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.
1 | Designer: Mimar InteriorsMuch of what can be described as Moroccan interior design has its origins in Moorish architecture.
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3 | Designer: Mimar InteriorsMoorish 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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5 | Designer: Mimar InteriorsSome 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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7 | Designer: Mimar InteriorsThis 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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9 | Designer: Mimar InteriorsThe 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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11 | Designer: Mimar InteriorsThe 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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13 | Designer: Mimar InteriorsIt is not unusual to find these types of arches in mosques. Here, they act as a lovely framing device for interesting art pieces.
14 | Designer: Mimar InteriorsThe following images are also from the designers at Mimar Interiors, but represent more modern and varied takes on Moroccan styles.
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16 | Designer: Mimar InteriorsColorful textiles, from upholstery to wall hangings, can indicated Moroccan influence as well.
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20 | Designer: Mimar InteriorsFor the layman, it may indeed by archways that are most indicative of Moroccan design.
21 | Designer: Mimar InteriorsAny room or home with a peaked doorway can immediately be categorized as having at least some influence from Moroccan design.
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23 | Designer: Mimar InteriorsAlthough 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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25 | Designer: Mimar InteriorsRiads are an extremely notable and gorgeous aspect of Moroccan design and architecture.
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27 | Designer: Mimar InteriorsThe term “riad” can refer either to a palatial house, or to the house’s interior garden or courtyard.
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29 | Designer: Mimar InteriorsA Moroccan riad is usually characterized by an elaborately carved skylights that were open to the air.
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31 | Designer: Mimar InteriorsThis 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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34 | Designer: Mimar InteriorsHere, the use of interior plantings in the center of the room is clearly a reference to the riad design.
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36 | Designer: Mimar InteriorsIt 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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40 | Designer: Mimar InteriorsApart 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.
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50 | Designer: Mimar InteriorsIn modern Moroccan design, colorful cushions on the floor have been replaced with cozy sofas that sit low to the ground but still offer support.
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68 | Designer: Mimar InteriorsThis skylight is a more traditional example of the riad design.
69 | Designer: Nabeel RiazMuqarans are another common and intricate element included in many Moroccan designs.
70 | Designer: Nabeel RiazThis types of decorations can be made from brick, stone, stucco, or wood and common in palaces and mosques as well as luxury homes.
71 | Designer: Nabeel RiazThe ceiling here is a subtle reference to this style while managing to blend into an entirely modern space.
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73 | Designer: Nabeel RiazThe elaborate archways in this room defy categorization, but are clearly Moroccan-inspired with splashes of lovely turquoise.
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77 | Designer: Amine El HammoumiThe floral patterns in this Moroccan space from designer Amine El Hammoumi give it a feminine bent.
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80 | Designer: Amine El HammoumiAlso from Amine El Hammoumi, this loft uses intricate carvings and rich textiles to evoke the Moroccan spirit.
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83 | Designer: Kenan OsmanThis home, from designer Kenan Osman, is a sleek and modern take on the Moroccan style.
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85 | Designer: Kenan OsmanThe tilework and archways bring the lush history of Moroccan design into the modern space.
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88 | Designer: Kenan OsmanThis final home is one of the most elaborate and fuses both classical and Moroccan elements.
89 | Designer: Kenan OsmanThe water feature room divider and detailed ceiling could easily be Moroccan and even riad-inspired.
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