of people there all day long, either entertaining, selling food, or have outdoor restaurant booths.
I love the orange juice shop. For 10p, you can have freshly squeezed orange juice. Absolutely refreshing!
The sellers are normally really friendly and they seem to know some words in almost all languages.
They certainly surprised me, when they spoke some words in Japanese, like 'It's fresh (shinsen desu),
or "it's cheap (yasui desuyo)".

Medina is like a maze, a labyrinth, where the streets are narrow and curved and could get lost any time...in fact I always need to go with my partner, who's much better with directions !

The medina means the 'old town', and therefore it is as big as a town. Within the medina, there are various sections. Ladies clothings, accessories, furniture, babouches, leather bags, medicine, textiles, fresh fruits, spice shops, beads shops, you name it, they've got every store you could think of, and more!!
So, when you need something specific, you need to know where you are going, otherwise, you could spend a day, and never get there...

I wanted to go to the fringe/tassel shop. So we ended up here (as above photo). They have so many selections, it's amazing. For a designer, this is heaven!!

All products made in medina are all hand made, the secret is given from the master to his pupils. I love the way they keep the tradition...and what a beautiful tradition, and what beautiful arts pieces they create..

We were quite thirsty and exhausted shopping in the heat of 38 degrees, and decided to have a rest at this very very touristic restaurant

Cafes in Jma Efna are fulled with tourist people!! It's lovely to rest and chat with your friends in the shade on a hot day like this. For people who would prefer not walking in the hot weather, we also have "couches" to ride on...Hope you can visit one day the mystical red city, Marrakech too. If you have, I'd love to share stories with you.

The lovely couche!! C'est tres comfortable...

Stylish Moroccan Tea

2010-07-09T07:00:00.000-07:00

Morrocan mint tea isn't just an ordinary tea.

It's a sign of hosipitality, friendship and tradition.

As this tea is very popular, it's served after every meal and at every occassion.

They take a lot of pride in making the best tea, they will even talk among them selves

who makes the best mint tea. And for some Moroccan ladies, this is something they could

boost about!

I would like to share with you an easy Moroccan Mint Tea, which was taught to me by a
Moroccan friend.

Moroccan Tea

Ingredients

10 spings of Fresh Mint (plus extra for garnish)

3 tablespoons of green tea

3 tablespoons sugar

4 cups water

(1) Boil the water and pour a small amount in the teapot (Moroccan tea pots are very pretty and are nice to have! Check some of the photos from below.)

(2) Add the mint, green tea and sugan together in the teapot, then fill it with the rest of the hot water

(3) Let the tea brew for 3 minutes

(4) Set out glasses for the tea. (again, see below the lovely little tea glasses they have...in the future, I would like to design some too..)

(5) Fill only one glass with th tea and pour it back in the pot

(6) Repeat (5) again. This helps to dissove and to mix the sugar

(7) Pour the tea
(pouring the tea is also unique in Morocco. You pour them at a high distance into your glass, and you fill in only half of the cup. Never serve a full glass, as they don't think it's esthetically beautiful. Moroccans pour in the tea from a great distance to create a foam on the surface of the tea.

(8) Finally, garnish with the remaining leaves of mint.

Enjoy!!!

Moroccan tea glasses could be not only used as drinking tea, but it very much could be a part of your interior...use your imagination, and it could be used as a candle holder, flower vase etc...the ideas are yours!

2010-07-06T09:09:00.000-07:00

I have found these babouche stories in the web, and wanted to share this with you .

I've made some changes and have made it my own style.

It’s location is in Mafraoute, the capital of slippers…

Story of two slippers

These were two small slippers. Slippers for two pretty little feet....
Slippers, but slippers of Tafraoute the capital of slippers.
In Tafraoute, a small town in the south of Morocco, in the rocky Mountains, where the trees of almond bloom their white flowers like snow,
in the middle of a city that goes red during sunset, There lived a babouche maker named Ahmed.

