The allure of Moroccan style transcends time. Inspired by the rich heritage of Northern Africa, this design approach evokes a sense of mystique and warmth that transforms any outdoor space into a haven of elegance and charm. Whether you are a landscape architect or an interior designer, embracing natural materials, vibrant colors, and intricate patterns can help you curate a space that is both a home extension and a celebration of Moroccan decor and design. Look to these Moroccan patio ideas to create the perfect place for both relaxation and social gatherings.
Growing up in Morocco, my favorite relaxing place was our riad‘s outdoor patio. It was a calm space where we would relax, read a book, or chat with other family members while drinking Moroccan mint tea. I am happiest when I work on Moroccan outdoor decor projects. Moroccan outdoor decor is pretty easy to replicate. You need to focus on Morocco’s most emblematic pieces.
Key Elements of Moroccan Outdoor Decor
1. Seating Arrangements
There are many ways to enjoy seating in a traditional Moroccan outdoor space. In Morocco, outdoor spaces are usually decorated so people can sit on the floor and relax. That’s why poufs, pillows, and rugs are essential decoration pieces.
If you love colors and want your outdoor decor to look like a terrace in Marrakech, then Moroccan kilim pillows are the way to go. These Moroccan pillows are very popular in Morocco, especially in Marrakech.
The kilim poufs are like the kilim pillows. The most common and popular type of poufs is the Moroccan leather poufs. These poufs are a staple in Moroccan decor and are used to adorn indoor and outdoor spaces. They contribute to the space’s coziness, allowing for a more decontracted gathering.
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Another option is to use Moroccan Beni Ourain pillows and poufs. These poufs are made using wool and natural black and white dyes.
I have a few in my apartment in different colors and sizes. They make the perfect pouf to sit on and rest your feet, and the large ones can also be used as a coffee table if you put a tray on top.
A Moroccan-inspired gathering space with low seating emphasizes intimacy and conversation, perfect for lively discussions or quiet moments. Image from Hearst Apps.
2. Moroccan Tables
Moroccan tables come in all sizes, colors, and heights. They include artisanal work done on either wood or brass, and the most common-and popular-type is the Moroccan tray table. It’s made of two components: a top level that is a removable tray and a bottom level that is collapsible wooden legs.
It’s a very practical piece as it can be stored easily once you’re done using it, making it perfect for outdoor decoration. It can also be used indoors as a coffee table to hold magazines, flower pots, or as a daily cup of coffee.
3. Lighting
Moroccan lighting will add the perfect cozy Moroccan touch to your outdoor decor. The most popular lighting options are handmade using brass, rattan, wood, etc., and come in different shapes and colors.
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Lighting plays a pivotal role in setting the mood, and nothing does it quite like Moroccan lanterns. Their ornate design and intricate patterns cast delicate shadows that add depth and magic to the patio as dusk falls. Opt for lanterns made of glass and metal, which create an ambiance that is both enchanting and refined. Whether suspended above a seating area or nestled among potted succulents and plants, these lanterns transform the space into an outdoor sanctuary for evening gatherings.
Moroccan lanterns with intricate patterns cast delicate shadows, adding depth and magic to the patio as dusk falls. Image from My Domaine.
4. Plants
Cactuses and small palm trees are my favorite plants for Moroccan outdoor decor. I love to use many varieties at different heights and/or mix them with other plants.
5. Tiles, Fountains, and Courtyards
Tiles, fountains, and courtyards are very Moroccan and often go together. Most rooms in our home connect to the courtyard so we constantly traverse under the open sky, day and night. The simple green and white tiles we chose are very much Moroccan and have faded with the sunshine, something we didn’t know would happen. Our fountain recycles water and when turned on delivers the most relaxing splashing and babbling sounds, a meditative backdrop all day long.
If your home can’t accommodate a courtyard and fountain, don’t panic. Moroccan tiles fit in just about anywhere to lend an instant North African injection and work really well as a backsplash. Moroccan wash basins are also an easy way to add a splash of Morocco to your bathroom.
