Berber Lodge

At Berber Lodge, the architecture begins with the ground beneath it. Earth from the property became adobe bricks; the old olive trees remained in place. Created by Romain Michel-Menière in collaboration with Studio KO and landscape designer Arnaud Casaus, the lodge has a material connection to its surroundings that is easy to understand and difficult to manufacture.

Handmade terracotta, eucalyptus, cedar and wild bamboo give the buildings their texture. Inside, Moroccan pottery and antique bridal chests share space with rattan and twentieth-century design. The arrangement feels personal, with interest coming from the relationship between objects rather than their number.

This is the kind of place that makes a persuasive case for restraint. A few good materials, thoughtful proportions and an olive grove can hold your attention for a very long time.