The Ourika Gardens in Morocco - A paradise of sustainability and beauty
Opened by YSL Beauty in May 2019, the Ourika Gardens are an exceptional example of environmental sustainability and botanical beauty. Over 40 species of plants, including olive trees, lemons, roses and saffron, thrive in these gardens. The project was designed by landscape architects Arnaud Maurières and Éric Ossart and is maintained by a cooperative of 32 women.
Yves Saint Laurent's love for Morocco and Marrakesh dates back to 1966. His enthusiasm for the country's colours and culture inspired many of his designs. The Ourika Gardens are a tribute to his passion and serve as a botanical experimental field and a place of contemplation.
The gardens are divided into three main areas:
The growing area. Plants such as saffron, walnut leaves and marigolds, which are used in YSL Beauty products, are grown here.
The botanical testing area. This area is used for the development and research of new ingredients.
The Homage Area. A memorial area to Yves Saint Laurent's love of flowers and nature, with plants such as wheat, hibiscus and lilies.
A central aspect of the project is supporting the local population, especially women. The cooperative, which was founded in 2015, has significantly improved the standard of living of the women involved. Their expertise, especially in the laborious saffron harvest, is invaluable. YSL Beauty's social program promotes their skills and creates financial independence.
Combining sustainable cultivation, scientific research and aesthetic appeal, Ourika Gardens are pioneers in the research of new ingredients for beauty and care products. The gardens provide a platform for research into plants such as sage mint, prickly pears and saffron, while contributing to reducing the ecological footprint.
THE HISTORY OF OURIKA GARDENS
2012 : Decision on Moroccan saffron as an active ingredient for a skin care line.
2013 : First saffron harvest for the launch of OR ROUGE.
2015 : Foundation of the Ourika village women's cooperative; cultivation of walnut trees.
2016 : Cultivation of other species: marigold, mint, sage. First marigold harvest for TOUCHE ÉCLAT and first walnut harvest for TOP SECRETS.
2017 : Training courses for the women of the cooperative. Development of additional land for the gardens created by landscape architects Eric Ossart and Arnaud Maurières.
2018 : Over 5.5 million products sold contain ingredients from the Ourika Gardens.
2019: First pomegranate harvest for ROUGE VOLUPTÉ SHINE.
