Morocco Oasis Retreat competition Client Favorite Award - Nasser El Ayachi, Hatim Lahlou and Arwa Rafia

We’d like to take the opportunity to introduce you to the Client Favorite Award winners of our "Morocco Oasis Retreat" competition – Nasser El Ayachi, Hatim Lahlou and Arwa Rafia from Morocco!

Nasser El Ayachi, Hatim Lahlou and Arwa Rafia

Please tell us about your company (when it was founded, where it is based, how many employees, etc) Alternatively, if you do not have a company, please give us some insights on your own professional/academia background.

Our team brings together three young architects, graduates of the National School of Architecture in Fès, driven by a shared vision of architecture as a dialogue between heritage and contemporary expressions. Based between Rabat and Casablanca, we have built our experience within renowned offices, developing an approach rooted in the diversity of contexts and project scales.

Our practice is based on complementary skills, combining a mastery of modern construction methods with a deep knowledge of traditional techniques. We advocate for architecture that is anchored in its context, where the memory of the place and artisanal craftsmanship intertwine to create spaces that are authentic, sensitive, and responsive to their environment. Guided by a contextual approach, we place particular emphasis on materiality, constructive details, and ways of inhabiting. Each project is conceived as a research process exploring the relationship between space, light, and user experience — aiming to reveal the uniqueness of each site through a refined and timeless architectural language.

Brief information about the projects that you/your company have been involved with. For instance, what scale have you focused on/preferred, any significant projects where the company/ individuals have been Involved?

The multidisciplinary background of our team members has fostered a cohesive and complementary working environment, reflected in a diverse portfolio that spans a variety of project scales. We have worked on a wide range of initiatives, including the interior design of unique residences, regional university campuses, international sports stadiums, and national exhibitions abroad. Our approach allows us to seamlessly navigate between different project sizes and types, from intimate, highly detailed interiors to large-scale urban and institutional developments. Each project, regardless of its scale, benefits from our team's shared commitment to creating spaces that are not only functional but also responsive to their context, culture, and the needs of the users. The diversity of our portfolio demonstrates our capacity to adapt and innovate, ensuring that each project is treated as a unique challenge, worthy of thoughtful and creative exploration.

What does architecture mean to you and what is the role of an architect in your society?

While each of us may have a unique perspective on what architecture truly represents, we can agree that, should our era come to an end, we would be proud if architecture stood as a testament to a time when societies and their built environments were in harmony. To us, architecture goes beyond mere form and function; it is about creating meaning, connecting people, and shaping contexts. An architect is not just a designer but a mediator between the needs of individuals, the demands of the environment, and the cultural narratives of society. Architects craft spaces that influence the way we live, interact, and experience the world around us. Our role is to design with a deep sense of responsibility — considering not only the immediate needs but also the long-term impact on communities and the planet. Architecture, for us, is about balance, sustainability, and a thoughtful response to the social, environmental, and cultural forces that define each project.

Why do you participate in architecture competitions?

We regularly participate in architecture competitions as they provide a unique opportunity to push our creative boundaries while addressing a wide range of complex challenges. We have been honored with several prestigious awards, including first prize in the regional phase of the 15th International Edition of the Saint-Gobain Student Contest and first prize in the international Beyond Cement competition.

Each competition we have participated in has explored different facets of our profession, from designing comfortable homes to developing strategies that address regional, political, and sustainability challenges. These experiences push us to challenge conventions, discover new perspectives, and fully harness the potential of architecture. With every project, we strive to create designs that not only meet human needs but also advance broader causes, aiming to contribute positively to societies and their environments.

What advice would you give to individuals who struggle to decide whether it would be beneficial for them to participate in architecture competitions?

Participate! Even if you don’t win first place, the experience itself will be invaluable. It will push you to refine your methodology and help you understand the strengths of the winning teams. Competitions offer a chance to learn, experiment, and grow as an architect. The process will challenge you to think critically, expand your creativity, and improve your ability to collaborate. Whether you win or not, the insights gained are what truly drive your development in the field.