5 Ways To Achieve A Contemporary Moroccan Interior
A marriage of style, textures, smells and colours, Morocco really is a place where your senses are heightened in the best possible way.
Today we wanted to share some of our favourite ways to take a slice of the Northern African country and integrate it into your own home, from the kitchen through to the bathroom.
The key to a Moroccan inspired interior is the less formal, the better. The space needs to feel like you’ve built it up over time, collecting treasures from your travels and having a much more relaxed approach to living as opposed to a strict design.
CHOOSING COLOURS
Despite what you may think of Moroccan interiors being shades of rust and browns, teamed with jewelled tones – and yes there certainly are spaces like this – there’s also a much more chic thread running throughout the design story with a range of light luxe neutrals, complemented with different metallics and varying textures.
FURNITURE
Against the lighter, more muted colour palette stands dark, rich woods teamed with metal in a contrasting juxtaposition.
Think tray tables, which can be used to serve mint tea on in the evenings, low seating, including floor cushions to add to the informal entertaining, and artisan detailing such as cut-out hand-carved panelling.
TILES
Nothing says Moroccan flair than beautiful ornate tiles. Intricate patterns and mosaics are repeated across a larger surface such as a kitchen splash back and bathroom flooring, while colour palettes steer between monochrome and teal, green, blue and yellow.
A tile you may have likely seen around but not known much about is the Zellige (pronounced Zell-e-ga) tile. Also known as Zilij or Zelij tiles, they’re glazed in a wide range of vibrant colours, I’ve seen a huge surge in demand and I’ve seen them popping up in many homes. A traditionally handcrafted tile made from clay extracted from the Fez region in Morocco. A glass enamel is applied to the surface and then melted to give a gorgeous irregular, almost shimmering finish that’s full of life and character.
Each Zellige tile is hand-molded, hand-cut, and hand-glazed, so therefore all Zellige tiles are unique. Tiles will have natural tonal variance which further adds to the relaxed and refined natural beauty and charm.
If you like the Zellige look, then I have a few places for you to check out. For traditionally handmade tiles Otto Tiles + London Encaustic. Porcelain Superstore offer a more competitively priced options, and remember HomeEnvy Bootcamp members get trade discounts at Porcelain Superstore so we can help you save more.
Perhaps changing tiles isn’t an option for you, if you’re looking to add a little Moroccan touch to your rental, Etsy has a fantastic range of temporary stick on tiles in a mix of prints – all of which wouldn’t look out of place in the heart of the souks.
SOFT FURNISHINGS
Moroccan rugs have become a bit of an ‘it’ piece over the last couple of years with a high percentage of British retailers emulating the look themselves.
Authentic Moroccan rugs are hand crafted and are right a lot more expensive to purchase and ship over. They are mostly known for their geometric designs, especially on the now famous Berber style rug.
If you’re looking to get the look on a budget, check out LaRedoute for a great selection of Moroccan-inspired rugs.
LIGHTING
Set against the neutral backdrop with splashes of metals and tactile fabrics, sits low hanging lighting and flickering candles.
To achieve this look, invest in metal pendants with laser-cut detailing, lanterns of various heights placed on the floor, and ornate glass and metal chandeliers. The ambiance needs to be sultry, welcoming and relaxed.
If you’re in the initial stages of working on your next interior design project, our free downloadable planner is an essential part of your kit. Just pop your details in the boxes below and receive your copy in your inbox within minutes.
[activecampaign form=91]
And if you’re looking for a little more guidance when it comes to creating your dream home, why not join HomeEnvy Bootcamp – a one-stop shop for all things interior design, including masterclasses on creating your dream space, 20% trade discounts, access to professional interior designers, weekly design packs, and a private community of like-minded individuals.