Moroccan tiles fit in just about anywhere to lend an instant North African injection and work really well as a backsplash. Image from Pinterest.
6. Moroccan Handira Blankets
Worn by the Berber bride over her shoulders on her wedding day, the Handira is one of our favorite Moroccan accents and so versatile. Draped over a chair, at the foot of a bed, or hung over a wooden ladder to warm a wall, handiras are about as cheerful as you can get. I sometimes parade around the house with one draped over my shoulders for an instant mood lifter!
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7. Moroccan Breadbaskets
Made from coiled wood on the inside and hand woven and naturally dyed wool on the outside, Moroccan bread baskets are the perfect accent piece that also can serve a function. We have a very bold and bright one placed on our entrance table. Inside we keep our cat’s hair brush and all our spare keys. Bread baskets are also wonderful in bathrooms to house toilet paper rolls, hairbrushes, it is endless really.
8. Moroccan Ceramics
I love ALL Moroccan ceramics. It’s impossible for me to choose so for this reason our kitchen is kitted out with bowls from Fez to Safi in every style and color combo imaginable. Most Moroccan bowls, even the smallest, have two holes drilled into a rim on the base. This allows for easy hanging.
Arranging Moroccan ceramics on a wall is an inexpensive and powerful way to add Moroccan flare.
9. Moroccan Lights
There is perhaps no better way to conjure 1001 Nights than switching on a hand carved brass or pewter Moroccan light and letting the delicate light patterns bathe your wall. Of course this will only happen with a clear light bulb so always have them on hand. We have Moroccan lights in every room, even the bathrooms.
Moroccan lights also come in the form of rattan, a durable, flexible, and rainproof material from the palm family. Rattan lights give off a refreshing feel, on or off, and look great grouped together or alone.
10. Moroccan Poufs & Rugs
Moroccan poufs and rugs are yet another quintessentially Moroccan item. Boujad, Azilal, Boucherouite, Beni Ouarain, and Sabras are just some of the types of styles available. Each comes from a different region, mostly mountainous, where women make the carpets by hand using everything from textile scraps (Boucherouite) to naturally dyed sheep wool. Moroccan rugs and the labor that goes into them are a source of pride in Morocco. We have them on the floor inside and out and also hang them as wall decorations.
11. Moroccan Tea Pots
Drinking atay (‘tea’ in Arabic) is a national pastime in Morocco and there is no escaping it! Offered in homes, before and after transactions in the souks, or just because, tea can be found anytime, anywhere. Like any tradition, tea time in Morocco can be elaborate or very simple and the range of tea pots reflect this.
We are particularly attracted to carved vintage pots but as Aziz and I don’t drink tea, we scatter them around our home full of fresh roses. It’s such a simple thing, but the Moroccan tea pot packs a punch when introduced into your home.
12. Moroccan Tables
There are so many typical Moroccan furnishings and all of them so beautiful. But perhaps the easiest way to add Moroccan flare through furniture is a Moroccan table. Typically hand carved from wood, Moroccan tables come in all different kinds of styles from intricately carved cedar with shell inlay, to tables brightly painted with floral and geometric shapes and Moorish cut outs at the bottom.
A Moroccan table adds flare through furniture with intricate carvings and bright colors. Image from Pinterest.
15 Moroccan Style Patio Ideas for Refined Spaces
By thoughtfully incorporating elements like terracotta tiles, mosaic artistry, natural stone, and reflective glass into your project, you can create a space that honors Moroccan traditions while embracing the practical demands of modern design.
1. Lay the Foundation with Timeless Terracotta
A great way to start your design is by grounding it with terracotta tiles. These tiles, steeped in tradition, create an inviting and earthy floor that sets the stage for an outdoor space filled with beauty and natural materials. The warm hues of terracotta tiles add depth and contrast, providing the perfect backdrop for both ornate lanterns and vibrant colors. As you integrate these tiles, consider pairing them with gray cushions and throw pillows to offer a subtle contrast that enhances the overall ambiance.
