About Moroccan Decor
Moroccan style has many different influences. It features a mixture of the original Berber settlers, influences from later Arab settlers and of course from the traders of other nearby African nations as well as Spain. The colors and style are reminiscent of Morocco's surroundings, its climate and Islamic culture.
Geography and Cultural Influences
Morocco lies in Northern Africa. The country is located on the edges of Africa, next to Europe, and has served as a crossroads for Portuguese, Spanish, African and Arab cultures. On one side of Morocco lies the Atlantic Ocean, and on the other is the Mediterranean Sea, while to the south is the Western Sahara Desert. Among the many civilizations to rule Morocco is the Roman Empire. When the Roman Empire declined in the 5th century, the Vandals and the Byzantine Greeks all laid claim to Morocco. In the 7th century, the Islamic conquest led to Arab settlers in Morocco and Islam being adopted by the local Berber people of Morocco.
Color
The colors used in Moroccan interiors are often bright, vibrant hues. Often colors are taken from Morocco's surrounding environment: deep blues and greens like the Mediterranean Sea and hot oranges and reds from the Sahara desert. Colors found in Moroccan cooking are also used in Moroccan décor such as the deep purple of eggplant and the bright orange of saffron.
Furniture
Furniture used in Moroccan décor such as sofas and coffee tables are set low to the ground so that diners may sit on the floor. Dark, exotic, sturdy furniture can be used to create a Moroccan look. In addition, a person looking to recreate the Moroccan décor style should look for furniture pieces made of wrought iron, with mosaic inlays. Mosaic is often used in both tabletops and in mirrors in Morocco.
Fabrics
Moroccan home décor features a great deal of bright fabrics which contrast with the dark, heavy furniture. Gauzy fabrics that hang all the way to the floor can be used for window treatments while fabric thrown on chests and chairs can create an art piece for the room. Moroccan décor usually features a variety of contrasting fabrics such as leather in the furniture, silken throw pillows and cushions and intricately decorated rugs.
Lighting and Accessories
Lighting is also important in Moroccan décor. To truly create the Moroccan interior look, a decorator should look for Moroccan lampshades. These are often metal shades featuring ornate stained glass and bead designs. Chandeliers and sconces also help to create the look. In addition to lighting, accessories are also important. Consider adding a Moroccan-style mirror, or Moroccan tea glasses made in colorful hues with gold designs to really help create the look.
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