Our Top 10 Hotels by Design: El Fenn

Eclectic, authentic, relaxed, casually chic, sleek, and very boutique, this gorgeous riad hotel El Fenn is imbued with joyful colour filled with modern British art and ancient Moroccan craft.

Designed by co-owners Vanessa Branson (sister of Richard) and Howell James, with the help of architect Amine Kabbaj, El Fenn’s saturated hues of cherry reds and pomegranate pinks, warm saffrons and azures scream pure Moroccan decadence.

Whether you’re looking for a private haven of tranquillity, a place of renewal, a romantic getaway, a place to think better, or a place of hedonistic pleasure, El Fenn offers all this, as, and when you need it.

It’s the perfect bolt hole from which to enjoy and discover the beauty of Marrakesh. I first visited El Fenn in its early days and found it just as intoxicating.

It has a deep sense of place and an authentic voice that has stood the test of time. El Fenn has the feel of a private house rather than a hotel. Its playfulness, colours, daring, positivity, and enlivening spirit remains irresistibly charming.

Name: El Fenn
Location: Marrakesh, Morocco
Year of Completion: 2004
Architects & Interior Designers: Vanessa Branson, Howell James, and Amine Kabbaj
Number of Rooms: 41