Marrakech: An overview - Part 17

Ancient and Modern Architecture and styles

Moroccan Architecture has tended to be traditional for a long time but now some of the older ideas are being transferred and updated for use in new roles in building and architecture. In this section I am taking a look at some of the styles you will see throughout the city and also where traditional techniques are being used in a new way.

Horseshoe arches can been seen all over Marrakech, they are correctly known as outrepassé arches. This is where the arch curves back inwards after its widest point, to give an effect like a horseshoe or keyhole. Its use is most commonly seen in Moorish Spain and North Africa.

Tiling is one of the most arresting features of Moroccan architecture with its use of multi-coloured small tiles laid in complex geometric patterns. This is known as the zellij technique, where tiles are created as large squares and then hand cut into smaller shapes. Conventional shapes and sizes are typically used, though there are as many as 360 different types of pieces. The traditional art of laying zellij has evolved in exciting new ways in the last two decades. Contemporary designers now use new colours and striking colour combinations. It used to be limited to wainscoting but zellij is now being applied to a greater variety of projects.

Tadalekt plaster was a technique that was initially associated only with bathhouses and was used to counteract the heat and moisture. The walls are treated with a plaster of powdered limestone, which, once set, is polished with flat stones, then painted with a glaze of egg whites and polished again with the local black soap, made from olives. The finished surface looks similar to a soft leather. As I have said for centuries this has traditionally reserved it water resistant qualities was for bathhouses. However interior designers have now begun applying it to many areas of modern buildings. They have also broaden the range of colours and it is now common to see tadelakt in pink, green or even black.

Stucco plaster has long been a decorative element of Moroccan architecture. The carved plaster can cover entire walls in fantastic curvilinear and geometric design. The work is performed by craftsmen while the plaster is still damp and the patterns are sketched onto the surface, then gouged out with hammer and chisel. Now with updated traditional techniques, the interiors of new buildings have made creative use of carved plaster, An example would be the floor to ceiling stucco of the dining room at Riad Farnatchi, which resembles a flock wallpaper.

Continued in part 18