2. Infuse Geometric Drama with Cement Tiles
Another approach is to introduce cement tiles to your design. These tiles, with their bold colors reminiscent of traditional Moroccan decor, bring an unexpected visual twist to the floor, tiled stairs, and accent walls. The interplay of bright hues and subtle texture in the tile creates a dynamic interplay that nods to the richness of Moroccan culture. When paired with simple outdoor furniture such as wicker sofas, cement tiles can transform the space into a beautiful canvas that resonates with the artistic spirit of Morocco.
3. Weave In Softness with Layered Outdoor Textiles
Using outdoor textiles elevates the tactile experience of a Moroccan patio. Layer your design with an array of vibrant rugs, throw pillows, and cushions to soften the edges of hardscapes and add a touch of whimsy. Consider mixing different textures and fabrics, ranging from plush pillows to traditional rugs with rustic charm. These textiles will help infuse the space with a colorful narrative, echoing the vibrant shades of Moroccan interiors. A carefully curated mix of fabrics also ensures that every corner of the outdoor space has warmth and personality.
Layering vibrant rugs, throw pillows, and cushions softens hardscapes and adds whimsy to a Moroccan patio. Image from Hearst Apps.
4. Illuminate with Moroccan Lanterns for Ambient Glow
Lighting plays a pivotal role in setting the mood, and nothing does it quite like Moroccan lanterns. Their ornate design and intricate patterns cast delicate shadows that add depth and magic to the patio as dusk falls. Opt for lanterns made of glass and metal, which create an ambiance that is both enchanting and refined. Whether suspended above a seating area or nestled among potted succulents and plants, these lanterns transform the space into an outdoor sanctuary for evening gatherings.
5. Create a Moroccan-Inspired Gathering Space with Low Seating
Emphasize intimacy and conversation by incorporating low seating options into your outdoor design. Traditional Moroccan patios often feature floor seating with plush cushions and pillows arranged around low tables or benches. This arrangement encourages a communal vibe, ideal for hosting lively discussions or enjoying a quiet moment under the stars. Use natural materials like mosaic tiles to accentuate the seating area, and integrate ornate lanterns overhead to maintain a whimsical yet polished atmosphere. This configuration not only enhances the functional aspect of your outdoor space but also embraces Moroccan heritage.
6. Introduce Mosaic Artistry on Water Features and Accent Walls
Mosaic tiles are a hallmark of Moroccan design and add a layer of artistic expression to the patio. Use intricate patterns to create striking accent walls or to frame a tranquil water feature that serves as the centerpiece of your design. The interplay of mosaic tiles and flowing water evokes a sense of calm and rhythm, reminiscent of ancient Arabesque artistry. By strategically placing these mosaic elements around a pool or along a patio floor, you add a burst of color and texture that elevates the overall design.
7. Ground the Design In Nature with Natural Stone
Natural stone lends an organic touch to a world full of Moroccan tile and textiles. Try incorporating stone elements into the patio by using them for pathways, retaining walls, or as an accent around water features. The rough-hewn texture of natural stone contrasts beautifully with the smooth surfaces of terracotta and glass. This approach emphasizes the beauty of natural materials and grounds the design in the organic landscapes that are central to Moroccan style. As succulents and other plants find their place among these stones, the patio becomes a living tapestry that blends design with nature.
8. Enrich the Hardscape with Lush Greenery and Pottery
Integrating greenery is essential when crafting an outdoor space that feels both alive and rooted in tradition. Arrange clusters of potted plants, succulents, and vibrant flowers around key features of your design. Decorative ceramics inspired by Moroccan decor can serve as both functional and aesthetic elements, adding color and charm. These natural accents soften the hardscape created by patio tiles, weaving in a sense of organic beauty and tranquility. Whether the space is nestled in a serene backyard or extends from a bustling home, adding plants and natural elements ensures that the design remains vibrant and inviting.
