Last Updated on February 25, 2025 by SampleBoard
Moroccan interior design showcases a rich tapestry of cultural influences, vibrant colors, and intricate patterns.
This unique style is characterized by its warm earthy tones, bold jewel colors, and an exquisite blend of traditional craftsmanship and modern sensibilities.
As it seems, each summer, the fashion industry’s most influential bloggers set sail to the same destination on their quest for exceptional photo shoot locations, networking, and job opportunities.
The links between fashion and interior design have always been strong.
As the influence of digital technologies and social media on our lifestyles keeps growing, they are becoming even more unbreakable.
Like never before, fashion trends are being adopted as a source of inspiration for interior designers and as must-know style guidelines, already tested and approved by society.
We, as interior designers, should look closer at this Marrakech phenomenon.
But is it truly a surprise?
Not at all.
We already discussed the Moroccan interior design trend last year while it was still in its roots, so we saw this coming.
Nonetheless, the glory of the trend’s development deserves to be explored and shine once again (at least) on the SampleBoard Blog.
This trend was not short-lived because it was surrounded by a dreamlike haze of historic architecture featuring a contemporary color palette and striking rustic-style locations that promised an eye-catching ambiance for photoshoots.
Moroccan interior design is characterized by a rich blend of vibrant colors, intricate patterns, and unique textures that reflect Morocco's cultural and architectural heritage.
This style draws inspiration from various influences, including Islamic, Arab, and Berber designs.
Here are some key elements of Moroccan-style interiors:
Moroccan interiors are known for their bold and rich color palette. Deep blues, vibrant reds, lush greens, and warm yellows are commonly used, often in intricate patterns and geometric designs.
Geometric patterns and intricate designs are hallmarks of the Moroccan interior design style. These can be seen in mosaic tiles, ornate carpets, and detailed textiles.
Traditional Moroccan patterns often include geometric shapes, arabesque designs, and floral motifs.
Luxurious textiles play a significant role in Moroccan interiors.
Look for plush rugs, colorful cushions, and intricately patterned curtains. Fabrics like silk and velvet are commonly used to add a touch of opulence.
Moroccan mosaic tiles, often referred to as zellige tiles, are distinctive.
These tiles create intricate patterns on floors, walls, and even furniture. They come in various colors and can be arranged in geometric designs.
Traditional Moroccan furniture often features intricate wood carvings. Common pieces include ornate cabinets, tables, and screens, which may be stained or painted in vibrant colors.
Moroccan architecture heavily influences the interior style.
Arches, domes, and intricate plasterwork, such as moucharabieh (wooden lattice), are common architectural elements. These details add a sense of grandeur and authenticity to the space.
Traditional Moroccan lanterns, often made of metal and colored glass, are a popular lighting choice. They cast beautiful patterns and contribute to the overall exotic ambiance.
Moroccan interiors often feature low-slung furniture with plush cushions, creating a comfortable and inviting seating area. This is conducive to the Moroccan custom of sitting on the floor for meals and socializing.
Decorative accessories such as brass or copper trays, ceramic pottery, and intricately designed mirrors are commonly used to enhance the overall aesthetic.
Incorporating plants and greenery, such as potted palms or succulents, adds a refreshing touch to the space and complements the vibrant colors of the decor.
Moroccan culture has profoundly influenced interior design, which is reflected in the distinctive features and elements found in Moroccan-style interiors.
Here are some ways in which Moroccan culture has shaped interior design:
Morocco has a rich Islamic heritage, which is evident in the intricate geometric patterns and designs prevalent in Moroccan interiors.
Islamic art, emphasizing geometric shapes and arabesque patterns, is a key influence on the tilework, carvings, and decorative elements in Moroccan design.
The Berber indigenous to North Africa have a strong cultural presence in Morocco.
Moroccan interiors often incorporate their artistic traditions, including handwoven textiles, tribal patterns, and craftsmanship.
With their distinctive designs and symbols, Berber rugs are a popular choice in Moroccan-style decor.
Morocco has a long history of skilled craftsmanship, which is evident in the handmade elements in Moroccan interiors.
Using traditional techniques and materials is a key aspect of Moroccan design, from intricate wood carvings to hand-painted tiles (zellige).
Moroccan mosaic tiles, known as zellige, are a hallmark of Moroccan architecture and design.
These colorful and intricately designed tiles adorn walls, floors, and furniture, creating a visually stunning and distinctive look. The mosaic patterns often draw inspiration from Islamic geometric art.
Arabic calligraphy, an art form, is sometimes incorporated into Moroccan design.
This can be seen in decorative elements such as wall art, textiles, and even furniture, where Arabic script is used as ornamentation.
The vibrant and bold color palette used in Moroccan interiors reflects Moroccan culture's lively and expressive nature.
Rich blues, deep reds, warm yellows, and lush greens are standard, creating a visually stimulating and inviting atmosphere.
Traditional Moroccan furniture is often characterized by low-slung seating, plush cushions, and intricately carved wooden elements.
Its design is influenced by both practical considerations and aesthetic traditions, reflecting the cultural preferences and lifestyle of the Moroccan people.
Morocco is known for its vibrant and colorful ceramics.
Hand-painted pottery, often featuring traditional patterns and motifs, is a popular choice for functional and decorative purposes in Moroccan interiors.
Islamic design principles, such as the avoidance of representational art and the emphasis on geometric and floral patterns, significantly impact Moroccan interior design.
This is evident in the ornate patterns in textiles, tiles, and architectural details.
Cultural customs and lifestyle also influence Moroccan interior design.
For example, the preference for communal living and social gatherings is reflected in the layout and arrangement of furniture and the creation of comfortable and inviting spaces for guests.
Overall, Moroccan interior design is a beautiful and intricate expression of the country's cultural heritage.
It blends elements of Islamic art, Berber traditions, and skilled craftsmanship to create a distinctive and inviting aesthetic.
When creating a Moroccan-style interior, it's essential to balance the various elements to achieve a cohesive and harmonious look.
The result is a warm and inviting space that reflects Morocco's rich cultural heritage.
Marrakech, an eclectic mix of authentic oriental mystery and trending millennial pink, becomes even more striking when dusky shades of pink, lilac, yellow, duck-egg blue, deep greens, and trendy Moroccan patterns are added to the picture.
All the elements for the ultimate style-driven wanderlust that keeps flooding our Instagram feeds, influencing our and our clients’ aesthetics in a way that will most definitely translate into the world of interiors.
It already did, but we promise you, this is just the beginning.
As the sun spirals its longest dance of the year today, we wish you a laid-back Summer ahead, full of bright and sunny smiles, fabulous outdoor spaces to enjoy, and, of course, design.
And if, by any chance, your road leads you to Marrakech this year, make sure to share your impressions and design inspiration with us.
With a mood board preferably. ;)
