At the heart of the world’s most prestigious diplomatic institution, the Permanent Mission of the Kingdom of Morocco to the United Nations in New York has been reimagined and revitalized under the expert guidance of Ardecor International. This architectural and artistic transformation reflects the Kingdom’s commitment to asserting its cultural identity while celebrating the excellence of its traditional craftsmanship—within a setting where heritage and modernity converse with grace.
Ardecor International’s approach goes far beyond mere renovation. It is a meticulous reinterpretation of space—one that expresses the rich, millennia-old Moroccan heritage through volumes, textures, and hues. Every element of the project reflects a harmonious balance between authenticity and innovation, where ancestral craftsmanship is elevated by contemporary technical expertise.
Zellige-covered surfaces breathe life and rhythm into the space. These hand-crafted ceramic tiles, produced in Moroccan workshops, have been selected according to precise color palettes, blending deep tones with subtle shades. Installed with meticulous precision, they respect classical geometric codes while introducing delicate variations that bring a contemporary visual dynamism. This ceramic mosaic becomes a living canvas—an ode to exceptional artisanal mastery.
Marble and natural stone cladding—sourced from both Moroccan and international quarries—adorns the floors, columns, and structural details with understated grandeur. Each piece has been precisely cut, polished, and positioned to ensure visual continuity and optimal durability. Hand-finished surfaces highlight the natural veining and tonal richness, creating a harmonious dialogue between refined materials and architectural volumes.
Crafted from red cedar from the Middle Atlas Mountains, the woodwork lends unmatched warmth to the diplomatic spaces. Our artisans have masterfully hand-carved traditional motifs into coffered ceilings, wall panels, and monumental doors—imbuing them with both finesse and depth. This expertise in wood brings solemnity and elegance to the interiors, where every detail bears cultural meaning and memory.
The age-old technique of damascening—embedding gold and silver threads into metal—has been applied to select decorative features, such as handles, frames, and lighting fixtures. Executed by master artisans, this refined and rare finish brings a luxurious and symbolic dimension to the space, elevated further by subtle, sophisticated plays of light.
This exceptional undertaking required seamless coordination between artisan teams, engineering firms, architects, and international suppliers. The technical complexity of preserving noble materials in a demanding urban environment—and the need to adhere to the strict security and confidentiality standards of diplomatic institutions—was met with uncompromising precision and discipline.
State-of-the-art technologies, including high-performance climate control systems and programmable LED lighting, were thoughtfully integrated to enhance the environment while ensuring long-term comfort and sustainability.
Through this project, Ardecor International offers the Moroccan Mission a renewed identity—one where every element serves as a bridge between heritage and modernity. More than a site of representation, the Mission becomes a cultural ambassador in its own right: a tangible expression of Morocco’s refinement and richness on the international stage.
Ardecor International