Moroccan interior design is all about creating an exotic and luxurious escape right in your own home. It’s easy to identify a Moroccan-style home at a glance: rich colors, arched doorways, arabesque motifs, geometric-patterned tiles on everything from fireplaces to backsplashes. This style is inspired by the rich colors and patterns of Morocco, as well as the country's iconic architecture.
Moroccan design is all about color, texture & fluid lines. It is a unique blend of North African, Mediterranean & Islamic styles, creating a distinctive look which has inspired artists & designers all over the world. This fusion creates a warm, layered aesthetic that pairs detailed patterns with earthy textures and natural materials.
If you can't get to Morocco in person, bring some of the region’s magic into your home with these Moroccan interior design tips. With just a few easy changes, you'll be able to transform your living space into an oasis of North African style.
Image credit: Pinterest
Inside 3 Colorful, Maximalist Mediterranean Homes in Spain & Morocco
Signature Hallmarks of Moroccan Design
Moroccan interiors are known for their striking geometric patterns, which add depth and character to any space. You can incorporate these patterns with tile, of course, be it a zellige tile mosaic or intricately patterned cement tile. Or, you may look to patterned rugs and intricately designed wallpaper.
Read also: The Allure of Blue and White Tile
As you home in on pattern, look for symmetrical designs and repeating motifs inspired by Islamic art. These patterns play especially well with accent walls, tabletops, and cushions to create visual interest. Don’t shy away from mixing patterns, either - maintaining a cohesive color palette can help ensure harmony.
Zellij is a standard decorative pattern that can be found on tiles and is very geometric, resembling stars and arrows. Such patterns may be combined with rich textures like woven rugs, embroidered textiles, and carved wood. Patterns fall into three core categories for the most part - florals, geometrics, and calligraphy.
Key Elements to Incorporate:
- Islamic Geometric Patterns: Some of the readily recognized features of Moroccan design include Islamic geometric patterns, vivid colors, and zillij tiles.
- Vivid Colors: Moroccan design incorporates bold colors, such as fuchsia, royal blue, deep purple, and vibrant red, with the soothing neutral colors of the desert, such as sand, taupe, beige, and shades of white. Bold accent walls are common in this design style.
- Zillij Tiles: Zillij tiles are terra cotta tile-work of enamel chips set in plaster to create mosaic geometric shapes.
Textiles, Textures, and Materials
When it comes to Mediterranean-inspired interior design, the materials and fabrics you use are just as important as the colors and patterns. Look for luxurious fabrics like silk or velvet, and rich materials like handmade ceramics, wood look tiles, and metals. These elements will help to create a space that feels both opulent and comfortable.
Textiles in Moroccan interior design drape & flow. Silks, gauze-like fabrics, & drapery sheers are commonly used to divide rooms, to frame windows & to throw across furniture. Textiles are also important as floor coverings, often seen in woven kilim rugs.
Texture is important in Moroccan design. Rough stucco walls, smooth silken tapestries, and rugs are just a few textures found in Moroccan interior design.
Read also: Morocco's Blue Pearl
Layer textiles for warmth and visual interest. Start with handwoven rugs, such as Beni Ourain or Kilim, and then add cushions, poufs, and throws that feature intricate embroidery or tassels.
Complementing the Beni Ourain rug above is another Moroccan classic: a fringed wedding blanket. You’re no doubt familiar with Beni Ourain rugs. They are not the only style of rug that exemplifies Moroccan style, however. Equally plush are boucherouite rugs. These rag rugs, traditionally woven of recycled wool, cotton, and other fibers, tend to be brilliant in hue and often sport asymmetrical patterns. And then there are all manner of Moroccan kilims.
Rugs and Carpets
Rugs and carpets are another important element of Moroccan inspired interior design. As you step into this stunning entryway, you can't help but be transported to another world. The bold Moroccan Star and Cross Blue Etched Marble Tile immediately catches your eye, and the complementary decor accents add just the right amount of exotic appeal. We love how the natural wooden console table creates a sense of balance, making this space both inviting and intriguing.
Image credit: Pinterest
Furniture and Accessories
Moroccan furnishings often feature intricate carvings, filigree work, and beautiful tile mosaics. When it comes to Moroccan inspired interior design, the furniture you use is just as important as the other elements at play. Look for pieces that are both comfortable and stylish.
Read also: Men's Moroccan Fashion
Choose furniture that is made from rich, luxurious materials like wood and metal. Furniture in Moroccan design is a combination of delicately-carved wooden pieces and plush over-stuffed upholstered ones including couches & pillows. Add plush rugs and cushions to create a space that is truly inviting.
Poufs have been omnipresent in Moroccan homes for centuries, and little wonder: They’re so versatile. The poufs most closely associated with Morocco are round and made of leather, often with top stitching or tooled patterns. Not only are they versatile (and gorgeous), but leather poufs can easily be moved from room to room as well.
