La Mamounia
Marrakesh, Morocco ( 2009 )
An icon of Marrakech since the 1920s, La Mamounia is widely regarded as one of the world’s most legendary hotels, a timeless palace that has welcomed royalty, artists, writers, and statesmen, including Winston Churchill, for whom it was a favourite retreat. During the hotel’s first complete renovation under the direction of Jacques Garcia, Yahya was invited to contribute a series of bespoke interventions, including architectural metalwork, custom lighting, and the complete reimagining of the spa, integrating handcrafted elements directly into the fabric of this historic landmark.
Often referred to as the grand old dame of Marrakech, La Mamounia occupies a singular place in the cultural and architectural history of the city. Set within its legendary gardens, the palace has long embodied a refined vision of Moroccan hospitality, attracting figures such as Winston Churchill, who famously painted within its walls. When the hotel embarked on its first comprehensive renovation, led by Jacques Garcia, the ambition was to preserve this heritage while introducing a renewed sense of depth, intimacy, and contemporary sophistication.
Within this framework, Yahya was commissioned to develop a range of bespoke works integrated directly into the architecture and circulation spaces of the hotel. His interventions extended throughout the property, most notably through hand-sawn, backlit bronze floral panels positioned outside each guest room, functioning as tactile entry mechanisms rather than conventional switches. Additional works included custom lighting for corridors and shared spaces, conceived to shape atmosphere through shadow, texture, and rhythm. Each element was designed and handcrafted in his atelier, conceived as an architectural presence rather than applied ornamentation.
The most significant intervention was the complete transformation of the spa. Working in close collaboration with Jacques Garcia, Yahya was given the freedom to interpret the design direction through light, material, and form. Handcrafted chandeliers, wall shades, sculptural elements, and bespoke decorative pieces were created to establish a calm, immersive environment where craftsmanship and restraint define the experience. Today, these works form an integral part of La Mamounia’s identity, contributing quietly yet decisively to the evolution of one of the world’s most storied hotels.
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Photography Credit: Warren Wesley Patterson - Marie Rodier
La Mamounia
Marrakesh, Morocco ( 2009 )
An icon of Marrakech since the 1920s, La Mamounia is widely regarded as one of the world’s most legendary hotels, a timeless palace that has welcomed royalty, artists, writers, and statesmen, including Winston Churchill, for whom it was a favourite retreat. During the hotel’s first complete renovation under the direction of Jacques Garcia, Yahya was invited to contribute a series of bespoke interventions, including architectural metalwork, custom lighting, and the complete reimagining of the spa, integrating handcrafted elements directly into the fabric of this historic landmark.
Often referred to as the grand old dame of Marrakech, La Mamounia occupies a singular place in the cultural and architectural history of the city. Set within its legendary gardens, the palace has long embodied a refined vision of Moroccan hospitality, attracting figures such as Winston Churchill, who famously painted within its walls. When the hotel embarked on its first comprehensive renovation, led by Jacques Garcia, the ambition was to preserve this heritage while introducing a renewed sense of depth, intimacy, and contemporary sophistication.
Within this framework, Yahya was commissioned to develop a range of bespoke works integrated directly into the architecture and circulation spaces of the hotel. His interventions extended throughout the property, most notably through hand-sawn, backlit bronze floral panels positioned outside each guest room, functioning as tactile entry mechanisms rather than conventional switches. Additional works included custom lighting for corridors and shared spaces, conceived to shape atmosphere through shadow, texture, and rhythm. Each element was designed and handcrafted in his atelier, conceived as an architectural presence rather than applied ornamentation.
The most significant intervention was the complete transformation of the spa. Working in close collaboration with Jacques Garcia, Yahya was given the freedom to interpret the design direction through light, material, and form. Handcrafted chandeliers, wall shades, sculptural elements, and bespoke decorative pieces were created to establish a calm, immersive environment where craftsmanship and restraint define the experience. Today, these works form an integral part of La Mamounia’s identity, contributing quietly yet decisively to the evolution of one of the world’s most storied hotels.