Moroccan inspired furnishings and accessories provide a way of furnishing in a rich, colorful and exotic style. It is one of the styles that are part of the trend towards a more eclectic and ethnic inspired home, one that is inspired by faraway places and even faraway times.

Moroccan Style: Background

Morocco, or Marrakesh is located in North Africa and has held a strong fascination for the West with its intricate, handmade wood carving, worked leather, brass and silver utensils, and painted tiles for the floor and walls.

There are several influences in Moroccan design, and because of the nation's history, they draw from both European and Middle Eastern sources. However, the dominant influences in Moroccan architecture are classic Spanish and Moorish. You will find elements of both in Moroccan furniture and home accessories as well.

Moroccan style as we know it today is a resplendent style that takes inspiration from the rich, warm colors, handicrafts and architecture of that tiny country. However it is a modernized version of the traditional patterns and motifs. It is a simplified and more restrained version of the original, more ornate style.

Distinguishing Features:

The features that distinguish this style are:

• Jewel toned and spicy color
• Richly textured and ornamental materials
• Geometric patterns
• Intricate carving on wood and metal
• Layered look through rugs, pillows, curtains and canopies
• Handmade objects and hand-embroidered fabrics

Decorating in a Moroccan Style

This style is for you if you have a love for the exotic and the romance of faraway places and times.

It is relatively easy to go overboard, so start with a few touches of carved accessories or embroidered pillows. Use larger pieces such as room dividers or headboards for the bed as focal points. You can do so by reducing clutter around them for a more modern interpretation.

Whether you are planning to furnish entirely in this style or use a few touches in your decor here are some ways you can incorporate some elements:

• Rich Color: Color in Moroccan style of decorating will be rich. Gold, paprika, saffron, turquoise and green are some of the colors you will find. They can be categorized as jewel tones, drawing inspiration from its sands, sunsets and the Atlantic ocean accented with white or black.
• Pattern: There is an abundant use of geometric and floral patterns. Not only will you find it on embroidered or woven fabrics and rugs, but also tiles. These tiles can be used on the floor or on walls.
• Use of Metal: Brass and silver are extensively. You can find them in utensils, trays, lighting, and table tops. They are also used to provide accents and finishing touches alongside other materials, for instance as hinges on chests.
• Luxurious Fabrics: This is a layered, rich decorating style, and the use of luxurious fabric enhances that. Richly textured with embroidery and mirror-work, these fabrics also bring a handmade element. Fabric is used in canopies, bedding, accent pillows, throws and upholstery as well as window treatments.
• Piles of Pillows: Pillows are extensively used along with throws. They can be used on sofas and also as large pillows or bolsters on the floor for extra seating. Leather poufs can also be used for extra seating.
• Rugs: Richly colored, woven rugs help with the over all look of luxury and layering. Rugs can also be layered.
• Tea Tables: Small, low tea tables with carved metal or wood tops can be placed alongside sofas or piled pillows. Use one by itself or cluster a few different sizes together.
• Subdued Lighting: To continue with a luxurious, exotic look, use subdued lighting. Moroccan interiors use pierced, carved or colored lamp shades, wall sconces or chandeliers. The shades are made from metal, wood or glass.
• Accessories: Mirrors on the wall to help reflect light, and carved frames or wall panels, along with candlesticks, bowls and tea sets can also help layer the Moroccan look further. Accessorize sparingly with Moroccan inspired pieces when you need just a touch of the exotic.

Mix with Other Styles

This style lends itself well to blending with other styles when you use only a few well chosen pieces or use just a few accessories for accents. It can be at home in even modern interiors.

Bring it Outdoors

And while you're at it, why confine it indoors? Take it outdoors to your backyard or patio as well. Outdoor canopies or tents can provide shelter from the sun, while piles of pillows add comfort.