The decor of Morocco, also known as Marrakech, is a dramatic, elegant, and supple blend of African, French, Indian, and Spanish styles. It’s about gorgeous colors, comfort, and exuding an inviting and relaxing atmosphere where all are welcome. This exotic, almost mysterious style started to influence the West in the 1960s, as travelers who visited the country brought back this opulent style which was so completely different from the mid-century modern aesthetic.
When it comes to interior design, the right mirror can do more than reflect your image-it can transform a room. A hand-carved Moroccan mirror is more than just a functional piece; it’s a true work of art. Mirrors are wonderful decor tools to make statements, to reflect natural light back into a room, and to expand spaces.
The Essence of Moroccan Design
To really begin bringing in the Moroccan style, it comes down to color. Rich vibrant color. Colors that are bold, reflecting the surrounding environment of north western Africa, which is the desert and the ocean.
The traditional curved doorways and arches, as well as the Islamic keyhole design, are some of the most recognized elements of Moroccan architectural style. These Moorish arches are sculpted into pointed, rounded, or lobed shapes and are featured in every home.
Another recognizable feature in Moroccan interiors are the lanterns, lamps, and hanging pendants made with colored glass and carved metals. Hung in clusters or as larger statement pieces, this style of lighting adds a sensuous atmosphere with its soft glow and shapes of shadows it projects on to surroundings.
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Morocco is famous for their tile work featuring geometric designs. One of the artisan crafts Morocco is well known for are their Persian rugs. Quite distinctive in their abstract and geometric patterns, these rugs are intricate and ornate, although more solid patterns are available in every shade of the rainbow. Vintage Moroccan rugs have a history woven in by weavers of these tribal carpets. Finding these gems in vintage and second hand markets is a true victory as the feeling that comes from these pieces of history is challenging to replace.
The Art of Moroccan Mirrors
Moroccan mirrors are known for their intricate carvings, often inspired by Berber symbols, floral patterns, and geometric designs. Each piece is made by hand from cedar wood or thuya wood and shaped into arches, domes, or rectangles with a unique Eastern charm. The craft and skill of Moroccan metalwork has been passed down from generation to generation. These intricate metal accessories are found placed as accents in most rooms of the home.
Like all mirrors, Moroccan mirrors reflect light-but their warm wood and handmade patterns create a soft, organic feel. While deeply traditional, Moroccan mirrors work surprisingly well in many decor styles. Choosing a hand-carved mirror supports artisans who preserve traditional craftsmanship. Many Moroccan woodworkers use eco-friendly methods and natural materials.
Own a piece of history, a mirror that holds the echoes of an era long gone. A hand-carved Moroccan mirror is more than a mirror-it's a legacy of design, culture, and craftsmanship.
Whether placed in an entryway, living room, or above a fireplace, a large Moroccan mirror draws attention instantly. Its rich details and bold shape make it the perfect focal point, especially in spaces with neutral walls or minimal furniture.
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Moroccan Courtyards: Riads
If you have the square footage, inside or out, carving out a space for a Moroccan themed courtyard will bring the heart of the country into your home. These courtyards, called Riad (Arabic for ‘garden’), traditionally started with a water fountain surrounded by lots of greenery. The concept was to keep cool air circulating in these hot climates. It was also a place to give Muslim woman some freedom and privacy.
Inspired by the insular and romantic look of the Moroccan hookah rooms, a trending inclusion in this design style are overhead canopy additions.
Touching another of the five senses, why not add some rich scents of Morocco to your home as well.
Doors as a Reflection of Moroccan Heritage
Gazing at doors in Morocco is like time-traveling into the depths of Moroccan history. In medinas as well as the newer areas of the cities, both modern and centuries-old doors line the streets. Stepping closer, one notices the intricate designs and wonders at the meaning behind each door. Although their cultural significance is often overlooked, every door reveals a different aspect of Moroccan heritage.
While some doors are decorated with intricate zellig tile work or an array of hues, almost every door shares the characteristic of the horseshoe arch, which was initially designed for architectural stability. This historical arch is still seen in many entryways of Morocco, illustrating the country’s strong cultural foundations.
