16 minute read
My Neighborhood
Jemaa el-Fna market in the Medina A private courtyard
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—MARRAKECH— Moroccan Magic
The Ocher City is enchanting expats with its sundrenched weather, rich cultural offerings, and intriguing housing options.
THIS HISTORIC destination is piquing the interest of increasing numbers of expats drawn to Marrakech for its sublime weather, striking architecture, beautiful gardens, rich mixture of cultures and religions, and high quality of life. A short flight from many major European capitals (about 3 ½ hours from Paris, London, and Rome to international gateway Menara Airport), Marrakech offers an inviting change of scenery, particularly during the winter, when the light in the Atlas Mountains is at its most exquisite. Sometimes dubbed the second St. Tropez, the city boasts a climate not unlike the Mediterranean. The average winter temperature here is a mild 54 degrees Fahrenheit; in the summer, the norm is between 79 and 86.
Among the many renowned artists, performers, and politicians who have called the Ocher City (so named for the red clay used in architecture here since the 12th century) home are Charlie Chaplin, Winston Churchill, painter Jacques Majorelle, Yves Saint Laurent, YSL cofounder Bill Willis, and Jean Paul Gaultier. Although it has long been a darling of the jet set, today Marrakech is a magnet for expats of all stripes, with demand for homes increasing steadily since the pandemic.
RIGHT AT HOME
When it comes to shopping for a property, buyers will find a fascinating variety of possibilities. The Medina, the historic walled city center filled with narrow streets and spice markets, is famous for its traditional riads— mansions with private courtyards. But there are many other options, from contemporary golf residences to ultra-luxe apartments that rival the finest buildings in European capitals. Demand is on the rise for architecture that exudes a sense of local identity and heritage, although balancing the craving for character is the desire to ensure that one’s home is contemporary in function and feel.
Eco-consciousness, too, is high on many home buyers’ priority lists. Buyers want good thermal insulation and durable, high-quality materials that are easy to maintain.
8-bedroom riad in the historic Medina 1,850,000€ Mark.Harvey@ KnightFrank.com +4420.7861.5034
5-suite villa in Palmeraie, Marrakech Price on application Mark.Harvey@ KnightFrank.com +4420.7861.5034
Bahia Palace, a historic monument Water and electricity are also key points for home buyers to consider. With climate change atop everyone’s mind, properties that are connected to city water rather than dependent on supply from a well are highly desirable.
When it comes to choosing a neighborhood, start by considering your lifestyle. How do you envision your life and your time in Marrakech? What matters most to you? Easy access to the city center or the airport? A stunning view? Availability of high-speed internet so you can work remotely with ease?
If you crave a change of pace from daily life in a busy city center, a villa in the countryside could be a dream solution. However, living in a villa generally involves maintaining a garden and a pool—or having personnel to do so. If you long for a carefree lifestyle, a luxury apartment with a terrace might appeal more. Also, for those with children, a villa in the countryside tends to require longer travel time to and from school, sports practices, and the like. Hence, many families opt for the convenience of neighborhoods like Gueliz and Semlalia.
Meanwhile, a riad in the Medina can be delightful if you want to immerse yourself in local culture and history. A riad works particularly well for anyone considering running a maison d’hôtes (bed and breakfast).
DOING THE MATH
The procedure for expats buying a property in Morocco is straightforward. Any foreign investment is registered by the notary at the Foreign Exchange Office, which guarantees the repatriation of funds to the country of origin in the event of resale. The commissions payable by the buyer are 2.5% excluding tax (3% including tax) calculated on the sale price. Notary fees and transfer/ registration fees are approximately 7%. In general, buyers should add 10% to the asking price to calculate the overall acquisition price.
Another point to consider: Marrakech is a tourist capital, so properties often have strong rental potential, sometimes generating enough income to cover your maintenance costs. So, although real estate prices are edging upward with the surge in demand, you can still find appealing options for about $1–$5 million. You’ll also find lavish palaces for $15–$20 million.
TRY BEFORE YOU BUY
It’s a good idea for potential investors to spend some time in Marrakech before making an offer on a property. In addition to extraordinary luxury hotels such as La Mamounia, the Royal Mansour, and Amanjena, boutique hotels like the El Fenn exude great charm.
