Building Quality: A National Conference on Architectural Standards in Morocco

In a context marked by accelerated major projects throughout the Kingdom and rising challenges related to sustainable urban development, the National Syndicate of Moroccan Architects (SNAP Architect) organized a national conference in Casablanca titled "Building Quality: Between Standards, Classifications, and Architect Responsibility." This event took place at the Mohamed Sekkat University Library.

This meeting is set against a backdrop of urban and territorial transformation in the country, addressing the urgent need to rethink the concept of "quality in construction" as a central pillar of any successful development project. It embodies an authentic Moroccan vision that blends creativity, cultural specificity, and respect for environmental and technical standards.

The conference brought together numerous architects, real estate developers, project owners, representatives from consulting firms and official institutions, as well as renowned experts in architecture and urban planning.

In his opening speech, Mr. Hassan Hassan El Menjra Essâadi, President of the National Syndicate of Moroccan Architects, emphasized that the syndicate has consciously chosen to spark an in-depth national debate on the issue of quality, particularly in an architectural and climatic context characterized by marginalization and a failure to adapt to the needs of citizens and the environment.

He stated, "When we talk about quality, we are not only referring to the city, but also to villages, rural areas, and mountains… Quality must be universal and equitable, covering all regions of the country without distinction."

He also issued a clear call to all stakeholders, asserting that Moroccan architects are more than capable of contributing to the construction of Morocco 2030—an ambitious Morocco driven by major projects. This contribution requires allowing architects to fully assume their roles as the true conductors of construction sites and guarantors of quality in execution according to the highest standards.

Mr. Charafeddine Barada, an architect, discussed the multiple dimensions of the concept of quality in construction. He insisted that quality should not be measured solely in terms of costs or technical means, but should also reflect a spirit of commitment, precise knowledge, and harmonious cooperation among all stakeholders—from architects to contractors, and workers on-site.

He clarified that building quality cannot be achieved without proper recognition of every link in the architectural production chain, advocating for the valorization of the worker’s role. He mentioned, "An architect can design a perfect project, but its realization on the ground relies on the worker’s effort."

The conference’s discussions centered around three main axes:

1. Establishing a national quality reference based on Morocco’s environmental and territorial specificities, distinct from foreign models.
2. Re-evaluating the role of architects—not just as designers, but as key players responsible for ensuring quality from planning to execution.
3. Integrating quality as a strategic lever for the success of major national projects in housing, infrastructure, and public facilities.

The conference concluded with a series of professional and institutional recommendations calling for:

• Adopting quality as a strategic choice in public construction and urban planning policies.
• Enhancing coordination among all stakeholders on construction sites, broadening discussions on the responsibilities of each party.
• Valuing local materials and developing mechanisms for classification and accreditation tailored to Moroccan realities.
• Incorporating environmental and cultural dimensions into quality criteria, aligning with sustainability goals and quality of life.

Participants affirmed that this conference marks a foundational step in a long-term process through which the National Syndicate of Moroccan Architects aspires to foster a collective awareness of the importance of quality while developing new governance tools for projects and solidifying the architect’s place as a strategic player in development.