Hacienda by Don Julio – Venue Takeover at Mandarin Oriental Marrakech

Six Months of Immersion. One Story of Craft.

Project Overview

At the Mandarin Oriental Marrakech, KristiesLab produced a six-month venue takeover that turned the world of Hacienda by Don Julio into a living experience. From the first sketch to the final spotlight, every element was designed to evoke warmth, craftsmanship, and connection, transforming the resort into a vibrant destination where the spirit of Don Julio came alive day and night.

“We didn’t design an event; we built a world that lived for six months.” KristiesLab Creative Team

The Challenge

To reinterpret Don Julio’s Hacienda story within Morocco’s most iconic resort, merging Mexican authenticity with Moroccan luxury while maintaining a consistent experience for six consecutive months. The challenge was not only creative but operational: ensuring the venue remained fresh, functional, and brand-perfect every single day.

Our Role – Full Creative Direction, Production & On-Ground Management

KristiesLab led the project from concept development to execution and long-term oversight, ensuring creative precision and operational excellence throughout.

Creative Direction & Thematic Design

– Concept storytelling rooted in the Hacienda lifestyle
– Complete visual identity for the space: materials, palette, lighting, signage
– Spatial layout and 3D renderings aligning with brand guidelines

Full Production & Implementation

– Custom fabrication and set construction
– Technical setup, lighting design, and finish coordination
– On-site supervision to ensure quality and brand coherence

Operations & Continuity Management

– Daily coordination across vendors and suppliers
– Maintenance of decor and setup integrity for six months
– Quality control to preserve the brand experience over time

Hostess Management & Guest Experience

– Recruitment and training of professional hostesses
– On-site supervision to ensure hospitality aligned with Don Julio’s premium standards

Impact

The Hacienda by Don Julio takeover became a benchmark in long-term experiential brand environments.

– Sustained Brand Immersion: The activation extended Don Julio’s presence across Morocco’s luxury scene for half a year.
– Operational Excellence: Every touchpoint, from decor to staffing, reflected precision and care.
– Emotional Resonance: Guests didn’t just visit; they felt part of a story one infused with authenticity and artistry.

“It became a living Hacienda. not a setup, but a feeling.”

Project Scope

Category

Deliverables

Creative Direction

Concept, storytelling, moodboard, and 3D visuals

Production

Fabrication, decor, technical setup, lighting

Operations

Vendor management, logistics, maintenance

Experience

Hostess recruitment, training, and guest management

Key Details

Client: Don Julio
Location: Mandarin Oriental Marrakech, Morocco
Duration: 6 months
Scope: Full creative direction, production, and on-ground operations

Gallery

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