Moorish Style Decorating

Color Palette

• Color is one of the most important aspects of this decor style. Use rich jewel-tone colors such as emerald green, sapphire blue, ruby red, amethyst purple and topaz yellow; earthy hues such as rust and oxblood; and spicy colors such as paprika and saffron. Mediterranean blue is another prominent color in Moorish and Moroccan decor. Combine all of these colors for a vibrant, striking effect, or choose just one of these color groups. Jewel-tone colors create a decadent, luxurious atmosphere; earthy and spicy colors lend a more subtle, natural feel; blues and whites create an airy vibe, reminiscent of the Mediterranean sea.

Walls and Floors

• Walls have a textured, rustic appearance that's easily re-created with textured paint or faux paint techniques such as crackle glazing and sponging. Cover the walls with fabric in the same way as you would apply wallpaper for a luxurious feel, or create an exotic Bedouine tent vibe with softly draped sheer fabrics cascading down the walls. Tiles featuring a traditional geometric design known as "zellige" are used on walls and floors. Floor tiles are either painted and glazed or have a natural finish. Terracotta floor tiles complement Moroccan and Moorish-style interiors for a more understated look.

Furniture and Fabrics

• Elaborately embellished and carved woodwork combines with hand-painted, highly lacquered pieces such as armoires and solid-looking chests. Furniture is low to the ground, and seating areas often consist of large floor cushions. Add a touch of wrought iron with a small accent table. Tables often feature mosaic-tiled tops. Whatever room you're decorating, add lashings of luxurious fabrics. Persian-style rugs scattered across the floor, cushions and throws featuring tasseled edging, elaborate window dressings and bedding in luxurious fabrics such as silk all combine to create a richly textured, colorful space.

Accessories

• Complete your Moorish-style makeover with the addition of accessories such as Moroccan lamps and tea light holders, mosaic candle holders and wrought iron candelabras. Moroccan ceramics and pottery such as carafes, pitchers, jars and perfume bottles combine with copperware and silver. Add a hookah pipe and eight-pointed star mirrors or picture frames for an authentic oriental vibe.