Mohammed VI Tower: A Symbol of Luxury and Sustainability
The Mohammed VI Tower, recently inaugurated in Rabat along the banks of the Bouregreg River, stands as a new architectural icon for Morocco and ranks among the tallest buildings on the African continent. With a striking height of 250 meters and encompassing 55 floors over a total area of 102,800 square meters, this tower represents not only a bold urban statement but also the cultural ascendance of the nation. Designed by the esteemed Madrid-based firm Rafael de La Hoz Arquitectos in collaboration with Moroccan architect Hakim Benjelloun, the project marries iconic architecture with sustainability and high-end functional diversity. Initiated by Moroccan entrepreneur Othman Benjelloun, the president and founder of O Capital Group, the project is managed by its subsidiary, O Tower.
A Multifunctional Marvel
Envisioned as a prestigious multifunctional complex, the Mohammed VI Tower hosts luxurious residences, office spaces, cultural venues, and a Waldorf Astoria hotel that seamlessly integrates with the skyline. The interiors of this hotel have been meticulously designed by Pierre Yves Rochon, featuring a restaurant curated by the renowned chef Alain Ducasse. Located in the heart of the Oued Bouregreg valley, this architectural masterpiece took nearly eight years to complete. The design of the tower draws inspiration from Othman Benjelloun's 1969 experience with NASA during a simulation for the Apollo 12 mission, leading to the creation of a structure reminiscent of a rocket poised for launch.
Upon entering, visitors are greeted by a grand lobby, various dining options—including the Brasserie Magnolia overseen by chef Lahcen Hafid—a spacious reception hall, an exhibition gallery, and a bank branch. Starting from the 29th floor, the luxury hotel comprises 55 exclusive rooms poised to become the premier destination in Morocco's capital. The 50th floor features the Heritage Observatory, offering an immersive and interactive experience where guests can explore Rabat and Salé's historic monuments through augmented reality. Finally, the tower's “cockpit” on the 51st floor, standing at an impressive 22 meters, invites exploration of the critical contributions of Arab-Andalusian civilization to the history of astronomy through the exhibit titled “The Sky Speaks Arabic.”
The construction of the Mohammed VI Tower was executed using a “Design & Build” approach, entrusted to a consortium comprising Besix, a Belgian group known for complex projects and previously involved in the construction of the Burj Khalifa, alongside Tgcc, a leading Moroccan public works and construction firm. The tower's design not only aims for aesthetic grandeur but also emphasizes eco-friendliness, achieving the prestigious international LEED certification. This accolade was made possible through innovative technologies such as a façade entirely made of photovoltaic panels, rainwater harvesting systems, and energy recovery mechanisms, ensuring the tower's sustainable operation.
Furthermore, the building features 36 elevators providing seamless connectivity between floors, with foundations extending 60 meters deep to enhance stability against seismic activity or flooding. The sophisticated damping system minimizes the impact of wind-induced oscillations, while the south façade and base are adorned with a double skin made up of 3,900 square meters of high-performance photovoltaic panels that capture and convert solar energy. This design effectively combines thermal protection with green energy production, creating a harmonious balance between aesthetic appeal and technological performance.
Lastly, French interior designer Pierre Yves Rochon has crafted elegant, bright spaces where luxurious materials such as white marble, carved bronze, brushed brass, Cordovan leather, ceramic zellige, and refined wood paneling come to life. Almost 7,000 works by approximately 143 Moroccan and international artists are showcased throughout the tower, creating a vibrant artistic journey that aligns with Rabat's vision as "City of Lights, Moroccan Capital of Culture." This extraordinary collection features monumental wrought iron doors, giant sculptures, frescoed ceilings, stucco walls, and traditional plaster calligraphy, including quotes from poets of the Andalusian golden age such as Al Idrissi and Ibn Al Khatib.
As reported by ilsole24ore.com.
