Let's Talk About Moroccan Design

Are you #teamneutrals or #teamcolor when it comes to design from Morocco?

I recently chatted with many rug dealers from Morocco at Domotex (rug fair), which got me around to thinking about my own design memories from Marrakesh. In 2010, I taught a group of wonderful American ladies for a week at Peacock Pavillions for ACE camps. I loved being there, the overall vibe was so high, so incredible, I’d gladly return at some point only this time, to relax with a few girlfriends and get lots of spa treatments. With Moroccan design on my mind, I thought I’d pull together a list of some common features of rooms in Moroccan design and go a little more depth for those of you who are curious…

Photos above: Peacock Pavillions

The focus on Moroccan design has waned since 2006-2015 when everyone was booking trips there and carting home straw bags with sequins and silk slippers, yet it’s still a popular travel destination and rightly so. The influences of Morocco can still be felt in interior design today in 2023, though much more subtly, and mostly in interiors that are more global and well-traveled, in homes that consider themselves more bohemian or nomadic. Also, in minimalist design as you can see below in these two well-edited souks below.

Photos above: Riad42 Marrakech

Moroccan interior design is known for its vibrant colors, intricate patterns, and rich textures, influenced by a blend of African, Mediterranean, and Middle Eastern cultures. It’s characterized by its luxurious and exotic atmosphere, creating a warm and inviting environment that is both exotic and elegant, reflecting the country's rich cultural heritage and love of craftsmanship.

BUT….

Above Photography: Riad dar Palm

In addition to the colorful design found there, some Moroccan design has become more subdued and monochromatic over the years.

You can see examples of this in the photos above and below from these lovely boutique hotels in Marrakesh.

I’ve watched this evolution occur in the past decade. Many international designers regularly commission handmade works from the souks of Marrakesh along with parts of the Atlas mountains where many traditional rugs are commissioned or sourced. They are sourcing for their collections or clients. Many of them are from countries like Scandinavia who appreciate a minimalist aesthetic, with colors muted or monochromatic. Their influence has definitely influenced the local design culture so design coming from this past of Northern Africa is no longer just bold and full-on, but some is very neutral (though graphic still) and minimal.

Photography: Marrakesh Medina Riad

Here is a mini design lesson for you in case you’re curious about some of the hallmarks of Moroccan room decor.

Common features of Moroccan rooms:

1. Color: Moroccan interiors are often decorated with colorful textiles like rugs, curtains, and cushions. These textiles feature bold geometric, floral, or calligraphy patterns and are often made from wool or cotton. Colors in Moroccan interiors are typically bold and bright, with a focus on jewel tones like deep reds, blues, and greens. There is a lot of black and cream. Muted shades like beige and brown may also be used as a backdrop for more vibrant accents.

2. Carved woodwork: You can find intricate carved woodwork, including furniture, screens, and decorative details like doorways and window frames.

3. Mosaic tiles: There are many beautiful mosaic tiles, particularly in bathrooms, entryways, and kitchens. Tiles are often brightly colored and arranged in intricate patterns.

4. Lanterns and lamps: Lighting is an important part of Moroccan design, and traditional lanterns and lamps are often used to create a warm and inviting atmosphere.

5. Furniture is often ornate and intricate, with details like carved wood, inlaid metal, and brightly colored fabrics. Low seating like poufs and floor cushions are common, creating a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere.

6. Plants and natural elements: Plants and natural elements like stones and shells are often used to decorate Moroccan interiors, creating a sense of harmony and balance with the natural world.

7. Patterns are often intricate and geometric, with motifs like stars, diamonds, and quatrefoils commonly used in tiles, textiles, and furniture. 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. My favorite are the geometrics, what about you?

8. Accessories often reflect the country's love of artisanal craftsmanship, with a focus on handmade items like ceramic plates, pots, slippers (babouches and belghas), bags, bowls, Berber jewelry, lanterns, and woven baskets. You can often find natural materials like wood, leather, wool, stone, and clay. Lots of metal. These items may be used to add texture and personality to the space. Side note: I remember a decade ago, everyone wanted a clay tangine in their home, a leather pouffe, a Moroccan wedding blanket for their bed, and a pair of sequined Babouches. Do you remember that too?

Are you a fan of Moroccan design? Do you like the bold, colorful more traditional colors and patterns that are beaded, layered, and more full-on or do you prefer a more minimalist approach with subdued colors?