A 17th-Century Home, Restored with Care
Tucked away in one of the oldest quarters of the Medina, just steps from the revered shrine of Sidi Bel Abbes, DarTzt is a home rooted in history and reimagined with heart.
This traditional riad, with its central courtyard and intricate architecture, was lovingly restored over a two-year period and completed in August 2005. What began as a crumbling structure became a careful restoration project — a commitment to honouring the original 17th-century design while introducing quiet touches of modern comfort.
A Note from John Shield
“The first time I stepped into the ruins of what would become DarTzt, I was captivated. There was an undeniable energy in the walls — a sense of presence, of story, of possibility. It was never about creating a hotel. It was about listening to the house, working with it, and bringing it back to life with integrity.”
In 2003 under the guidance of gifted French architect and old friend Michel Kergreis living in Marrakech at the time and without whose help the finding and transforming of the house would not have been possible, and then with the hands of skilled local artisans, the house was rebuilt using traditional materials and centuries-old craftsmanship. Plasterwork, carved wood, zellige tile — all were restored by those who still held the ancestral skills of Moroccan design. Aside from the plunge pool and the addition of a domed massage room, the structure remains faithful to its origins — with the same air of mystery, elegance, and stillness it carried in its earliest days.
Cozy salon lounge with traditional Moroccan decor and open fireplace at Riad DarTzt.
Restoring Authentic Marrakech
DarTzt sits in the northern part of the Medina, near the Zaouia (shrine) of Sidi Bel Abbes — the most famous of the seven patron saints of Marrakech. Born in the 12th century in Ceuta, Sidi Bel Abbes devoted his life to serving the poor and blind, and this district grew around his sanctuary during the Almohad dynasty. Unlike the much more commercialised southern Medina, this part of the city retains its authenticity, with narrow derbs (alleyways), hidden courtyards, and architecture largely unchanged for centuries.
When the house was first constructed, it stood within this thriving spiritual and artisan community — a place where craftsmanship and devotion were inseparable. By restoring the riad to its original style, we’ve preserved that atmosphere: where time slows, beauty reveals itself in small details, and the past feels just a breath away.
The Name Behind DarTzt
Originally, the house was named Dar Njemma, meaning House of Stars in Arabic. But after a series of amusing misunderstandings (and a few confused taxi drivers), the name evolved. Today, it’s called DarTzt — a playful, slightly cryptic twist that sticks in your mind once you say it quickly enough (go on, try it… Dar-tzzt!). My collection of artworks from “artists” known to me explains the pun!
A New Chapter
Very recently , I acquired the small house next door — a ruined property that, over a century ago, was once part of my house . The intention is to restore this space as a two-bedroom house , continuing the story of the home with the same attention and care but with a more modern design twist . Work has commenced and due to be completed by the Spring of 2026. This time design work was done by architects Daniel Delgado and Dorine Senechal in conjunction with Salma Badrana of Terramana. Construction work by Pole Construction S.A.R.L