Ahmed has always lived in Tafraoute, his father, his grandfather now, and perhaps even his great-grandfather and his great-great grandfather also....
His father manufactured slippers, his grandfather manufactured slippers, his great-grandfather produced slippers and even his great-great grandfather.....
His son Mohamed, also manufactured slippers, together with his son Ahmed created the most beautiful babouches in Tafraoute.

The city’s name “Tafraoute” means in Arabic, “never get hungry”, as with the most beautiful babouches they have sold, and were famous of, they never became hungry.
Ahmed had made a pair of the most beautiful golden pair of babouches with diamonds sewed on
Ahmed has put his soul and heart in creating this precious golden bacouches. And so he has put long hours in the creation of his masterpiece slippers.
What he did not know, Ahmed, is that these two were no ordinary slippers!
These slippers had feelings and were able to talk.

-Promise me, said the right slipper, never to leave me.

-How would I ever leave you, we are a pair bound to be together. Alone we are no use. Replied the left slipper.

-Of course, but promise to always follow me! Asked the little right slippers, who was in tears, as she did not want to be left behind.

-Always follow you? That, I cannot , as we are to move back and forth of each other whilst walking.
-Then, I shall want to have a dancer, dance in our slippers, so that we will be side to side together and you shall never be ahead of me.

-Yes, replied the left slipper. That would not be convenient for walking on the rocky mountains of Tafraoute.

-But, I don’t want to be an ordinary slipper. I am the slipper from Tafraoute! Besides, walking on the rocky roads will ruin us.

-Ah, agreed the left slipper. What shall we do then?

I would need to continue this another day...

New Bag collection

2010-06-22T07:44:00.000-07:00

Here are some of the bags from our new collection.

My inspiration was Royal Mansour Hotel in Marrakech. I've tried matching the bag items with the interior desgin of the hotel.

That's where the movie location was for Sex in The City 2.

The Mansour hotel only opened this year. This hotel is all abouttradition and luxury.

When you want exotic luxury, tradition, style, hip, excitement,

come to Marrakech, or just wear our item and get the feeling of Marrakech...

The marchbag above fits nicely to these interior decors!

Kaftan New Collection from Maison Marrakech!

2010-06-16T07:41:00.000-07:00

I am in the proccess of finalising our new collection 2010. For the one's who is not familiar with our shop 'Maison Marrakech', it is a shop which specialises in Handmade moroccan interior design, clothings & accesories. Most of the selling items are designed by myself.
My inspirations are all from my favorite city, Marrakech.

Here are some of the samples of my new collection 'Kaftan Series'.

This is a sample, and the actual sale only starts after mid-July 2010.

If you are interested in any of my products, please visit:

www.etsy.com/shop/maisonmarrakech

Exotic Doors

2010-06-07T08:39:00.000-07:00

It's a monday, and I am feeling abit impatient...

My 'Maison Marrakech' e-shop will be opening soon, but I still have bits and pieces

where I just can't start the business yet...Sometimes it's just hard to wait and to prepare yourself before the launch.

I guess it is like that with anything...Roma was not built in a day...

Once my shop opens in July, I will be looking forward to advertising myself more..until then,

I will be the little bird waiting for that sunrise in patience.

Whilst waiting, I was just thinking of the wonderful Moroccan Doors.

They are so simple, yet exotic and rich, I can't stop being mesmerized by them.

This is a typical Moroccan design, which you find in walls, doors, furniture patterns.

more lovely doors...

Who would think that behind theses closed doors, are the modern interiors of Morocco?

...and an inner courtyard is essential in these Moroccan Homes...

Friday Couscous

2010-06-04T07:39:00.000-07:00

Every Friday is prayer's day and couscous day in Morocco. After the friday long praying, all the families get together to eat their homemade CousCous and Vegetable (w/Meat) Tagine.

The ladies in Marrakech in most households would be cooking in the morning to serve at lunchtime.

CousCous is so tasty, yet very digestable and light.

My partner and I go to my friend's house for a real homemade lovely couscous dish. It's made by his mother who is now turning over 80years old, and who really knows how to cook the traditional way.

