Fashion lovers are flocking to the new Yves Saint Laurent museum in Marrakesh, the sunny Moroccan city beloved by the late designer, who was born and grew up in neighbouring Algeria. The new attraction has opened its doors just three weeks after a museum dedicated to the fashion pioneer was inaugurated in Paris.
Situated next to the lush Jardin Majorelle and close to his former home, the Musée Yves Saint Laurent is hidden behind terracotta walls studded with decorative brickwork.
Inside is a smooth arts centre, complete with auditorium and a permanent exhibition of some of Saint Laurent’s most iconic looks, including Le Smoking and the bougainvillea cape. Clever projections tell the story of the Algerian-born couturier and his creations, which took inspiration from the local textile and jewellery traditions.
The design by architects Studio KO (also responsible for Chiltern Firehouse) features richly coloured tiles and stained glass windows in the Saint Laurent palette. Funded by Saint Laurent’s life and business partner, Pierre Bergé, who died only weeks before they opened, it’s a fitting tribute to one of fashion’s greats.
The opening of the Marrakesh museum coincides with the inauguration of the Musée Yves Saint Laurent Paris, which is located at the former fashion house and current headquarters of the Fondation Pierre Bergé – Yves Saint Laurent.
Official website of the Musée Yves Saint Laurent
[Sources: Evening Standard and Dezeen]