Marisa Berenson's Unique Riad in Marrakech
In the vibrant city of Marrakech, renowned actress and former model Marisa Berenson has crafted a stunning riad that is a true reflection of her eclectic style and artistic vision. With a notable career that includes iconic roles in films such as _Death in Venice_, _Cabaret_, and _Barry Lyndon_, Berenson has mingled with the luminaries of fashion and cinema. However, her Moroccan residence stands as a retreat far removed from the glitz and glamour of the fashion world. In a revealing interview with _ELLE Decor_ in 2020, she expressed her deep connection to the space, stating, “This place is my haven of peace. I am far from the world here, and I want it to remain that way. So I don’t know why I did those photos for ELLE Decor!”
A Journey Through Time and Design
Berenson's enchanting relationship with Marrakech dates back to the 1970s when she frequently spent time with the legendary designer Yves Saint Laurent. Fast forward decades later, her love for the city remains unwavering, as she embarks on various projects, including the creation of a spa for a Sofitel hotel, and eventually discovers a riad for sale. Despite its dilapidated state during her first visit, which she described as reminiscent of a haunted house, Berenson felt an undeniable energy emanating from the structure. “But it had a particular energy. And I knew it was a place I wanted to transform,” she recalls.
Refusing to delegate the project to a decorator, Berenson, who trained at the Inchbald School of Design in London at the age of 16 and initially considered a career in architecture, took matters into her own hands. Collaborating with a local architect, she skillfully reorganized the riad, harmoniously fusing Venetian and Andalusian influences. The patio features a stunning fountain adorned with blue and white azulejos from Seville, kilim rugs, and vintage seating reupholstered in Pierre Frey fabrics. A retractable glass roof ensures the space remains cozy during the winter months.
Inside the riad, the living room tells a story of its own, where vibrant yellow and red Venetian sofas mingle with leopard-print chairs and a beautifully sculpted plaster fireplace. Spanish references continue with tiles salvaged from an old palace in Seville and an angel fresco inspired by a church. The dining area showcases unique finds from the Paris flea markets, including orange and gold taffeta curtains and a black lacquer Chinese screen originating from her New York apartment. Each object within the space carries its own narrative, yet the overall atmosphere feels fluid and dynamic.
In the library, two Napoleon III chairs rescued from the Château de Ferrières near Paris take center stage. “They were destined for the dump, and I said: 'No, no, no, I’m keeping them!'” Berenson reminisces, embracing their wear as a testament to their authenticity. “They all bask in their own authenticity, slightly patinated by time. But they have a soul.” In her bedroom, a bed dressed in Pierre Frey fabric is complemented by Syrian nightstands inlaid with mother-of-pearl.
The exterior of Berenson's estate is equally impressive, boasting a lush garden, a vegetable patch, a chicken coop, a terrace, and two swimming pools, one of which is indoors. The property features five bedrooms surrounding the patio, two suites on the upper level, and two guest houses, bringing the total to nine rooms. “I wanted this house to be a place where all my loved ones could come stay for as long as they wish,” she explains, adding, “This house can offer intimate corners or accommodate a large number of people if desired.”
Indeed, Berenson has hosted over 200 guests to celebrate the opening of the Yves Saint Laurent Museum in Marrakech, a few years prior to her interview, a nod to the friend who dubbed her the “girl of the 70s.” Despite a career filled with remarkable encounters and accomplishments, Berenson remains grounded and thankful. “I never imagined that all of this would happen. I dreamed of it, I wished for it, but it came about like a miracle,” she states, adding, “It’s wonderful to still be able to realize my dreams.”
As reported by lejournaldelamaison.fr.
