Among the innovative efforts to reintroduce spatial or decorative principles of traditional Moroccan building to contemporary programmes, the work of architect Abdelrahim Sijelmassi is exemplary. Steeped in tenets of modern architecture in the West from his training in France, Sijelmassi's work over the years since his return to practice in Casablanca shows a subtle incorporation of elements from his own culture. (Source: AKTC)
The project is located in the commercial district of Marrakesh. Situated to the north-west of the city's medieval core, this area was developed and built up during the early decades of this century. The irregularly shaped triangular site lies at the intersection of several streets. The overall architectural treatment emphasizes the bank's public character rather than the notion of a private residential block. Visual unity has been achieved by means of a cylindrical volume placed at one point of the triangle and rising through the structure's entire height. This angle treatment is further dramatized by a spiral beam which wraps around the corner of the building.