Moroccan Friday Couscous dish is a social event, and is eaten normally in a very large dish and is shared.

What is unique about the way they eat are:

(1) use your right hand

(2) be careful just to eat what is in front of you.

Moroccans have very delicate hands and are able to eat without forks or knives, elegantly. They just use their right hand to form a ball of couscous, whilst adding the meat and vegetable chunks too.

I always enjoy watching my partner eat with his hands. It's fascinating for a girl like me, who came from a country using chopsticks!

And because all the guests sitting at the table would share from the same dish, you will need to eat and dig with your hand, what is in front of you. There is a territory of where you can eat, and if you cross the borderline...you will be in trouble

Here is a nice CousCous with Beef & Vegetable receipe, I've found. As my partner and friends love couscouse, I'd like to make the effort to cook a nice friday couscous, for the next occassion..

Couscous with Beef & Vegetables
Serves 4-6
Cooking Time: 30 minutes preparation total, about 2 hours

Ingredients:

•1 pound of beef
•2 onions
•3 tomatoes
•A variety of vegetables such as potatoes, carrots, pumpkin, turnip, zucchini
•1 green chili pepper, optional
•1 bunch parsley
•1 dash saffron or yellow colorant
•Salt & pepper
•1 pound non-instant couscous
Clean and cut beef into bite-sized pieces. Slice onion in thin strips and roughly chop tomato. Saute onion, beef, saffron/yellow colorant, salt and pepper for about 15 minutes. Cover half way with water and bring to a boil. Once boiling, add more water to cover everything and let boil for half an hour.

Clean and cut vegetables in large chunks. Add vegetables to pot and cover with water as needed.

Put couscous in a shallow plate or the bottom of a large tagine. Add 1 cup of water and pick up handfuls of the couscous and rub between the palms of your hands to incorporate water. Do this until all the grains are moistened by the water. Using the steamer part of the pot, put the couscous in the steamer and sift through the holes back into the dish breaking up any chunks of couscous left over. Add the couscous to the steamer and place over the pot.

Clean a small bunch of parsley and tie with cooking string. Add to pot with whole uncut chili pepper (if using). You can do this just before you add the steamer full of couscous to the pot.

Let the pot continue to boil for about 20 minutes allowing the steam to rise through the couscous. Remove the steamer pot and transfer the couscous to the shallow dish you used to roll it the first time. You can allow it to cool for a few minutes since you’ll be handling it with your hands again. Roll the couscous adding an additional 1/2 cup of water. Add back to steamer and place on top of pot for another 20 minutes. Repeat this step one more time which will be the third steaming. When handling the couscous during the preparation, try to use a light hand so that the couscous does not get compacted during any of the steps.

To serve, place the couscous on the plate and add a little of the juice from the stew over it. Arrange the meat in the middle of the plate on top of the couscous and arrange the vegetables on top and around the meat. Pour more of the juices from the pot over the dish.

My favorite place to hang out on a friday night, after a nice couscous...Le Comptoire

Maison Marrakech Celebration

2010-06-03T08:13:00.000-07:00

Mesdames et Messieurs,
This will be my first ever blog...
Alot of events are happening in my life. The first being that I am in my final stage to open up my web-boutique 'Maison Marrakech', which will be opening in July 2010.
I would love to share my passion about Morocco, and its culture/art/lifestyle etc with all of you.
I will be updating new items from my designs or from the medina...

Today, my inspiration goes to the La Mamounia Hotel, Marrakech

La Mamounia is situated not far from the centre medina, Djamma el Fna. It's gone through a long 3 year renovation, but was originally built in 1923. There were so many artists/celebraties who were mesmerized by its charm. Winston Churchill loved this place. In fact he lived here..

Moroccan designs are so romantic, it's suitable for a honeymoon setting, just an exotic evening. The lanterns makes the atmosphere almost unreal of this world. I would love to live here...

Such an elegant indoor pool. Tiles are all moroccan traditional designs...

Wonderful details, so elegant and yet exotic...

...Not to mention their care and service is top class. Have you ever seen the moroccan tea served? They are really entertaining.