For the first time since it opened in 1947, the iconic Majorelle Garden in Marrakech is unveiling a brand-new exhibition space. Known as the Temporary Pavilion, this addition is nestled within the Villa Oasis and offers a fresh layer to the visitor experience, deepening the connection between the garden’s rich botanical heritage and its evolving story.
Envisioned as a peaceful pause within the lush landscape, the pavilion invites visitors to see the garden through a new lens—one that weaves together architecture, memory, and plant life in a subtle and thoughtful dialogue. The project was spearheaded by Madison Cox, president of the Jardin Majorelle Foundation, who wanted to mark the garden’s centennial with a bold architectural gesture. He entrusted the design to Hiba Bensalek, a rising Moroccan architect, who created a 100-square-meter eco-conscious structure meant to remain in place for two years.
Looking ahead, the foundation plans to launch a national competition in early 2026, inviting young Moroccan architects to design future temporary pavilions that engage with the spirit and evolution of the garden. The winning concept from this initiative is expected to be brought to life in 2027.
The debut exhibition hosted inside the new space is titled Flore Majorelle: A Living Collection. Focused on twenty rare or emblematic plant species, the show highlights the extraordinary biodiversity that defines the garden. The selection was curated by California-based botanist Dean G. Kelch, a specialist in arid-climate flora, whose scientific insight shaped the narrative of the display.
Adding an artistic layer to the botanical journey, designer Jaimal Odedra led a visual collaboration with the garden’s graphic team, resulting in a series of original illustrations that complement the featured plants. Together, the exhibition offers a multisensory exploration of the Majorelle Garden—blending science, creativity, and serenity into one immersive experience.
