If you’ve read my introduction, you’ll know that I was born of parents from different cultures, French and Moroccan. My French mother came to France in the 60s to teach in Moroccan secondary schools. That’s how she met my father, and that’s how they built a family (including me!). All this to say that I regularly went on vacation to Morocco when I was a child (2 whole months as my mother was a teacher) and I’ve known about Moroccan decor and crafts ever since I was a child. In the 20 years I’ve called Marrakech home, I developed a deep appreciation for modern Moroccan decor.
For a long time, I had the impression that I was always seeing the same things: the same leather babouches, the same leather poufs, the same cedar handkerchief boxes from Essaouira, the same painted pottery from Fez…
From Souks to Showrooms: Showcasing the New Wave of Moroccan Decor
Well, either that’s not the case, or Moroccan decor has known a fascinating shift – a vibrant modern twist on age-old craftsmanship. I can’t decide whether I’m looking at it the wrong way, or whether it’s really the case, but it doesn’t matter! One thing’s for sure: from geometric tiles to handwoven textiles, Moroccan design is captivating the world with its rich heritage and fresh interpretations.
Modern Moroccan decor seamlessly complements a variety of styles.
Today, discerning consumers crave objects that are both unique and elegant. Modern Moroccan decor fulfills this desire by offering a captivating blend of traditional craftsmanship with a modern touch.
This exciting movement has made Moroccan Berber art more available to a global audience. You can find fine Moroccan pieces in boutiques and galleries around the world, showcasing Morocco’s rich cultural heritage.
Exploring the Evolving Landscape of Moroccan Craftsmanship
From leather bags to ceramics, virtually every domain of Moroccan craftsmanship has received a fresh, contemporary makeover. Sure, the cedar wood vendor might still offer their little box of “secret” trinkets (wink, wink!) that he used to offer when I was a child, but that’s part of the charm.
What is really great is how seamlessly traditional and modern techniques blend in Moroccan souks. This beautiful intermingling is the magic formula that fuels the rise of modern Moroccan decor.
Modern Moroccan Basketry
I just love it! When it comes to basketry, there’s always something new going on, and artisans are full of ideas. They try out new shapes and weaving techniques.
It’s the area I know best, and the one that’s grown the most in my opinion.
This revival can be attributed to several factors, including the growing interest in sustainable living and responsible consumption. Basketry, after all, uses natural and renewable materials, making it a perfect fit for this eco-conscious movement. Additionally, the popularity of the bohemian style in interior design has played a role. The organic shapes, natural textures, and warm colors of wickerwork seamlessly complement this aesthetic.
Modern Moroccan Pottery
Moroccan ceramics and pottery, known for their geometric and floral motifs, are now blooming with abstract and figurative designs. This fresh twist caters to Western consumers who crave a touch of the unexpected in their home decor.
The shapes have also evolved to become more varied and sometimes more complex.
Modern Moroccan Babouches
Traditionally, babouches were made from goat or sheep leather. They were often simple and functional, with leather soles and plain or embroidered leather uppers.
Then they began to be made in different shapes and styles: flat, with heels, pointed or round toe, and with embellishments such as tassels, embroidery or pearls. Not forgetting all the materials used, raffia, silk, cotton or fabrics of all kinds, hand-woven, antique rugs or others.
Moroccan Rugs
Moroccan carpets… a captivating world as vast and diverse as the country itself. Each region boasts unique characteristics, meticulously preserved through generations. While tradition reigns supreme, women artisans have embraced change, adapting their craft to meet Western tastes. Alongside the stunning traditional designs, you’ll find carpets with simpler motifs and soothing neutral hues, offering a touch of contemporary elegance for modern homes.
Moroccan Blankets
I think these two images really show how Moroccan decor has evolved over the last twenty years.
Living in Marrakech for 20 years, I’ve witnessed the fascinating evolution of blankets and plaids. Gone are the vibrant stripes and bold patterns that dominated the 2000s, replaced by a more subdued elegance.
Remember the striped and colorful blankets made of sabra? They gave way to woven bedspreads in plain wool or muted stripes, fringed with playful tassels. But lastly, even tassels are evolving, transformed into chic “bangs” for a modern touch. And for 3 or 4 years, the latest trendsetter is Berber blankets with delicate colored stripes.
This is my prime example of the evolution of trends and the ability of Moroccan craftsmen to adapt to consumer demands.
Influence of Western styles on Moroccan Home Decor
Scandinavian Style
I’ve also noticed that Moroccan decor has been influenced by Scandinavian decor, embracing the Nordic love for clean lines, natural materials, and neutral hues.
For example, Moroccan wooden furniture, traditionally made with intricate lines and geometric patterns, is now available with cleaner lines and simpler designs.
This marriage of styles gives birth to a fresh aesthetic that’s both elegant and modern – perfect for people looking for an interior that’s both comfortable and sophisticated.
It’s one of the design trends we love at Latitude 31n. You will find great ideas in the Soft Latitude collection.
Rustic Style
The design style is defined by a natural, rough, and warm atmosphere. It is inspired by life in the country, and highlights natural materials and neutral colors.
Get your rustic fix with our Natural Latitude collection! We’ve got all the ideas you need for a cozy, countryside look.
In addition to these interior design styles, modern Moroccan decor runs through several decorating trends such as bohemian, eclectic obviously, and coastal, as well as wabi-sabi and vintage influences.
Speaking of wabi-sabi and vintage, explore our Ethnic Latitude and Vintage Latitude collections – filled with unique pieces to add a touch of global soul to your space.