For a more immersive experience, you might consider @stellagallerycollection, which offers a handpicked collection of seasonal rentals. Spending a week in one offers a taste of life in Marrakech and an ideal way to decide whether a specific location and type of home is right for you. We also provide advice for artistic outings, restaurants, and shopping personalized to a client’s
preferences. —Stella de Bagneux, Stella Gallery, Knight Frank’s preferred agent in Marrakech-Essaouira
AMENITIES
• 162 private branded residences • Private beach • Panoramic sea and Dubai skyline views • Vitality pool • Meeting rooms • Cigar room • Squash, paddleball and tennis courts • Library • Steam room
PRICE upon request
Andrew Cummings andrew.cummings@ me.knightfrank.com +971.50.613.8350
IMPORTANT NOTICE This information is provided for general information purposes only, and does not purport to contain all of the information that prospective purchasers may require. In addition, this information has been provided to Knight Frank by the vendor and Knight Frank does not guarantee its accuracy. Knight Frank has not undertaken an independent review of this information and prospective purchasers must make their own enquiries to satisfy themselves as to its accuracy. To the extent permitted by law, Knight Frank expressly disclaims any liability for any loss or damage which may arise out of any person acting on or relying upon any part of this information. Areas, amounts, measurements, distances and all other numerical information is approximate only. Any photographs show only certain parts of the property as it appeared at the time they were taken. Except where otherwise provided, all references to rent, income or price are GST exclusive. Any architectural rendering of unconstructed assets is indicative only and subject to change at any time prior to the completion of construction without notice.
ARTIST’S RENDERING
ARTIST’S RENDERING ARTIST’S RENDERING
EXPLORE YOUR SIX SENSES EXPLORE YOUR SIX SENSES AT THE HEART OF PALM JUMEIRAH AT THE HEART OF PALM JUMEIRAH
SIX SENSES HAS LAUNCHED its first UAE hotel and branded residences in Dubai’s property market, with 162 branded residences stretching along a private beach on the West Crescent of Palm Jumeirah. The development will spread across 1.2 million square feet offering unrivaled living standards in a tranquil beachfront location, maximizing panoramic sea and Dubai skyline views. With its ideal location, top-of-the-range amenities and lifestyle offerings, Six Senses promises to become a new landmark for Palm Jumeirah. The branded residences on The Palm will include two- to four-bedroom apartments, some with private pools, 121 penthouses, 32 sky villas and nine signature beachfront villas, all managed by Six Senses and with access to the hotel's luxurious amenities and facilities.
ARTIST’S RENDERING
ARTIST’S RENDERING ARTIST’S RENDERING
EXCLUSIVE NEW DEVELOPMENT EXCLUSIVE NEW DEVELOPMENT IN THE HEART OF PARIS IN THE HEART OF PARIS
THIS BRAND -NEW CONTEMPORARY DEVELOPMENT, located in the 15th Arrondissement, will be set in a recently renovated building on the waterfront of the Seine. The building will consist of many beautiful features and amenities making it the perfect place to live. The apartments will range from studios to duplexes, and finish with a stunning penthouse, which will benefit from idyllic city views of the Parisian horizon. Several of the high-rise apartments will be extended by private terraces and will offer face-to-face views of the Eiffel Tower. This is a rare and unique opportunity in the heart of Paris and is not to be missed.
AMENITIES
• 1- to 5-bedrooms • 1- to 5-bathrooms • 1- to 3-reception rooms • Private terraces • Eiffel Tower view • Lift • Security
EXPECTED OCCUPANCY Q2 2024
Priced from €780,000 to €10,500,000
Roddy Aris roddy.aris@knightfrank.com
IMPORTANT NOTICE This information is provided for general information purposes only, and does not purport to contain all of the information that prospective purchasers may require. In addition, this information has been provided to Knight Frank by the vendor and Knight Frank does not guarantee its accuracy. Knight Frank has not undertaken an independent review of this information and prospective purchasers must make their own enquiries to satisfy themselves as to its accuracy. To the extent permitted by law, Knight Frank expressly disclaims any liability for any loss or damage which may arise out of any person acting on or relying upon any part of this information. Areas, amounts, measurements, distances and all other numerical information is approximate only. Any photographs show only certain parts of the property as it appeared at the time they were taken. Except where otherwise provided, all references to rent, income or price are GST exclusive. Any architectural rendering of unconstructed assets is indicative only and subject to change at any time prior to the completion of construction without notice.