9. Define Space with Decorative Tile Inlays
Use decorative tile inlays to delineate different zones within the outdoor area. These inlays act as subtle guides that transition from dining areas to lounging spots or garden paths. By strategically placing Moroccan tile inlays along the floor, you create defined spaces that feel intentional and curated. The inlays, often featuring arches and intricate patterns, serve as focal points that draw the eye and anchor the design. This technique not only enhances the space’s visual appeal but also reinforces the connection to traditional Moroccan style, making each section of the patio a story in itself.
10. Explore the Elegance of Monochrome and Matte Finishes
For a modern twist on a Moroccan-inspired patio, consider incorporating monochrome elements with matte finishes. A subtle color palette dominated by shades of gray and white, accented with bursts of vibrant colors through accent pieces like throw pillows and ornate lanterns, offers a sophisticated backdrop for your design. This approach allows the textures and materials - ranging from terracotta tiles to natural stone - to take center stage. The contrast between sleek, modern lines and the organic charm of traditional Moroccan elements creates a balanced aesthetic that is both refined and welcoming.
11. Embrace Architectural Curves and Courtyard Silhouettes
Architectural curves and flowing silhouettes are integral to Moroccan design. Incorporate arches and curved seating arrangements to soften the geometric rigidity of the hardscape. These graceful lines evoke the romantic imagery of Moroccan courtyards, where light dances through arched doorways and curved benches invite lingering conversations. Carefully using mosaic tiles and intricate patterns on exterior walls and floors can help accentuate the fluidity of your design. By adopting these gentle curves, you create an outdoor space that feels both expansive and intimate - a true reflection of Moroccan elegance and a perfect place for relaxation and entertaining.
12. Combine Tilework with Warm Wood and Sculptured Metals
Pairing tilework with warm wood and sculptured metals helps you take a multidimensional approach to a Moroccan style patio. Consider using outdoor furniture with natural wood finishes and mosaic tile with glass accents. The juxtaposition of organic wood with mosaic tiles creates an inviting atmosphere that is both polished and whimsical. Don’t forget to add metallic elements like ornate lanterns or benches to infuse a touch of modernity. This combination underscores the beauty of Moroccan tile while creating a layered design approach that allows each material to tell its own story.
13. Center the Patio Around a Tranquil Water Feature
A focal water feature is another popular Moroccan patio idea. Whether it’s a reflective pool, a cascading fountain, or a simple water wall, the gentle sound of water adds a meditative quality to any outdoor space. Be sure to surround the feature with terracotta tiles and mosaic accents to create a visual symphony of textures and colors. Water features naturally draw the eye and serve as a catalyst for conversation, inviting both guests and residents to pause and appreciate the serene ambiance.
A tranquil water feature surrounded by terracotta tiles and mosaic accents adds a meditative quality to a Moroccan patio. Image from Pinterest.
14. Incorporate Reflective Elements with Luminous Glass Tile
For an unexpected twist on tradition, consider using glass tile to introduce reflective elements into your patio design. These tiles, with their ability to capture and refract light, add a dynamic quality that transforms the space as the day shifts into night. Strategically place glass elements near seating areas or alongside water features to create subtle glimmers of bright colors that dance across the patio flooring. Using glass in this way not only highlights the elegance of Moroccan tile but also infuses the area with a modern edge, making it a distinctive conversation starter in any backyard setting.
15. Celebrate Moroccan Culture with Traditional Patterns
The final stop in our journey through Moroccan patio ideas celebrates the heritage of Moroccan culture with traditional patterns. Incorporate intricate designs that reference the history and artistry of Morocco into every element - from the layout of the floor to the decorative accents on furniture. In addition, utilize elements such as arches, mosaic tiles, and ornate lanterns to create a cohesive narrative that pays homage to the past while embracing modern design sensibilities.
