Q. What makes your city’s design scene special/unique?
Rabat’s design scene is special because it beautifully balances modern innovation with a deep cultural heritage. Known as the “City of Lights” and recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Rabat’s charm lies in how it honours its rich history while embracing contemporary creativity. My hometown draws from its multicultural influences to create a design identity that feels both rooted and forward-looking. As the capital city of Morocco, Rabat thrives as a melting pot of backgrounds, reflecting its position as a bridge between Africa and Europe. The city has recently experienced a creative renaissance, marked by stunning modern landmarks like the Grand Théâtre de Rabat, the largest theatre in Africa and the Arab world, designed by renowned architect Zaha Hadid, and the Mohammed VI Tower. Beyond architecture, Rabat’s vibrant cultural scene is fueled by music, film and art festivals celebrating diversity and creativity, making it a truly inspiring place to live and create.
Is there a place/landmark in your city that helps inspire you as a designer?
For me, the area of the old city and the Kasbah of the Udayas is a constant source of inspiration for me as a designer. The medina is a vibrant and artistic place where creativity is woven into every corner. The objects sold in the shops showcase an incredible variety of traditional craftsmanship, from hand-carved woodwork to intricate textiles and ceramics. But it’s not just the items on display; the architecture is so impressive. Ornamental details adorn the walls, doors and even the smallest nooks, with painted motifs and mosaics that tell stories of Moroccan artistry. Walking through, you’ll often see artisans at work, painting, sculpting or crafting new pieces, always open to sharing their process. It’s a place that reminds me of the richness of my culture and the beauty of handmade work, where art comes alive in every detail, offering with such variety that anyone is sure to find something that resonates.
Just steps away, the Kasbah offers a peaceful escape with its Café Maure, featuring a terrace where stunning views of the Bouregreg River meeting the Atlantic Ocean create the perfect setting for reflection. Despite being tourist hotspots, these areas embody the heart of Rabat’s creative spirit and authenticity, making them an endless source of inspiration for me and the many artists and designers living here.
“"I dream of a Rabat where creativity is at the heart of its identity, a city that fully embraces its artists and designers, providing them with the tools, spaces and opportunities they need to flourish. Rabat has everything it takes to be a hub for design in Africa and beyond. By valuing our rich artistic heritage and supporting innovation, we can inspire a new generation of creators to leave their mark on the world. For now, Rabat continues to inspire me every day. Its balance of tradition and modernity, the vibrant energy of its streets and the stories embedded in its architecture remind me why I fell in love with design in the first place."”
Kaoutar Taghi Associate RGD
What do you wish your city had that designers would really love/benefit from?
Rabat is rich in artistic talent and cultural heritage, but there’s room for growth in how we support and value creative careers. While the city has excellent institutions like the Villa des Arts, which is vital to preserving Morocco’s artistic heritage, we lack shared creative spaces where designers and artists can collaborate and connect.
Another challenge is that the creative professions are under-valued. Traditional crafts are fading as fewer young people learn and practice these techniques. It’s a missed opportunity because Morocco’s cultural heritage is a worldwide goldmine.
There are encouraging signs of change though. Several Institutions, like the Mohammed VI Museum of Modern & Contemporary Art, preserve art and foster creativity through workshops and educational programs. These efforts will help ensure Rabat’s vibrant art scene thrives and evolves, offering hope for a future where design and art are celebrated and nurtured.
Related Articles
Sponsored
