THE BLUE CITY

Chefchaouen, nestled in the Rif Mountains of northern Morocco, is painted different hues of chalky blue. There are two different views on why this city boasts its azure coat. At the start of the First World War there was a large influx of Jews who painted the town blue to represent the colour of the sky and hope. The other belief is that it was painted blue to repel mosquitoes (here’s hoping Durban paints the city blue soon). A monochromatic sea of various shades creates a cityscape where the sky and horizons overlap and blur. There is no focal point. Everything blends into one and any object or person who isn’t wearing blue pops with contrast and definition.

LISA RORICH Architect and Director Lisa Rorich Architects www.lisaroricharchitects.co.za