Small Moroccan Garden Design Ideas
Small Moroccan garden design ideas can transform a compact outdoor space into an exotic retreat full of vibrant colors, intricate patterns, and lush greenery. By incorporating traditional elements like mosaic tiles, terracotta pots, and ornate lanterns, you can create an intimate setting that reflects the essence of Moroccan style. Opt for a central focal point, such as a small tiled fountain or a cozy seating area with colorful cushions and low wooden tables, to anchor the space and provide a place for relaxation.
More Moroccan Garden Ideas
Bringing Moroccan garden ideas into your backyard space will help transform your place into a colorful, charming retreat that will make you feel like you're on vacation. I've seen these everywhere on socials and I am very tempted to change my yard into a gorgeous oasis for the summer. So, I've asked designers how you can get this design aesthetic in your place.
Even though Moroccan garden ideas are colorful and bright, it’s important to make sure every element is intentional. To incorporate Moroccan decor elements without overwhelming the space, balance is key,” says Elissa Hall, founder of EDH Interiors. She recommends starting with a few statement pieces, such as a Moroccan rug or lanterns, and building around them with complementary accessories.
It’s not just the decor that you need to keep in mind when bringing in this backyard style - natural elements are super important, too. The idea of a Moroccan garden is to provide serenity, calmness, and pleasure, which is why plants and trees are an essential part of the style,” says Priyanshi Jain, interior designer and founder of Pixels and Spaces. She suggests opting for orange and lemon trees, as these will enhance the freshness of the space. You can also go for the hibiscus plant because its vibrant colors are visually appealing.
Picking the right outdoor lighting ideas plays a crucial role in Moroccan design, adding to the enchanting and mystical ambiance. Moroccan lanterns, with their detailed metalwork and colored glass, are ideal for outdoor spaces,” explains Tommy Mello, home improvement expert and founder of A1 Garage Door Service. Hang the best outdoor lanterns from tree branches, pergolas, or place them on tables and pathways. At night, the lanterns cast beautiful shadows and emit a warm, inviting glow,” he adds. For a more dramatic effect, Tommy says to consider a large, statement lantern as a focal point in your seating area.
Reaching for pretty pergola ideas will allow you to bring in both a functional backyard privacy element, as well as serve as a decorative feature in your Moroccan garden. Consider building a pergola with wooden beams and draping it with flowing fabrics or climbing plants like wisteria or jasmine,” explains Tommy. He continues, “This not only provides shade but also adds an element of privacy and intimacy. To enhance the ambiance even further, Tommy recommends hanging string lights from the pergola.
Adding water to your Moroccan garden will add beauty and help cool the air, making your outdoor space more comfortable. The Moroccan-style garden usually focuses on a centerpiece, which is why I recommend bringing in a water feature in your garden to draw the eye,” explains Priyanshi. Since the sound of running water is soothing to many people, you can opt for a tiered fountain,” she says. You could also go for a mosaic fountain to add to the overall vibe of the Moroccan style.
Bring in beauty and brilliance by choosing decorative pieces with sparkling metallic touches. Decorate your garden with metallic planters, showpieces, and lanterns to enhance the Moroccan look,” explains Priyanshi. Dot these around your backyard to create different interest points and to create the real feel of a journey throughout your Moroccan garden. These can also be paired up with beautiful colors.
Once you’ve decided what Moroccan garden decor pieces you want to bring in, it’s time to artfully put them together in order to create a stunning finished look. Mixing and matching different textures such as woven baskets, wooden furniture, and metal accents, can add depth without cluttering the space,” explains Elissa. In one of my designs, we used a large Moroccan rug as the focal point of the seating area. To complement it, we added a mix of patterned throw pillows and a few lanterns, creating a cohesive yet understated look,” she continues.
Create Your Own Oasis: Design a Moroccan Style Garden
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