Lifestyle
City Guide: In Marrakech with the LRNCE Brand
Feel like getting away? Pack your bags—we’ve found the perfect destination to soak up some sun. Head to Marrakech, the cradle of craftsmanship and artistry, where the LRNCE brand was born. Laurence, the founder of this Moroccan lifestyle brand, shares her top picks around this sun-drenched city.
For a shopping trip
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Studio LRNCE: Spend an entire morning in Sidi Ghanem, the former industrial zone that has become a hub for designers. It is here that Laurence Leenaert, a Belgian designer trained at the Royal Academy of Fine Arts in Ghent, has set up the studio for LRNCE, the brand she founded in Marrakech in 2013. Painted ceramics, textiles, clothing, and art pieces—all handmade with local artisans—the brand’s entire collection is on display here. Right next door, stop by Lalla, a Franco-Moroccan brand of handbags hand-sewn in its Marrakech workshops, featuring bold and cheerful colors. 59 Rue Principale Sidi Ghanem
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Lalla: While you’re visiting Sidi Ghanem, stop by Lalla—this Moroccan brand offers chic, laid-back, handmade bags. The perfect item to bring a little Moroccan sunshine back home with you. 280 Route Principale, Sidi Ghanem
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Rue des Tilleuls: The brand name tells a story all on its own. Rue des Tilleuls is the address of Kenza Wahabi’s grandparents’ home in Casablanca. She grew up there watching her grandmother dress with care and have her outfits custom-made by tailors. In 2018, Kenza turned these memories into a Moroccan fashion brand: refined, feminine pieces with a touch of nostalgia that makes you want to keep them for a long time. Visits and fittings are by appointment only, so you can take your time choosing and receive expert advice.
By appointment, Marrakech
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Magasin Général: Still in the same neighborhood, this shop is perfect for lovers of unique finds. Here you’ll find period furniture from around 1900, sourced from Europe and restored in Marrakech. Every piece has a story, and you’ll leave with your head full of ideas for decorating your home.281 Q.I. Sidi Ghanem, Route de Safi
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Argument: Instead of buying jewelry, why not make it yourself? At Argument, Anne-Sophie creates rings, necklaces, and earrings from gemstones, mother-of-pearl, and silver in both Marrakech and Paris. She also offers 1.5- to 2-hour workshops where you can make your own necklace, bracelet, or earrings. It’s a fun activity to enjoy with friends or family—children are welcome—and a keepsake with a real story behind it. Villa Hujja, near Marrakech; by appointment only.
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