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Reflecting the Islamic virtue of humility, the height of the doors requires a person to bow their heads as they enter the house, thus offering respect to the owner.
The architecture in Chefchaouen, nicknamed the “Blue City” for its bright blue walls and doors, further displays humility and respect. Beyond the bustling tourist hotspots of the “Blue City” lie plain doors devoid of any extravagant designs. Many doors are almost dull, bearing no designs or apparent craftsmanship. The bareness of these doors, however, is strategic. By rendering the entryways devoid of intricate design, it becomes impossible for people to determine the wealth of each home’s owner.
In a more practical sense, however, these doors reflect the land’s environment.
In Fes and Marrakech, for example, the design of the doors commemorates the history of Jewish and Muslim coexistence in cities. In Rabat, the doors further embody Moroccan history by reflecting both colonialism and traditionalism in Moroccan culture. As woodwork is a key craft in Rabat, many doors are composed of cedar, painted blue, yellow, or dark red.
Throughout Morocco, each door holds a different story and design that reflects Moroccan values and culture. While some doors are signs of the Islamic values of humility and respect, others shine a light on a past of colonialism and cultural cohabitation.
Embracing Moroccan Style
Moroccan inspired interior design is extremely grounding, embracing, and sensual in a way. This style feels calming and welcoming, creating a sort of indoor paradise and tranquil oasis from the chaos of the outside world. Though it is more thought of as a bold and dramatic style, you can easily tone it down and just bring in some of the elements on a more subtle level. Moroccan decor is diverse and will add a touch of warmth to almost any decor style you are working with. Again, it always comes back to personal preference.
The overall goal is one of socializing in comfort. Other furniture pieces can be very detailed with intricate patterns from top to bottom.
Vintage Moorish Hand-Painted Full-Length Wooden Mirror Frame crafted with meticulous artistry and adorned with intricate patterns, made in Marrakech. Each stroke of paint reflects the rich Moorish heritage, bringing to life the beauty of old-world craftsmanship. The mirror frame exudes a sense of history and a touch of the exotic, transforming any space into a sanctuary of elegance.
Elevate your decor with a touch of timeless glamour. The vintage allure of this hand-painted mirror frame adds character to any room, turning it into a canvas of culture and style. Let the mirror frame whisper tales of Moorish grandeur and intricate tales of the past. The artistic journey woven into its design invites you to immerse yourself in the enchanting narratives of history.
Embrace the extraordinary and make a statement that transcends time. Illuminate your space with the allure of vintage Moorish elegance.
Transform Your Home with Moroccan Decor Ideas
Embrace the mystique of Marrakesh with the Asmiro Arched Moroccan Mirror, a statement piece that marries the bohemian spirit with the intricate allure of Moorish design. This architectural gem is not just a mirror; it's a gateway to the soulful essence of Moroccan heritage, ready to infuse modern homes with its eclectic charm.
The Arched Moroccan Mirror transcends functionality, acting as a focal point that transforms your space. Watch as it adds depth and character to minimalist decor or becomes the centerpiece of a gallery wall, balancing the old-world charm with the crisp lines of modern American interiors.
With versatility at its core, this mirror suits any room, from a sun-soaked living space to a cozy, plant-filled reading nook. Hang it over a rustic wooden console or use it as a powder room mirror or pair it with velvet and silk textures to create a nook of bohemian luxury that feels both curated and carefree.
The Asmiro Arched Moroccan Mirror is a celebration of sustainable artistry. Using FSC-certified MDF wood and first-class floating glass, each mirror embodies our pledge to eco-friendly practices while adding a touch of global consciousness to your space.
Asmiro Arched Moroccan Mirror: Options
We offer an array of frame colors to complement your personal style and decor, ensuring that this mirror not only reflects your space but enhances it. Choose a bold hue to make a statement or opt for a subdued tone for a touch of understated elegance.
Please note that all dimensions listed are in the format of width x height. Please also be aware that all listed dimensions represent the maximum width and height of the mirror, measured from the furthest points on each side for complete accuracy and ensuring the size reflects the mirror's entire scope.
Allow this mirror to become the cornerstone of your decor, evoking feelings of wanderlust and the artisanal hand of distant lands right in your home.