L U X U R I O U S C O A S TA L R E S O R T I N T H E H E A R T O F T U S C A N Y
SITUATED AMIDST THE GREEN HEART OF TUSCANY in the Maremma region, this sophisticated resort features 36 opulent apartments, all with panoramic terraces boasting views over the Tuscan archipelago and the island of Elba. All properties benefit from an array of services and amenities, offering the convenience of a hotel experience within the comforts of a residence setting. Not only does this stylish resort feature a range of facilities, it has several beaches, an exclusive beach club, national parks and a variety of dining and shopping locations on its doorstep.
AMENITIES
• Leisure facilities • Terraces • Garden • Sea view • 104 to160 sq m habitable areas • Private parking at additional cost
EXPECTED OCCUPANCY JULY 2023
PRICED from €690,000 to €1,365,000
Yacht berths priced from €140,000 to €170,000
Andrew Blandford-Newson andrew.blandford-newson@ knightfrank.com
IMPORTANT NOTICE This information is provided for general information purposes only, and does not purport to contain all of the information that prospective purchasers may require. In addition, this information has been provided to Knight Frank by the vendor and Knight Frank does not guarantee its accuracy. Knight Frank has not undertaken an independent review of this information and prospective purchasers must make their own enquiries to satisfy themselves as to its accuracy. To the extent permitted by law, Knight Frank expressly disclaims any liability for any loss or damage which may arise out of any person acting on or relying upon any part of this information. Areas, amounts, measurements, distances and all other numerical information is approximate only. Any photographs show only certain parts of the property as it appeared at the time they were taken. Except where otherwise provided, all references to rent, income or price are GST exclusive. Any architectural rendering of unconstructed assets is indicative only and subject to change at any time prior to the completion of construction without notice.
ARTIST’S RENDERING
ARTIST’S RENDERING
ARTIST’S RENDERING
ARTIST’S RENDERING ARTIST’S RENDERING
SUPERB NEW SUPERB NEW PROJECT IN LISBON PROJECT IN LISBON
GRAND LOFT AVENIDA IS A SELECTION of beautiful new apartments within a charming traditional building dating back to 1900 and the Pombaline period. The building is currently set over four levels and will increase by an additional two floors to offer a selection of one- to three-bedroom apartments, perfectly combining high-quality modern finishes with the style and feel of the building and its location.
AMENITIES
• Balcony or terrace • Prime city location
Priced from €720,000 to €1,320,000
Oliver Banks oliver.banks@knightfrank.com
IMPORTANT NOTICE This information is provided for general information purposes only, and does not purport to contain all of the information that prospective purchasers may require. In addition, this information has been provided to Knight Frank by the vendor and Knight Frank does not guarantee its accuracy. Knight Frank has not undertaken an independent review of this information and prospective purchasers must make their own enquiries to satisfy themselves as to its accuracy. To the extent permitted by law, Knight Frank expressly disclaims any liability for any loss or damage which may arise out of any person acting on or relying upon any part of this information. Areas, amounts, measurements, distances and all other numerical information is approximate only. Any photographs show only certain parts of the property as it appeared at the time they were taken. Except where otherwise provided, all references to rent, income or price are GST exclusive. Any architectural rendering of unconstructed assets is indicative only and subject to change at any time prior to the completion of construction on without notice.
A L A N D M A R K F O R L I V I N G I N C E N T R A L L O N D O N
A STATE- OF-THE-ART COMBINATION of southerly views over Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens, exceptional architecture, gracious layouts with floor-to-ceiling windows, and hotel-style services makes Park Modern the ultimate urban resort.
