Moroccan Style Interior Design

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Situated in Northern Africa, as one of the only three countries to have a coastline along both the Atlantic and Mediterranean, Morocco has often been the subject of lush and romantic fantasy. The country is extremely diverse, with residents that are Arab, Berber, and many European and sub-Saharan African immigrants. The interior design that originates in Morocco reflects this diverse area, rich in cultural traditions and history. Characterized by intricate carvings, arched doorways, and colorful fabrics, it should come as no surprise that Moroccan interior design has become quite popular around the world. The images in this post are representative of some of the most stunning and vibrant modern examples of Moroccan interiors, both in and outside of the country itself.

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Designer: Mimar Interiors

Much of what can be described as Moroccan interior design has its origins in Moorish architecture.

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Designer: Mimar Interiors

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Designer: Mimar Interiors

Moorish architecture was quite common and continues to be seen throughout the Arab regions of North Africa as well as on the Iberian Peninsula.

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Designer: Mimar Interiors

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Designer: Mimar Interiors

Some of the most common characteristics of Moorish architecture including arches, domes, courtyards, and decorative tile work, all of which are well represented in the homes included here.

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Designer: Mimar Interiors

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Designer: Mimar Interiors

This particular house is rich with Moroccan details, but also draws inspirations from the simplicity of Scandinavian design, despite the fact that the home is actually situated in Doha, Qatar.

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Designer: Mimar Interiors

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Designer: Mimar Interiors

The design comes from the Mimar Interiors, and incorporates the stunning colors and contrast that are so common in Moroccan-inspired designs.

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Designer: Mimar Interiors

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Designer: Mimar Interiors

The horseshoe arches are extremely common in Moroccan design and are characterized by a large round arch atop a straighter, narrower doorway (or in this case, indentation). In fact, they may also be referred to as Moorish arches (or keyhole arches).

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Designer: Mimar Interiors

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Designer: Mimar Interiors

It is not unusual to find these types of arches in mosques. Here, they act as a lovely framing device for interesting art pieces.

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Designer: Mimar Interiors

The following images are also from the designers at Mimar Interiors, but represent more modern and varied takes on Moroccan styles.

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Designer: Mimar Interiors

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Designer: Mimar Interiors

Colorful textiles, from upholstery to wall hangings, can indicated Moroccan influence as well.

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Designer: Mimar Interiors

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Designer: Mimar Interiors

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Designer: Mimar Interiors

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Designer: Mimar Interiors

For the layman, it may indeed by archways that are most indicative of Moroccan design.

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Designer: Mimar Interiors

Any room or home with a peaked doorway can immediately be categorized as having at least some influence from Moroccan design.

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Designer: Mimar Interiors

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Designer: Mimar Interiors

Although not the most common arch found in Moroccan interior design, this equilateral archway, combined with the surrounding interior elements, is certainly notable.

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Designer: Mimar Interiors

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Designer: Mimar Interiors

Riads are an extremely notable and gorgeous aspect of Moroccan design and architecture.

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Designer: Mimar Interiors

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Designer: Mimar Interiors

The term “riad” can refer either to a palatial house, or to the house’s interior garden or courtyard.

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Designer: Mimar Interiors

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Designer: Mimar Interiors

A Moroccan riad is usually characterized by an elaborately carved skylights that were open to the air.

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Designer: Mimar Interiors

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Designer: Mimar Interiors

This decidedly modern bathroom uses the Moroccan style as a jumping off point for contemporary decor. The archway, for instance, is a classic example of the Moroccan look, but instead of using brightly colored tile mosaics, here we see flashy silver.

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Designer: Mimar Interiors

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Designer: Mimar Interiors

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Designer: Mimar Interiors

Here, the use of interior plantings in the center of the room is clearly a reference to the riad design.

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Designer: Mimar Interiors

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Designer: Mimar Interiors

It is interesting to note that the concept of riads was originally due to Muslim influence. Since women were generally not allowed outside of the home alone, they could relax and enjoy an interior garden such as a riad without compromising their faith and modesty.

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Designer: Mimar Interiors

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Designer: Mimar Interiors

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Designer: Mimar Interiors

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Designer: Mimar Interiors

Apart from religious issues, a riad also provides climate control for homes in areas like Morocco that can be punishingly hot. The open air and water features commonly found there can have a pleasant cooling effect on the rest of the home.