Imports from Marrakesh specializes in stunning patterned and brilliantly hued floor and accent tiles, vibrant leather pouf ottomans and deep-pile rugs, and metal and glass-work lanterns, as well as custom projects overseen by artisans in Morocco, such as arabesque plaster carvings and mousharabi screens...
We spoke with Stephanie, the creative director, who runs the company with Mohamed Elmaarouf, the founder. She emphasized that their company is very small but does a lot of business with architects and designer,s because their stuff is "the real deal." While the website is beautiful, their entire collection can be seen better at their store, along with many more lanterns and textiles which are not currently online.
The Moroccan tile garden tables ($250-$2,000) and the wrought iron chairs ($165-$250) go quickly, while fez hats, berber carpets and palace pillows are favorites for photoshoots and parties (since many of the wares in the store can be rented).
Related Links:
Jay East: Chinese Imports
Boca Grande: Arts & Crafts Furniture from Around the World
Mosaic House: Moroccan Tile Company in Chelsea
Top three photos by Yun Cee Ng for NY Magazine
(Edited from this post originally published 11.2.07)
Veronica & Keith's Handmade Chic 
Before & After: A Bathroom Goes From Pinky Peach to Sleek and Chic
Good Food to Share 
The Big Book of Small, Cool Spaces 
Apartment Therapy Presents 
The Eight-Step Home Cure 
Hunslet Dinner Plate
A Beginner's Guide to Superb Stir-Fry: Quick, Healthy Meals from a Wok
Easy Pitcher Cocktail Recipe: Strawberry Basil Margaritas
Comments (9)
A word of warning about this store in the Chelsea Market: it's best to go in the company of a friend who can tend to you after you faint from the overload of gorgeousness and possibilities. Mr. Elmaarouf is great to talk to, and what's shown in the shop is just the tip of the iceberg--the mother lode is apparently downstairs.
The water vendors' bags all covered with coins are to die for. . . .
thanks for the warning
I LOVE everything in this store.
But WAY overpriced.
Such a shame but somewhat understandable - how else are they to stay open in such a prime location?
Yes, the store is gorgeous and the prices are high. I go here just to window shop. The owner is quite friendly and helpful. At some point I will buy something. :)
Ah, my gorgeous Moroccan pouf came straight from Marrakesh! I had to stuff it with clothes just to get it back but it was so worth it.
It looks a bit like this, but prettier. Natural beige leather, with black and white stitching.
http://d2ssd.com/www-source/me_shop/poufs/Img_2701rscr.jpg
I adore those poufs. I'm about to make the trip to New York just to see this store! (from New Jersey) Any idea on the price range for the poufs?
No idea, sorry. I am convinced I paid an amount closer to 20 than 50 euros in Marrakech, though no idea how much they'd cost in NY. Well worth it though, 4 years later and the thing is still holding up great.
I have two poufs that I got at Imports from Marrakesh. They range from about $150-$350, depending on the size, shape, and detailed stitching. They are beautiful and well worth the money. I get compliments on them all the time. The people that work there are pleasant and very helpful. Not only the poufs but their rugs, lamps and tables are gorgeous.
This store is one of the joys of visiting NY, the whole Chelsea market is worth an afternoon of browsing and eating.