Looking to add a touch of Morocco to your home décor? Bold accessories are key! Choose items that are both colorful and well-designed with a bit of eclectic flair. From vibrant reds to rich blues, Eastern design is all about bold, beautiful colors, as we’re sure you caught on to by now. Make sure to have fun with it!
Lighting and Lanterns
More is more when it comes to Moroccan lanterns. The fatous hanging from the portico and the smaller lantern tucked among the plants bring a Moroccan touch to the suzani prints and the Chinese table, making this backyard a veritable melting pot of styles and influences. Lighting is an important part of Moroccan design, and traditional lanterns and lamps are often used to create a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Accent pieces also reflect the Islamic influences on Moroccan design. Lamps are often hung from the ceiling & are commonly made of metals, such as brass & copper. Other popular Moroccan style accents include mirrors, often framed in metal or wooden with arabesque design.
Image credit: Pinterest
Tiles and Patterns
Arabesque-shaped tile is a stunning way to elevate your home decor. The details are what make these elegant tiles truly special. You can also find luck with patterns on Moroccan-inspired tiles, which make a great addition to any home’s bathroom, living room, or kitchen as an accent wall or statement floor design.
When it comes to Mediterranean interior design, there is one element that always stands out: bold patterned mosaic ceramic tiles. These vibrant and eye-catching tiles are often used to create stunning backsplashes, floors, and walls. And while they may seem like a bit of a challenge to work with, they can actually be quite versatile.
They can be used on both the floors and the walls, and come in a wide range of colors, patterns, and materials. When choosing tiles for your space, look for those that are colorful and elegantly designed. You can also use more muted colors like blush pink or golden yellow.
Bathrooms are often seen as being functional spaces rather than places to be stylish, but there's no reason why your bathroom can't be both practical and stylish. One way to add style to your bathroom is to install patterned floor tiles like our Moroccan Star and Cross Black Tiles. Patterned tiles can help to create a visually stunning space, and they can also be used to complement other design elements in the room.
Examples of Tile Use:
- This bathroom gives a Mediterranean spin on an interior design classic with its bold black and white tile floors. Using our Black and White Star and Cross marble floor tiles, the space is spacious and stunning.
- The Floral Dream Bianco Carrara and Thassos Tile is a classic work of art that perfectly embodies the avant-garde spirit of Moroccan inspired kitchens with its filigree pattern.
- We love how our Moroccan Star and Cross Crema Etched Marble Tile creates a statement attraction that pops.
- For example, this gorgeous shower design uses our Moroccan Star and Cross Antique Etched Marble Tile to create a captivating oasis. Instead of going overboard with patterns and colors, this design keeps things simple and elegant.
- This beautiful bathroom uses our La Riviera Rose Rose Pink Ceramic tile as a shower accent wall. The result is a truly beautiful story arch for a Middle Eastern design.
- We love the way that our Blue and White Star and Cross tile looks as a backsplash in this outdoor kitchen. The tile's design perfectly complements the plants and other elements in the space.
Colors and Scents
One of the most important aspects of Moroccan inspired interior design is the use of bold, rich colors. These colors are often seen in traditional Mediterranean textiles and patterns. Gem tones create an elegant atmosphere that’s Moroccan approved. Aim for jewel tone blues, ruby reds, or ripened dark oranges to make a full impact and appeal.
Even more than colors or sounds, scents evoke a mood or a memory. The Moroccan olfactory palette is rich in cinnamon, cloves, ginger, and other spices, sweetened with figs and roses.
Bringing the Outdoors In
Plants and flowers are the perfect finishing touches for a Mediterranean inspired space. They can help to add a touch of color and life to your room. Choose plants that are bold and vibrant, and arrange them in beautiful vases or baskets.
Open courtyards filled with lush gardens and tiled water fountain are a mainstay in Moroccan architectural style.
Moroccan homes often blur the lines between indoor and outdoor spaces, creating a seamless connection with nature. Courtyards, patios, and rooftop terraces are integral, serving as relaxing retreats adorned with lush plants, fountains, and comfortable seating.
Modern Interpretations
While contemporary Moroccan design is exciting in its own right, this article focuses on the more traditional elements-the kinds of details you’d find in a riad courtyard or a craftsman’s workshop.
Today's next generation of Moroccan designers are combining the rich craft heritage with an understanding of modern design & technology, along with an openness to reference points beyond Morocco's borders. Now a new type of product is emerging & we are excited for the future!
With these tips, you can easily bring the exotic beauty of Morocco into your home through interior design. Just remember to have fun with it and add your own personal touch to make the space truly your own.
Popular articles:
tags: #Moroccan
