Want to create a exotic, colourful space that feels warm and culturally rich? Moroccan decor is the way to go. With intricate patterns, bold colours and luxurious textures Moroccan style can turn any room into a haven. In this we’ll take you through every step to bring Moroccan magic into your home whatever your style. Ready to get started? Let’s go!
What is Moroccan Style?
Moroccan style decorating combines natural elements, rich colours and ornate details to create a look that’s distinct and eclectic. It’s influenced by African, Arabian and European styles making it a true mash up of design. Moroccan living rooms are a design inspiration for interior designers worldwide and showcase traditional decor elements that are used in modern designs.
Expect tangerine, purple, blue and red jewel tones with metallic gold and silver accents. Textured fabrics, intricate furniture and potted plants are the key elements while soft lighting sets the mood. It’s about creating a warm, luxurious space that’s both traditional and creative.
Moroccan Style Living Room
When designing a Moroccan inspired living room we want to focus on comfort and colour. Plush textured pillows, overstuffed poufs and patterned pillows are perfect for setting a warm and inviting tone. A mix of bold patterns and soft textures adds depth without overwhelming the space.
Moroccan pillows can double as stylish bedding and Moroccan floor cushions when grouped together on the floor. To bring the room to life consider Moroccan lanterns, ornate furniture and floor cushions for function and style. For warmth and texture use a shag rug and finish with jewel toned throw pillows and intricate wall hangings. The aim is to create a layered space that feels luxurious and relaxed.
Moroccan Style Bathroom
Turn your bathroom into a spa like retreat with a splash of Moroccan luxury. Start with a statement clawfoot tub and add a waterproof Moroccan rug to ground the space. White garden stools and wicker chairs are functional and stylish for towel storage or decor displays.
Use Moroccan style tiles for a backsplash for elegance and colour. Gold accents on mirrors and fixtures will add glamour and a Moroccan inspired mirror frame will finish the look. The aim is to create a calm and elegant space with a bit of indulgence.
Moroccan Decor Essentials
Moroccan decor is all about bold patterns, intricate details and luxurious furniture. Textiles are the heart of it all—rugs, pillows and throws add warmth and softness. Patterned textiles are the key to a vibrant and warm living space and are used in both modern and traditional decor.
Potted plants and natural wood pieces bring in an earthy element to balance out the ornate. Gold and silver accents add a touch of luxury and hand carved furniture and decorative accessories give a truly Moroccan feel.
Textiles and Patterns in Moroccan Decor
Moroccan decor is famous for its rich textiles and patterns which is the key to creating a warm and welcoming space. Traditional Moroccan textiles include intricately woven rugs, plush throw pillows and vibrant fabrics with bold patterns. These patterns often feature geometric shapes, floral motifs and Arabic calligraphy which are typical of Moroccan design.
In Moroccan decor textiles are used to add depth, texture and visual interest to a room. For example a Moroccan style living room might feature a plush area rug with a bold geometric pattern and throw pillows in matching colours and patterns. The use of textiles and patterns in Moroccan decor also creates a sense of warmth and hospitality making it the perfect style for homes that value comfort and cosiness.
Some of the textiles and patterns used in Moroccan decor are:
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Beni Ourain rugs: Minimalist designs and soft plush pile.
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Kilim rugs: Flat woven rugs with bold geometric patterns and bright colours.
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Moroccan tiles: Small intricately patterned tiles used to create mosaics and decorative accents.
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Embroidered fabrics: Embroidered fabrics used in traditional Moroccan clothing are used in Moroccan decor to add a touch of luxury.
Lighting for a Moroccan Inspired Space
Lighting is one of the easiest ways to add Moroccan style to a space. Start with Moroccan lanterns which have intricate designs and soft light that create a mystical ambiance. Pendant lights with bold patterns or coloured glass are also a great option.
Table lamps with metalwork details add a more subtle but equally stylish touch. String lights with coloured beads are whimsical and candles and lanterns scattered around the room bring warmth and coziness.
Colour Schemes for a Moroccan Style Space
Moroccan interiors are famous for their bold and vibrant colour schemes. Jewel tones like tangerine, purple, blue and red are your go to colours. But balance is key – use a neutral background like white or beige to let these colours shine without overwhelming the space.
Gold and silver accents will elevate the decor and mixing warm and cool tones will create harmony. For a more subtle approach try a monochromatic colour scheme with different shades of one colour.
Shapes and Forms in Moroccan Design
Moroccan design is full of shapes and forms which are inspired by traditional Islamic architecture and geometric patterns. Some of the shapes and forms used in Moroccan design are:
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Arches: Arches are a part of Moroccan architecture and are used in doorways, windows and other decorative elements.
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Domes: Domes are another feature of Moroccan architecture and are used in ceilings and other decorative elements.
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Geometric shapes: Geometric shapes like triangles, squares and circles are used in Moroccan design to create intricate patterns and motifs.
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Floral motifs: Floral motifs like the arabesque are used in Moroccan design to add a touch of luxury.
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Intricate carvings: Intricate carvings like those found in traditional Moroccan woodwork are used in Moroccan design to add a touch of elegance.
These shapes and forms are combined in creative ways to create beautiful decorative elements like intricately carved wooden doors, ornate metal lanterns and colourful tile mosaics. By incorporating these shapes and forms into your decor you can add Moroccan style and elegance to your home.
Mixing Moroccan with other styles
Moroccan decor goes well with other styles. Combine it with bohemian elements for a free-spirited, eclectic look. For a modern touch mix Moroccan pieces with midcentury modern furniture. Using large and small versions of the same style of Moroccan hanging lanterns will enhance the overall look of a themed room.
If you prefer a more minimal approach try Scandinavian style with Moroccan accents – think light wood with bold, intricate textiles. Moroccan decor can also be mixed with industrial style for a more edgy, modern look.
Adding Moroccan Accents to your space
Sometimes a few well placed accents can make all the difference. Moroccan inspired throw pillows and blankets can transform a room instantly. Wall hangings and tapestries with intricate patterns add elegance and texture.
Moroccan style rugs bring warmth and lanterns and pendant lights are a quick way to add Moroccan charm. Decorative accessories like vases, bowls and ornate mirrors will complete the look with minimal effort.
Moroccan Inspired Outdoor Space
Moroccan decor isn’t just for indoors – your outdoor space can be a haven of comfort and style too. Start with outdoor poufs and ottomans for seating and layer Moroccan rugs and throws for texture and warmth.
Lighting is important here too. String lights or lanterns will create a magical ambiance after dark. Don’t forget to add Moroccan inspired vases and planters with lush greenery to complete the look.
How to add Moroccan style to your home
Start small and build up your Moroccan decor over time. Add one or two statement pieces like a Moroccan rug or lantern and see how they look. Then add more texture, colour and accents as you go.
Remember you can mix Moroccan style with other design elements – this will create a unique, eclectic look that feels personal and curated. Moroccan decor is all about boldness, warmth and character so don’t be afraid to try.