THE ENCHANTED WORLD OF DAR EL SADAKA
A former fortified farm, Dar El Sadaka has undergone various metamorphoses under the aegis of French visual artist Jean-François Fourtou who took up residence there in 2000, evolving through the continuous development of his work. ‘Sadaka’ means ‘the one who seeks’ in Sanskrit and ‘house of friendship’ in Arabic, two definitions that are in harmony with his philosophy.
The villa was initially a residence for artists, then the headquarters of a humanitarian foundation helping women and children in precarious living conditions in the region of Marrakech. Dar El Sadaka also hosted meditation retreats.
In collaboration with interior designer Philippe Forrestier, the villa was transformed into a guesthouse, a haven of luxury and comfort that is both unique and fantastic.
Disturbingly realistic yet friendly animal sculptures, created on different scales, are dotted throughout Dar El Sadaka. Outside guests are welcomed by a giant sheep standing beside the swimming pool. Orangutans are hanging from the living room chandeliers and a larger than life-size giraffe leans over the dining room table.
In the sculpture park, unusual monumental installations offer visitors a unique experimental journey that escapes the ordered, tidy adult world: a mud house in ruins turned into an enormous ‘Ant-Nest’, a house upside down ‘Fallen from the Sky’ where the floors, ceilings and walls all lean, ‘Nanitos’ small gardeners with pumpkin heads, and ‘The Giant’s House’ where everything is out of proportion.
Human beings are their own homes and to be happy, peace and harmony must reign within them. Based on these principles, Jean-François Fourtou and Philippe Forrestier have completely redesigned the villa’s spaces.
Each room is a creation that explores the theme of an animal sculpture, where earthen architecture, traditional materials, sleek furniture and local craftsmanship come together.
« Dar El Sadaka is a truly unique and magical domain, where everything is taken care of to ensure a feeling of well-being and comfort. My sculptures fill the spaces in unusual ways, distorting our relationship with time and space. In this enchanted yet refined universe, the mind is liberated, enabling one to fully enjoy the present moment and experience an unforgettable stay with family and friends. »
Book Your Stay Today
The villa at Dar El Sadaka is available year round only by exclusive reservation.
