The Moroccan style originates from Hispanic-Moorish
influences and has become popular in parts of France, the
United Kingdom, and the United States of America because of
its dramatic jewel toned colors, lovely exotic patterns, and
elegant Moroccan fabrics. This popularity has surfaced
because of the renovations of Riads (traditional Moroccan
homes that places emphasis on an interior garden) in
Marrakech. The beauty about Moroccan home design is that it
draws and blends influences from Africa, Latin America, and
Europe.

One of the interesting things about Moroccan home dcor is
that most of the items are individually crafted to ensure
superior quality. These include handcrafted tables, lamps,
quilts, and rugs, which add a splash of culture and
historical character to the room.

Among the most classic pieces are the various kinds of
hand-woven rugs known as kilims. Kilims come in a variety
of designs, colors, and are handmade by women from the Atlas
Mountains in Morocco. However, most kilims come in the
traditional black and red Moroccan colors and can be used as
an area rug or as wall dcor. To coordinate with this
lovely rug, incorporate Moroccan style furniture that is
accentuated with bold colors and complex designs. You can
choose from ottomans, nightstands, tables, chairs,
wardrobes, headboards and chests, which can be heavy wood or
wrought iron pieces to include in the space. The ornate
markings on the heavy wood are common and the metal pieces
are stocky. To get that authentic Moroccan furnished feel,
look for imports such as delicately carved screens and
carved furniture pieces with mother of pearl or brass
details and bright colors. Keep in mind that it is
challenging to find two designs that are identical because
of the uniqueness of each piece.

Want to add drama? Select a paint color ranging from cobalt
blue to saffron yellow, bright pink, a rich red or green to
give the space decorative appeal. To accessorize your room,
consider integrating exotic pieces that complement the
existing colorful furniture and rugs. Employing prints and
paintings, along with accessorizing with beaded fringes,
leather bound books, decorative pillows, and plants will
enable you to tie all of the elements together thus giving
your room that exotic feel. For Moroccan bedding, try using
spice colors as a way of offsetting or matching the color
scheme. Lastly, add mood lighting by using Moroccan candle
lanterns or lamps, which come in a variety of designs.

Giorgina Devereaux is the creator of AskGiorgina.com, which features questions, answers, and ideas on home decor and furniture. For more information, please visit http://www.AskGiorgina.com