studio BoPA references berber language to design guest pavilions in rural morocco

aerial view of the main residence at the south side of the farm

images courtesy of studio BoPa

located in an agricultural region to the south of marrakesh, agafay sits on the border between green fields and a dry desert landscape. the site for this project is positioned in between a series of olive tree farms, which date back more than 60 years. shrubs and vegetation have taken over the plot and olive trees have deeply rooted themselves. with this in mind, studio BoPA doesn’t touch the existing trees but instead designs around them. 

‘dar yay’ is one of five guest pavilions on the farm

the main dwelling, called ‘dar B87’, resides between a line of existing olive trees and hosts the family of four. nearby this residence are five guest pavilions that are each named after a letter from the local berber language (the tifinagh alphabet). finally, there is also a swimming pool pavilion that’s formed by restoring the original structure on the site. 

each guest pavilion is inspired by the form of the local berber language

inspired by vernacular architecture, the proposal is characterized by simple gestures and a rammed earth/clay construction. without disturbing the landscape and vegetation, each pavilion is surrounded by the local flora to create a feeling of tranquility and seclusion. 

the swimming pool pavilion is restored from a pre-existing structure built in 1963

for guests who come to visit, the idea of the retreat is to learn about local agricultural practices and artisanal crafts through programmed classes taught by the family and local neighbors of agafay. the collaborative project will involve local farmers, artisans, and those interested in particular farming practices and local craftsmanship.

main courtyard located between the kitchen and shared space of the main residence

main living room of the main residence

masterplan of the project

isometric floor plan of the main residence dar B87

floor plan of the yahi pavilion

isometric of the yahi pavilion

floor plan of the yay pavilion

isometric of the yay pavilion

designboom has received this project from our ‘DIY submissions‘ feature, where we welcome our readers to submit their own work for publication. see more project submissions from our readers here.

edited by: lynne myers | designboom