Maison MK, Marrakech launches this month

MaisonMK, MarraKech, is an exciting new addition to the cultural and creative scene of Marrakech, one of the world’s most vibrant cities. Opening from February 2008, the hotel is the creation of professional fashion and portrait photographers Paul and Aoibheann Hopkins.

Their artistic vision has been implemented with their team of leading international interior designers and lighting consultants, and has led to the creation of a sophisticated space that surprises and delights. Maison MK represents a glimpse of the Marrakech of tomorrow with cutting edge design concepts within a historic Moroccan framework.

Maison MK is situated in the affluent heart of Marrakech, only two minutes walk from the vibrant central square with its fire eaters, jugglers, snake charmers, and ancient story tellers. The whole house is curved, organic and tactile with the walls curving into floors and ceilings. Even the round pool seamlessly merges into circular banquette seating areas. The result of the clean lines and light aesthetics is an ethereal interior that creates a serene and soothing haven in a bustling city.

The historical Riad features just six extravagant suites. Flowing silk organza voiles drape from the windows and doors and rose petals scattered on the beds create a de-stressing and decadent ambience. The handmade mattresses sit on a polished plaster plinth that is lit from below and behind by long rope lights giving the impression that the bed is literally floating on air.

Dramatic silk chiffon artwork of sultry and exotic Moroccan faces forms the graphic design element of the huge polished plaster headboards. All but one of the bedrooms have deep cast iron roll top baths, encased in a rounded pod to cocoon guests into complete relaxation.

The contemporary design of Maison MK is complemented by modern and “fun-ctional” fixtures. Each room houses a pre-loaded iPod with chilled ambient music and videos showing MK’s must visit restaurant and club recommendations. There is a pre programmed mobile phone, curved of course, containing all the essential numbers from where to eat to what to buy. For those who like their gadgets a little bigger, the state-of-the-art screening room with its 8 foot screen, DVD, satellite TV, surround sound and Xbox360 will ensure the ultimate in viewing and gaming potential!

Food lovers are well catered for at Maison MK with the highly experienced European chef creating a French / Moroccan fusion of signature dishes. Breakfast is a relaxed affair with a mixture of freshly baked pastries, Moroccan pancakes and fresh fruit served whenever, wherever.

At lunchtime guests can choose from a light salad or a full meal or may prefer to wait for our complimentary afternoon tea; a delicious home baked cake served with fresh Moroccan mint tea on the cool shaded patio. For dinner the chef prepares a sumptuous seven course meal for guests using produce freshly sourced that morning from the high quality local markets.

Meals can be taken either on the rooftop patio, in private dining rooms, or under the stars. Alternatively, the more restless can take a picnic into the countryside with a private butler, umbrellas, chairs, and mouth-watering picnic hamper in tow for a romantic lunchtime affair. Maison MK also offers its guests complimentary food treats throughout the day ensuring no one will ever go hungry. These include homemade sorbets, lemonade, and bbq skewers at sunset.

Guests can energize themselves at the MK gym or self-indulge at the spa. The two spa treatment rooms offer a range of Western and authentic Moroccan treatments including the MK signature candlelit massage.

The huge Maison MK roof is divided into two levels. The lower deck is used for sunbathing during the day, and in the evening is transformed into a sexy lounge area with spectacular 14 foot fire and fountain. Alternatively guests may choose to unwind in the Arabic tented area that provides the perfect backdrop to the sounds of the bustling Medina.

The upper level has banquette style seating for dinner, a BBQ grill, and a curved cocktail bar. There is also a stylish copper fire pit where a glowing log fire is lit every evening and guests are provided with blankets to snuggle up by the glowing fire. Over the top of the patio, huge curved swathes of orange silk flutter overhead lit by pools of soft light.

Maison MK is a perfect hideaway for couples wanting a romantic break in this enchanting city. Alternatively it can be hired out as a whole; ideal for celebrations and groups of friends. Rooms start at €300 based on two sharing or €1500 for the Riad as a whole. A number of airlines fly to Marrakech including Easy Jet, Ryan Air, and British Airways.

For more information, visit Maisonmk.com.