AMENITIES
• 24-hr security and concierge • World-class spa • Beauty salon and treatment room • 25m pool • Residents’ lounge • Cinema • Gymnasium • Valet and secure parking
Priced from £2,150,000
Yazmin Murat yazmin.murat@knightfrank.com +44.746.872.8113
IMPORTANT NOTICE This information is provided for general information purposes only, and does not purport to contain all of the information that prospective purchasers may require. In addition, this information has been provided to Knight Frank by the vendor and Knight Frank does not guarantee its accuracy. Knight Frank has not undertaken an independent review of this information and prospective purchasers must make their own enquiries to satisfy themselves as to its accuracy. To the extent permitted by law, Knight Frank expressly disclaims any liability for any loss or damage which may arise out of any person acting on or relying upon any part of this information. Areas, amounts, measurements, distances and all other numerical information is approximate only. Any photographs show only certain parts of the property as it appeared at the time they were taken. Except where otherwise provided, all references to rent, income or price are GST exclusive. Any architectural rendering of unconstructed assets is indicative only and subject to change at any time prior to the completion of construction without notice.
ARTIST’S RENDERING
ARTIST’S RENDERING
ARTIST’S RENDERING
ARTIST’S RENDERING
AMENITIES
• Private health club and spa featuring 25m swimming pool and sauna and steamrooms • Private treatment rooms with therapies by leading practitioners • Residents’ cinema and dining suite
LOCATED ON THE VIBRANT CORNER of High Street Kensington, Holland Park Gate offers an elegant solution to London living. Conveniently connected to both Heathrow and Gatwick airports, the development also overlooks Holland Park's 54 manicured acres. The scheme consists of four elegant buildings offering generously proportioned apartments, all finished with Lodha UK’s hallmarks of quality and attention to detail. The residences are centered upon a leafy landscaped courtyard featuring curved planters and sweet olive trees.
The seller, Holland Park Gate, its developer Lodha UK and its appointed agents, give notice that: (1) all photographs, computer generated images and other visuals are for illustration purposes only; (2) any specifications and materials may vary from those shown; (3) any descriptions, measurements and dimensions are approximate and provided for guidance only, and no details are guaranteed; (4) although every care has been taken to ensure the accuracy of all information provided, no such information (including, for the avoidance of doubt, any CGI) can be relied upon for any purpose and does not form part nor shall be deemed to form part of, or constitute, a representation, warranty, or part of any contract. August 2022. • Gym with weights and yoga studio • Fully serviced office suites by Saint Amand • Secure on-site residents' storage • Automated parking system
“The Vault” with electric vehicle charging
EXPECTED OCCUPANCY 2023
One- to four-bedrooms priced from £2,990,000
Tom Rundall tom.rundall@knightfrank.com Jeremy Pelissier jeremy.pelissier@knightfrank.com
LOCATED IN THE HEART OF MAYFAIR, No.1 Grosvenor Square is home to some of the world’s most influential entrepreneurs, businesspeople and their families. Formerly the US Embassy on Grosvenor Square between 1938 and 1960, this extraordinary private residence is serviced by Saint Amand, Lodha UK’s in-house hospitality brand. The team is formed of 30 professionals, handpicked from the world’s leading hotels and private members’ clubs. Their mission is to create a truly exceptional, personal and discreet level of service for all residents that will genuinely improve their quality of life.
AMENITIES
• 24-hr concierge service via
Saint Amand • Embassy-level security throughout, including biometric access • Automated parking system
“The Vault” with electric vehicle charging • Private health club and spa including private treatment rooms, 25m swimming pool, vitality pool and sauna and steam rooms • Bespoke wellness services including nutritional and medical advice • Gym and private training studio • Resident members’ club with cinema and lounge
IMMEDIATE OCCUPANCY
PRICED from £8,250,000
Jeremy Pelissier jeremy.pelissier@knightfrank.com
The seller, No.1 Grosvenor Square, its developer Lodha UK and its appointed agents, give notice that: (1) all photographs, computer generated images and other visuals are for illustration purposes only; (2) any specifications and materials may vary from those shown; (3) any descriptions, measurements and dimensions are approximate and provided for guidance only, and no details are guaranteed; (4) although every care has been taken to ensure the accuracy of all information provided, no such information (including, for the avoidance of doubt, any CGI) can be relied upon for any purpose and does not form part nor shall be deemed to form part of, or constitute, a representation, warranty, or part of any contract. August 2022.