Wimberly Interiors lauds the opening of Fairmont Taghazout Bay

The much-anticipated five-star Fairmont Taghazout Bay has opened in Morocco, debuting a Wimberly Interiors design that redefines contemporary coastal luxury.

Eight years in the making, Wimberly Interiors’ London studio drew on the resort’s surroundings for inspiration, taking design cues from local textures and techniques, and the awe-inspiring landscape. The result is an authentic, layered look and feel that’s reflective of the mountainous terrain, sand and sea, with accents of geometric patterns, colours synonymous with the region, and signature Fairmont elements.

Collaborating closely with the architecture and landscape architecture design teams, detailing and screening were developed holistically, leading to a seamless experience that blends indoors and out. Upon arrival, guests are taken on a journey – overlooking a village beyond that leads to the sea. Across the site, the interior design integrates with the buildings’ shapes and forms – with views framed throughout and a series of internal courtyards that nod to the traditional riads of Morocco.

Inside, a natural and organic approach to materials is punctuated with vibrant color, highlighting Moroccan artistry and referencing local Berber design. Firmly grounding the guest in the destination of Taghazout, Morocco’s signature mint tea – with its unique taste in each region – is ceremonially poured as a welcome gesture, creating a truly unique experience that celebrates people and place.

“A sense of place was integral to the Fairmont Taghazout Bay’s identity. It was important for our design team to draw on the rich craft and patterns of the region, like traditional zellige tiles, tadelakt plaster and brick- and metalwork, complemented by a colour palette of deep, inky blues and neutrals,” says Rachel Johnson, Senior Vice President and Studio Director of Wimberly Interiors London. “Decorative lighting and rugs were sourced throughout the country, ensuring that feature furnishings highlighted the strength of Morocco’s artisans.”

Further commenting on the design experience, John Paul Pederson, Senior Associate and Senior Designer of Wimberly Interiors London, said, “We were incredibly grateful to collaborate with the team on the sourcing and collection of all the incredible accessories that have a nod to the Berber culture. All of which evoke a subtle international flare and timeless elegance, resonating with the Fairmont brand at its heart. It was a true pleasure to work with the entire project team to curate each piece in every space to ensure the perfect portrayal of a residential resort design – located in this stunning destination.”

Food and Beverage Design

Damien Follone, Senior Associate and Senior Designer, Restaurant and Bars at Wimberly Interiors London, said, “Morocco has a rich culinary identity, which led us to explore the food scene in cities like Marrakech, Essaouira and Agadir to better understand the breadth and diversity of the cuisine. The research guided the F&B experiences across the Fairmont Taghazout Bay, like the local Berber culture of sharing and cooking methods such as the tagine. The souk and Taghazout’s proximity to the sea also informed both the food direction and design across The Commons, Beef and Reef and Morimoto restaurants.”

All-day dining – The Commons
A play on colour and material from the region, the all-day dining references Souk El Had in Agadir. The arches in The Commons restaurant were constructed by local craftspeople, with local bricks.

Pool bar and grill – Beef & Reef
Seamlessly integrating with the outdoors, this relaxing space encourages guests to connect with the landscape. Blurring the lines between the restaurant, pool, and sea beyond, this intimate yet airy space references a traditional Tataoui Berber ceiling.

Morimoto
This destination dining experience uses local textures, materials, and delicate details to create a Japanese aesthetic. Animated and lively, it features contemporary Moroccan metalwork with aged, hammered copper.

Nola
Inspired by speakeasys and the spirit of New Orleans, Nola is a discreet yet vibrant jazz and cigar bar. Guests wander through velvet curtains and a series of spaces where the bar is finally unveiled, anchoring the main lounge zone. Featuring timber paneling, leather, a bespoke humidor and a playful art curation – it is an experience of escapism.

Junipers
This organic garden bar is a focal moment from the lobby that celebrates Taghazout, allowing guests to be at one with the land. Signature beverages are infused with ingredients from the surrounding gardens including rosemary, juniper and citrus.

Spa Design
The multi-level experience is a nod to traditional Moroccan courtyards and gardens, and the spa nestles quietly in an enclave of beautifully landscaped small buildings. From a sculptural staircase at the reception overlooking the spa gardens, to the sunken hammams, the spa is a truly Moroccan experience. Moroccan tadelakt plaster walls and zellige tiles are focal points – adding to an authentic, calm experience.