5 key elements of Moroccan-style interior design
With its bold colours, distinctive textures and vibrant, inviting atmosphere, Moroccan-style interior design has become one of Australia’s favourite trends. Whether you’re looking to spruce up your space or do a complete design overhaul, Moroccan styling is a great way to liven up your home.
So, what is Moroccan styling and how can you include it in your interior design?
In this blog, we’ll show you five essential Moroccan-style interior design elements that you can use to bring your dream decor to life. Read on!
#1. Use rich, vibrant colours throughout your space
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Image: Unsplash
When it comes to adding colour to your room, Moroccan styling is all about going big. There are no firm rules for mixing colours in Moroccan-style interior design, but we recommend sticking with rich, bold colours including:
- Deep reds like burgundy, dark cherry and ruby
- Vibrant oranges like orange peel, dark orange and burnt orange
- Colourful pinks like salmon, coral, fuchsia and pastel pink
- Neutral shades like sand, taupe, beige and white
- Light and dark blues like sapphire, cyan, turquoise, azure blue, royal blue and indigo
- Light and dark greens like teal and emerald
- Bold, distinctive purples and violet shades
Bold accent walls are a common feature of Moroccan styling, so we suggest choosing your wall colours first. Then, start adding contrasting or complementary colours throughout the space, depending on your style preferences.
#2. Complement your walls with Moroccan rugs
Image: Pixabay
Moroccan rugs are an excellent accent choice that can add extra flair to your space. Generally made with hand-spun wool or synthetic materials, Moroccan rugs feature intricate, eye-catching and unique designs that make them stand out in any room.
While most Moroccan rugs feature bold, distinct colours, they can also incorporate soft neutrals like greys, off-whites and sandy yellows to create a calm, laid-back feel. Tribal, geometric and mosaic patterns are the most common designs for contemporary Moroccan rugs.
Moroccan rugs are also a great choice if you’re looking to experiment with layering rugs in your space. Rug layering is a form of interior styling that involves laying two or more different size rugs on top of each other to add depth to the space. These rugs can be made with complementary or contrasting colours to create the desired effect.
For extra style points, try hanging a rug to create an eye-catching feature wall for your Moroccan-style decor.
#3. Add Moroccan interior design elements like lamps and other accent pieces
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Image: Unsplash
Moroccan lamps are a staple of homes across the world and are a great way to add a vibrant feel to your space. Traditionally made with stained glass, Moroccan lamps feature intricate geometric patterns and mosaic-style designs that combine vivid colours including orange, teal, turquoise and blue. They also feature rustic-style metal frames including brass or copper and can incorporate mirror accents to add an extra touch of character.
Moroccan lamps are typically used in living rooms and bedrooms to add a cosy feel, and can be used on desks, bedside tables and coffee tables or hung from the ceiling. You can also replace your wall sconces with beautiful stained glass Moroccan lamps to complete the effect.
#4. Combine different textures and fabrics
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Image: Unsplash
Another feature of Moroccan-style interior design is combining multiple textures and materials to create a dynamic yet inviting area. Layering materials is a great way to spice up your space and add a warm, comforting and vibrant feel to any room. Layering multiple woven textures also adds depth and richness, making your room look more visually interesting and exciting.
Try adding a smooth silk throw to your cotton couch and finish the look with some textured mud-cloth cushions. You can also incorporate brass and other metals with stylish accessories and accents like lamps and art pieces. Whichever textures you choose to combine, be sure to choose rich, colourful options to keep your space feeling lively.
#5. Use mosaics and busy patterns throughout your space
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Image: Pexels
Moroccan styling is known for incorporating busy patterns that liven up the space. Try combining the following patterns on your walls, tiles, rugs and upholstery and see what works for your space.
- Mosaics
- Geometric patterns
- Tribal patterns
- Floral designs
Don’t be afraid to incorporate clashing designs in your space — the goal of Moroccan-style interior design is to create a more interesting space by grouping unique, intricate contrasting patterns together.
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FAQs about Moroccan-style interior design
What is Moroccan-style interior design?
Moroccan-style interior design is a warm, layered and expressive decor style inspired by traditional Moroccan homes and architecture. It often includes bold colours, patterned tiles, textured fabrics, decorative lighting and detailed rugs.
This style is known for feeling vibrant and inviting. It works well when you want a room to feel full of personality, comfort and visual interest.
