Riad of the month

This delightful structurally sound 81m2 riad that Chic Marrakech have just taken on is one of the prettiest, well located and most affordable bits of Medina real estate to come up in ages.

As a specialist estate agent trawling the Medina property market day-in day-out for exciting opportunities, I can quite safely say, riads such as this, in prime locations, don't appear often.

For me, even though it is only a small home, it still manages to encapulsate everything that is magical about riads.

One of the most interesting aspects to the riad is the fact that it is an old brick construction, so the walls and building are truly sound and the restoration required is minimal.

Another is the overall aesthetic created from original cement tiling, the forged iron balustrade, stained glass and the ubiquitous decorative woodwork. They marry so well and provide such a soft, sympathetic decorative scheme.

It is certainly worth noting how rare it is to find antique woodwork in such good condition.

The woodwork is not only aesthetically pleasing, but also a big cost saving. Proper wood is perhaps the most expensive item in Medina construction and not having to replace it is a big plus.

The ground floor boasts a characterful entrance hall - (off from which is a neatly enclosed staircase, a traditional bathroom, and cupboarding space), a well proportioned courtyard and three principal rooms.

Then one of the main features of the first floor is the master suite, which is approximately 9 metres long by 4.5 metres wide. (Please see the photograph below). The generous size of this room is due to the house extending out above the alley outside, thereby increasing the floor plate to 100m2. Additionally there are a further two smaller rooms on the first floor, accessed via the feature balcony.

Lastly, it is worth noting the roof terrace is unusually wide above the suite, and also above the central portion of the house where there is a generous amount of space because the terrace extends out to the line of the first floor balcony. This creates another major selling point.

The riad is situated in a prime location in the historic heart of the Medina in amongst some super smart private homes and commercial riads.

Importantly there is parking nearby, along with car access, and many of the main tourist spots are in the immediate vicinity of the house as well as popular restaurants such as the Foundouk.

The price tag is an unbeatable 635,000 dhs.