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Modern Meets Vintage at Villa Lotus In Essaouira

Does your idea of getting away from it all for a relaxing break includes stylishly designed accommodation with a truly quiet and remote location – you should really consider Villa Lotus. Hidden away on the Moroccan coast in Essaouira, where you can really appreciate the ocean views and fresh air.

Essaouira is just about 170 km to the north of Agadir and the actual accommodation sits in among pinkish rocks and crystal clear waters, with it just peeking out of the hilltop, making it look and feel like some sort of magical treat.

It is owned by the well-known interior designer and hotelier Willelm Smit, who moved to Morocco when he began working at Marrakesh El Fenn, a prestigious hotel owned by Vanessa Branson as the general manager. Willelm was responsible for each of the hotel’s room’s décor and he has taken that with him for Villa Lotus.

Every inch of this villa radiates with his precise and very eclectic, yet sophisticated style. Although, it was more of a collaborative effort than a solo one-man project. The renowned and critically-praised French studio known as KO were invited along for the adventure as well.

Simplicity Is Key

One of the guiding principles behind the whole project is whole structure, with the goal of increasing the symbiotic nature between architecture and nature. This ensures nothing is covered and the real beauty of the surroundings will shine. So essentially, Villa Lotus serves as a camouflaging shell constructed from glass, concrete and stone.

The irregular and rough texture of the walls that takes its inspiration from the natural surroundings, with the slatted-styled wooden roof reflecting the vivid sunlight combines with the eye-catching yellow loungers for a truly beautiful place to chill out and relax.

The layout of the villa is with space and openness in mind. An open-plan living room and kitchen connect to three bedrooms and a hammam. In addition, there are additional rooms located at the guest’s cottage just a short walk from the main villa.

A central courtyard is where all the habitats sit around, giving the chance for lots of natural light to shine in and fresh air to blow in.

Alongside with showing love of the concrete and stone, there are a number of interesting design features, such as the living room’s cast-concrete bench emphasised with fluffy comfort cushions. To the side of the bench, there is an antiquated army trunk that was once Smit’s grandfather’s.

To help give the villa a mixture of the old and new, there are a number of vintage design touches throughout the property. Iconic pieces such as the Grasshopper lamp by Greta Magnuson-Grossman or the DCW chair from Eames. These sit well with the more modern touches to give the place a real elegance.

Images courtesy of Le Collectionist

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Alex Wright, Editor