What colours are used in Moroccan interior design?
Moroccan interior design often uses rich, warm colours such as deep red, burnt orange, coral, burgundy, teal, emerald, indigo and sapphire blue. These shades can be balanced with softer neutrals like beige, white, taupe and sand.
You can go bold with colourful walls and decor, or keep the base neutral and add colour through rugs, cushions, lamps and artwork. This makes Moroccan styling easy to adapt to your home.
How do I make my home look Moroccan without redecorating everything?
You can add Moroccan style without changing your whole room by starting with a few key pieces. A patterned Moroccan rug, colourful cushions, a textured throw or a decorative lamp can quickly change the feel of a space.
Focus on layers, colour and detail. Even small updates can bring warmth and character to a living room, bedroom or home office.
What patterns are common in Moroccan-style decor?
Moroccan-style decor often features geometric patterns, mosaic designs, tribal motifs and floral details. Diamonds, zigzags, arches and repeating tile-inspired shapes are especially common.
These patterns can appear on rugs, cushions, tiles, lamps, wall art and upholstery. Mixing patterns is part of the look, but it helps to repeat a few colours so the space still feels connected.
Why are Moroccan rugs popular in interior design?
Moroccan rugs are popular because they add texture, warmth and pattern in one simple piece. They can make a room feel more inviting while also helping to define areas in open-plan spaces.
They also suit a wide range of interiors, from boho and eclectic homes to modern and relaxed coastal spaces. Whether you choose a bold pattern or a softer neutral design, a Moroccan rug can bring depth and personality to your room.
What decor pieces help create a Moroccan-style room?
Decor pieces such as Moroccan lamps, patterned rugs, mosaic-style tiles, textured cushions and metal accent pieces can help create a Moroccan-style room. Brass, copper, stained glass and carved details also work well with this look.
You do not need to use every element at once. Start with a rug or lamp, then add smaller pieces like cushions, throws and ceramics to build the style naturally.
Are Moroccan interiors always colourful?
Moroccan interiors are often colourful, but they do not have to be bold in every room. You can create a Moroccan-inspired space with neutral tones, soft whites, sandy shades and natural textures.
For a calmer look, choose a neutral Moroccan rug and add subtle pattern through cushions or decor. This gives you the warmth and detail of Moroccan styling without making the room feel too busy.
How do I mix textures for a Moroccan-inspired space?
To mix textures in a Moroccan-inspired space, combine soft fabrics, woven details, metal accents and patterned rugs. For example, you could pair a cotton sofa with textured cushions, a wool-style rug and a brass or stained-glass lamp.
The goal is to make the room feel layered and welcoming. Keep your colour palette consistent so the different textures work together rather than competing for attention.
What is the easiest way to add Moroccan style to a room?
The easiest way to add Moroccan style is with a rug. A Moroccan rug can introduce colour, pattern and texture without the need for painting, new furniture or a full room update.
You can also add Moroccan-inspired cushions, lamps or wall art for extra detail. These simple changes can make your space feel warmer, more interesting and more styled.
Do Moroccan-style interiors suit small spaces?
Yes, Moroccan-style interiors can suit small spaces when you choose pieces carefully. A smaller patterned rug, a decorative lamp or a few textured cushions can add character without overwhelming the room.
For compact spaces, consider using lighter wall colours and adding bolder details through accessories. This keeps the room feeling open while still giving it a Moroccan-inspired look.
What materials are commonly used in Moroccan-style decor?
Moroccan-style decor often includes materials such as wool, cotton, silk, leather, brass, copper, stained glass, ceramic and timber. These materials help create the layered, textured feel the style is known for.
For rugs, wool and synthetic fibres are common options. Wool offers softness and natural texture, while synthetic materials can be a practical choice for busy homes.
Enhance your Moroccan-style decor with a stylish rug from our range
Looking to incorporate Moroccan interior design elements in your home? We’ve got you covered.
Moroccan rugs are an easy, hassle-free and beautiful way to add a touch of Moroccan flair to your living, bedroom, home office and more! Our range of stylish rugs features bold colours, unique patterns or comforting neutral tones designed to complement and enhance your existing decor.
Choose from stylish, luxurious wool fibres or durable, affordable synthetic materials and find the right fit for your space at Rug.com.au. Shop online today!
