A reimagined residence turned boutique hotel is sparking a quiet revolution and creative renaissance in Marrakech…
Nestled in Marrakech’s ultra-chic Triangle d’Or, at the edge of La Palmeraie’s legendary palm groves and just five minutes from the Medina’s vibrant hum, Jnane Rumi is a creative landmark in the making.
Poised to open in April 2025, this newly reimagined cultural residence invites design lovers into a space where aestheticism meets soulful hospitality. With eleven thoughtfully curated bedrooms and a mission rooted in artistic expression, cross-cultural dialogue, and architectural integrity, Jnane Rumi is already stirring excitement as a beacon of creative renaissance within Marrakech.
Once home to Moroccan sociologist Paul Pascon, the Jnane Rumi’s architecture was originally conceived by acclaimed Tunisian architect Charles Boccara, known for his poetic interpretations of Moroccan architecture, most notably the Marrakech Theatre Royal. Yet it was the property’s Zen gardens – the Jnane, dotted with over 150 century-old palm, olive, and pistachio trees – that truly captivated its current owners, Dutch husband-and-wife duo Gert-Jan and Corinne van den Bergh.
Gert-Jan, a renowned art lawyer and founder of Bergh Stoop & Sanders, and Corinne, a sculptor and somatic therapist, have reimagined the residence as a platform for thoughtful travel, cultural immersion, and artistic exchange.
In its new era, the Jnane Rumi balances tradition with innovation. The recent restoration and transformation to a small hotel – led by Boccara protégé Nicolas Bodé and Belgian creative Jacques van Nieuwerburgh – preserves the structure’s Andalusian rhythm while introducing contemporary aesthetics and amenities.
The interiors, overseen by Dutch-Moroccan designer Mina Abouzahra, unfold as a tactile storybook of material culture. Vintage Berber rugs, handcrafted ceramics, intricate woodwork, and modern European furnishings are layered with purpose and playfulness. The result is neither overly curated nor contrived.
Earth-toned facades, shaded colonnades, and traditional Arabic archways give way to fluid indoor-outdoor transitions. Central to the architectural experience is a nine-metre-high domed ceiling – a sculptural moment that anchors the hotel.
The property comprises of 11 en-suite bedrooms, spread across the main house, three garden pavilions, and a private annex with its own pool. Common spaces include a hammam, massage room, library, and full-length swimming pool. Every corner of the property invites quiet contemplation or convivial gathering – depending on the moment.
Beyond form, Jnane Rumi embraces function as hospitality. Acclaimed chef Karin Gaasterland, known for her time at Riad El Fenn, brings a contemporary sensibility to Moroccan-French cuisine. Guests dine wherever the mood takes them: under olive trees, on private terraces, or in the art-lined dining salon.
Importantly, Jnane Rumi positions itself as a cultural engine, not just a luxury hideaway. Under the direction of creative consultant Samy Snoussi, the house showcases a revolving collection of works by contemporary North African artists – Mous Lamrabat, M’barek Bouhchichi, Amina Rezki, among others – juxtaposed with European names such as Roberto Ruspoli and Louis Barthélemy, both of whom maintain strong creative ties to Marrakech.
Central to the property’s ethos, regular events, talks, and art tours will be hosted on-site, open to both residents and the public, ensuring the space remains porous and engaged with the local creative community.
In a city celebrated for an iconic design legacy and strong sense of community, Jnane Rumi carves out a distinct space. This isn’t a hotel pretending to be a gallery, or a home masquerading as a resort, it is a manifesto.
All image credits: David Dumon
