Riad Numero 9

Press Reviews

Conde Nast Traveller (UK), January 2011
"Three-suite riad stylishly decorated by its designer-owner."

The Guardian, October 2008
"One of the best [maisons d'hôtes] is Riad Numéro Neuf, a showcase of Moroccan decorative styles, adorned with all sorts of European antiques. The ceilings are cedar, painted by craftsmen centuries ago, the floors laid with mosaics. The central courtyard echoes to the sound of running water and birdsong. The view from the terrace is worth the steep ascent, and reminds you that you're tucked away in the depths of a labyrinth."

Elle Decor (USA), 2007
"Designer Stephen di Renza discovers it takes a village - and a convoy of donkeys - to restore a house in the historic medina of Fez...
What di Renza ultimately found was a three-storey structure originally built in the late 18th century as a rich merchant's guesthouse. Although not large by Moroccan standards it is both virtuously high and highly ornate. 'It was meant to impress' explains di Renza, 'and has all the details - a fountain, very fine plaster carving, beautiful painted ceilings - that one would expect to find in a much larger house.'
Paint had been splashed everywhere - all the wrought iron was silver and the woodwork was a brillant turquoise. To strip it, di Renza hired as many as 75 people, who worked away with Q-tips. He even flew in a friend who works as a painting restorer from The Louvre to teach them the right technique.
Traces of di Renza's past can be found throughout the house. The courtyard table was inspired by a Dunhill fixture he designed. In the sitting room are celadon prototypes conceived for Habitat. There are also a number of other Asian artifacts, vintage English and French furniture pieces as well as Moroccan touches..."

Guest Reviews

Reviews are only from people who have stayed there and booked through i-escape.

• “Excellent place to get away from it all.
  Great personable service without frills - just what you need to i-escape from it all. Highly recommended.”
  Paul, Belgium (02.11.11)

• “Riad no.9 is truly stunning. The owner has an arts and design background which is reflected in the decor and design of the building. He gave us such a warm welcome and advised in detail of where to visit in Fez. Dinner was prepared for our arrival which we shared at a beautifully presented candlelit table in the centre of the courtyard. Breakfast was also delicious. I really recommend this riad. It's one of a kind.”
  molly, United Kingdom (26.10.11)

• “We spent five days at Riad 9 and could not have felt more welcomed and relaxed. The atmosphere is a great contrast to the market bustle nearby and silting on the roof in the evening looking over the valley and town or downstairs relaxing in the courtyard made this a very special visit. The Riad is beautifully restored with personal touches of the owners which give it an added dimension. We highly recommend a stay, short or long term.”
  Doug, Netherlands (25.04.11)

• “We had a wonderful welcome with a wonderful wealth of information on what to do in Fes and fantastic recommendations which inspired us with confidence. We were made to feel at home immediately and the house was beautifully furnished. It was a real privilege to stay there.”
  Amy, United Kingdom (15.10.10)