Dar El Farina is a minimalist home located in Morocco, designed by Leopold Banchini Architects. The site is intersected by two ancient water systems: a mesref, a surface-level channel that periodically delivers water for agriculture, and a khetara, an underground gallery dating back to the Almoravid dynasty, which historically transported water from distant groundwater sources to Marrakesh. While largely hidden from view, these systems highlight the critical role of water in shaping this arid region. For centuries, humans have harnessed this landscape, using irrigation and rammed earth walls to demarcate fields. Dar El Farina draws inspiration from these age-old systems, positioning itself as a linear structure that mirrors the paths of the mesref and khetara.

The house divides the terrain into two distinct environments: a preserved, barren expanse on one side and a thriving garden of native plants on the other. This juxtaposition underscores the transformative potential of water and thoughtful design in creating sustainable ecosystems. Entirely off-grid, the house relies on solar energy, the surrounding soil, and water sourced on-site for its operation. The design centers around two parallel rammed earth walls that frame a sequence of interconnected rooms, courtyards, and water features. Carefully calibrated openings and skylights invite sunlight into the interiors, creating a dynamic play of light and shadow.

Large pivoting doors allow for flexible transitions between spaces, seamlessly merging the interior with the exterior environment. This approach reimagines the traditional patio house, offering a contemporary interpretation that is both functional and introspective. The material palette reflects the essence of the site. Compressed earth forms the walls and floors, grounding the structure in its surroundings. In contrast, skylights lined with vibrant zellige tiles, crafted in a nearby village, introduce a subtle interplay of color and light. The glazed tiles filter sunlight, casting tinted reflections onto the house’s water features.