Inside Marrakech with Sophie Robinson: A Colourful Conversation at El

Les Inspirations Les Interviews / June 11, 2025

Inside Marrakech with Sophie Robinson: A Colourful Conversation at El Fenn

El Fenn is more than a hotel—it’s a living, breathing love letter to Marrakech. Hidden behind terracotta walls in the heart of the medina, this iconic riad has become a symbol of bold design, creative energy, and Moroccan craftsmanship at its best. Now, it’s opening its doors even wider with a series of curated Retreats designed to offer guests a deeper, more immersive experience of the city’s vibrant cultural scene. Among them? A colour-drenched design getaway with Sophie Robinson—interior stylist, BBC’s Interior Design Masters judge, and self-proclaimed maximalist—who returns to El Fenn to host her signature Discover Colour Retreats. Between rooftop sunsets, styling masterclasses, and souk adventures, Maison Flâneur caught up with Sophie to talk all things Marrakech: the magic of Moroccan hospitality, her design philosophy, and why El Fenn feels like home.

By Marie Winckler

What’s one design detail at El Fenn that people always comment on?

The colour! It’s totally immersive as soon as you step inside – bold walls in crimson red, saffron yellow sun loungers by a turquoise pool, and the most iconic collection of modern art, hung across every wall. It’s the kind of place that gives you permission to go big with your own design choices. Everywhere you look, something grabs your attention while the whole place sings in celebration of Moroccan design and craftsmanship. I love that it literally stops you in your tracks and forces you to be in the moment and take it all in. It’s a masterclass in fearless decorating.

What’s your favourite corner of the hotel — and why?

There’s a little spot on the rooftop with huge day beds, complete with views across the city rooftops – the call to prayer echoing in the distance, sun bouncing off the zellige green tiles – it’s pure magic. I love it because it captures what El Fenn does so well: it cocoons you from the hustle and bustle, while still connecting you to the heartbeat of Marrakech. It’s also where I go for a bit of headspace between the Retreat sessions – and often where I end up deep in chat over a Hibiscus Margarita!

What’s always on the table when you host?

I’m a maximalist at heart so I’ll layer patterned linens, coloured glassware, clashing plates, basically the more the merrier! I like to play with exciting colour combinations, and I always try and introduce texture. This could be raffia place mats, or antique mirrored candle holders, as it adds interest and depth amongst all the colour. And always some fabulous fresh flowers. They bring the table to life I feel, and make even the most humble supper party feel extra special. Then wholesome food, good music and lots of laughter are a given.

What scent, colour, or object makes you feel most at home?

For me, it’s the scent of orange blossom – it lingers everywhere in Marrakech. I picked up some Cote Bougie room diffusers on my last trip and it just transports me back! Colour-wise, it’s cobalt blue, the colour you see at the Marjorelle gardens in Marrakech. I’m not sure where it started for me, but I’ve always been drawn to this deep electric blue shade, like so many other artists and designers. I have it rolled out on all the walls in my hallway and it’s then repeated throughout most of the rooms in my home in one way or another. It’s a really versatile colour as it goes with so many other colours. And finally, the object that makes me feel most at home has to be my dog Lucy. When she’s curled up with me on the sofa, all is well in the world.

Your ultimate playlist for a Moroccan night in?

I always head to El Fenn's Spotify playlists – there’s something for every occasion here.

How do you approach mixing traditional Moroccan craft with modern design?

I always say it’s about contrast. If you’ve got the texture and warmth of handcrafted Moroccan tiles or plasterwork, pair it with clean-lined furniture or a bold abstract print. It’s the push and pull that creates energy. This is something El Fenn does so well. Moroccan craftsmanship is so rich – the zellige, the tadelakt, the leather, the metalwork – it brings soul to any space. The key is not to theme your room, but to weave those pieces into your existing style, in order to create something original. That’s something we really dive into on the Retreat – how to be inspired by Morocco without going full 'holiday riad' at home!

Is there a piece of furniture or decor with a special story behind it?

I’ve got so many pieces in my home that have special stories behind them. I have had the privilege to collect many things over many years, from family heirlooms to holiday souvenirs to car boot sale treasures. But while we are on the subject of Marrakech there is a fabulous painting that my best friend and artist Sophie Abbott painted for me, of the sunset from the roof top at El Fenn. It conjures up some very happy memories of good times spent with dear friends.

What’s your favourite local artisan or maker right now?

I’m loving the work of Moroccan design studio LRNCE. Founded in 2013 by Belgian designer Laurence Leenaert, LRNCE is a Marrakech based lifestyle brand with a focus on the handmade. The graphic shapes and fluid designs echo the city’s warmth, and playful spontaneity, but with a modern visual language. We took our Retreat guests to her Riad Rosemary which has been designed top to toe by Laurence, and it’s wonderful to see a designer create a vision that includes tiles, ceramics, tableware, art, textiles, metal work all singing together in her signature style.

What’s one item you always bring back from the souk?

Definitely a rug. Or three. The artistry, the symbolism, the colours – I just fall in love every time. On our Retreat we learned about the meanings behind the symbols woven into Berber rugs. From fertility to harvests, family events like births and marriages, all hand woven by women into these magnificent works of art. They’re like woven diaries.

What does the phrase “Moroccan hospitality” mean to you?

It means generosity, not just in food or style, but in spirit. You’re welcomed with warmth, with pride, and with this wonderful sense of family. The way a cushion is plumped, the flicker of scented candlelight, the fresh mint in your tea. It’s that layered attention to detail that I try to channel in all my work, and definitely on our Retreats. It’s about making people feel held and inspired, and that little bit special.

What would your dream dinner party at El Fenn look like — who’s around the table, and what’s being served?

We’re under the stars, the table is full of colour! From patterned textiles, layered with candles, to hand-painted ceramics, and vases of wild flowers from the market. Around the table? A mix of design obsessives, creative women, dreamers, doers and people who don’t mind getting into a deep chat about paint colours over dessert. The food? Tagines, slow-cooked lamb, zesty salads, and something sweet with rose and pistachio to end it all.

Tell us a little more about The Retreats you’re hosting at El Fenn!

The Retreats are honestly one of the highlights of my year. We spend four glorious days diving into all things interiors, creativity and colour with one of the most beautiful hotels in the world as our back drop. There are styling masterclasses, a deep-dive into Moroccan design traditions, as well as plenty of on-tap inspiration from the city itself. We visit hidden ateliers, meet incredible artisans, and come away not just with ideas but with confidence. And it’s not just about interiors. It’s about community, connection and reigniting your creative spark. I see guests arrive unsure and leave totally lit up.