"Villa by sumptuous villa, the old-established foreign community in Marrakesh is selling its legendary houses" - Celia Brayfield, Times Online.
Back in the 1950s and 60s the adventurous moved in to Marrakesh and started renovating the old riads in the Medina. The trend gathered momentum and by the end of the last century a sizeable expat community was ensconced in variations of their Scheherazade fantasy. Wonderfully creative designers blended the cultural influences of their home countries with that of the Maghreb and some of the results were ( and are ) stunning. Some where not. But now a new wave of "A" list celebs are moving in, pushing prices up and once again changing the style and design of their new holiday homes. For those lucky enough to score an invite, expect Balinese artifacts, Tibetan Thankas, and Italian terracotta...
According to the interesting article by Ms Brayfield... The trend began a few years ago, when Sir Richard Branson bought a castle near Asni, in the Atlas foothills, complete with a warehouse of treasures from Africa and the East, from the Italian-born antique dealer Luciano Tempo. He made it into an hotel, the Kasbah Tamadot, that perches on a red crag above an infinity pool offering glorious views over the mountains. Now more and more sumptuous piles in prime locations are changing hands, including Bled Targui, owned by Princess Henrietta von Auersperg, and Le Verger de l’Etoile Filante (Orchard of the Shooting Star), which belongs to Frederick Vreeland, the former United States Ambassador and son of Diana Vreeland, the famed fashion-setter and Editor of Vogue.
The interest in Morocco that gripped home and property investors a few years ago shows no sign of easing any time soon. In fact with new TV programs such as those made with celebrity chef, Rick Stein and the remake of Brideshead Revisited which will feature some Moroccan locations, the interest could continue to grow. If this is so, then the prices in Marrakesh and surrounds will climb even further - and Fez will experience a more gentle upward pressure.
Read Celia Brayfield's article here: Times Online.
Tags: Moroccan Morocco Fes, Maghreb news
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