The most important is that Moroccan craftmanship constantly evolves while staying true to its roots. This evolution is due to the creativity and know-how of Moroccan craftsmen, as well as their desire to pass on a rich, age-old culture while adapting to the tastes and needs of modern consumers.
Modern Moroccan Decor
Moroccan Decor is in my DNA
If you’ve read my introduction, you’ll know that I was born of parents from different cultures, French and Moroccan. My French mother came to France in the 60s to teach in Moroccan secondary schools. That’s how she met my father, and that’s how they built a family (including me!).
All this to say that I regularly went on vacation to Morocco when I was a child (2 whole months as my mother was a teacher) and I’ve known about Moroccan decor and crafts ever since I was a child. In the 20 years I’ve called Marrakech home, I developed a deep appreciation for modern Moroccan decor.
For a long time, I had the impression that I was always seeing the same things: the same leather babouches, the same leather poufs, the same cedar handkerchief boxes from Essaouira, the same painted pottery from Fez…
From Souks to Showrooms: Showcasing the New Wave of Moroccan Decor
Well, either that’s not the case, or Moroccan decor has known a fascinating shift – a vibrant modern twist on age-old craftsmanship. I can’t decide whether I’m looking at it the wrong way, or whether it’s really the case, but it doesn’t matter! One thing’s for sure: from geometric tiles to handwoven textiles, Moroccan design is captivating the world with its rich heritage and fresh interpretations.
Modern Moroccan decor seamlessly complements a variety of styles.
Today, discerning consumers crave objects that are both unique and elegant. Modern Moroccan decor fulfills this desire by offering a captivating blend of traditional craftsmanship with a modern touch.
This exciting movement has made Moroccan Berber art more available to a global audience. You can find fine Moroccan pieces in boutiques and galleries around the world, showcasing Morocco’s rich cultural heritage.
Exploring the Evolving Landscape of Moroccan Craftsmanship
From leather bags to ceramics, virtually every domain of Moroccan craftsmanship has received a fresh, contemporary makeover. Sure, the cedar wood vendor might still offer their little box of “secret” trinkets (wink, wink!) that he used to offer when I was a child, but that’s part of the charm.
What is really great is how seamlessly traditional and modern techniques blend in Moroccan souks. This beautiful intermingling is the magic formula that fuels the rise of modern Moroccan decor.
Modern Moroccan Basketry
I just love it! When it comes to basketry, there’s always something new going on, and artisans are full of ideas. They try out new shapes and weaving techniques.
It’s the area I know best, and the one that’s grown the most in my opinion.
This revival can be attributed to several factors, including the growing interest in sustainable living and responsible consumption. Basketry, after all, uses natural and renewable materials, making it a perfect fit for this eco-conscious movement. Additionally, the popularity of the bohemian style in interior design has played a role. The organic shapes, natural textures, and warm colors of wickerwork seamlessly complement this aesthetic.
Modern Moroccan Pottery
Moroccan ceramics and pottery, known for their geometric and floral motifs, are now blooming with abstract and figurative designs. This fresh twist caters to Western consumers who crave a touch of the unexpected in their home decor.
The shapes have also evolved to become more varied and sometimes more complex.
Modern Moroccan Babouches
Traditionally, babouches were made from goat or sheep leather. They were often simple and functional, with leather soles and plain or embroidered leather uppers.
Then they began to be made in different shapes and styles: flat, with heels, pointed or round toe, and with embellishments such as tassels, embroidery or pearls. Not forgetting all the materials used, raffia, silk, cotton or fabrics of all kinds, hand-woven, antique rugs or others.
Moroccan Rugs
Moroccan carpets… a captivating world as vast and diverse as the country itself. Each region boasts unique characteristics, meticulously preserved through generations.
While tradition reigns supreme, women artisans have embraced change, adapting their craft to meet Western tastes. Alongside the stunning traditional designs, you’ll find carpets with simpler motifs and soothing neutral hues, offering a touch of contemporary elegance for modern homes.
Moroccan Blankets
I think these two images really show how Moroccan decor has evolved over the last twenty years.
Living in Marrakech for 20 years, I’ve witnessed the fascinating evolution of blankets and plaids. Gone are the vibrant stripes and bold patterns that dominated the 2000s, replaced by a more subdued elegance.
Remember the striped and colorful blankets made of sabra? They gave way to woven bedspreads in plain wool or muted stripes, fringed with playful tassels. But lastly, even tassels are evolving, transformed into chic “bangs” for a modern touch. And for 3 or 4 years, the latest trendsetter is Berber blankets with delicate colored stripes.
This is my prime example of the evolution of trends and the ability of Moroccan craftsmen to adapt to consumer demands.
Influence of Western styles on Moroccan Home Decor
Scandinavian Style
I’ve also noticed that Moroccan decor has been influenced by Scandinavian decor, embracing the Nordic love for clean lines, natural materials, and neutral hues.
For example, Moroccan wooden furniture, traditionally made with intricate lines and geometric patterns, is now available with cleaner lines and simpler designs.
This marriage of styles gives birth to a fresh aesthetic that’s both elegant and modern – perfect for people looking for an interior that’s both comfortable and sophisticated.
It’s one of the design trends we love at Latitude 31n. You will find great ideas in the Soft Latitude collection.
Rustic Style
The design style is defined by a natural, rough, and warm atmosphere. It is inspired by life in the country, and highlights natural materials and neutral colors.
Get your rustic fix with our Natural Latitude collection! We’ve got all the ideas you need for a cozy, countryside look.
In addition to these interior design styles, modern Moroccan decor runs through several decorating trends such as bohemian, eclectic obviously, and coastal, as well as wabi-sabi and vintage influences.
Speaking of wabi-sabi and vintage, explore our Ethnic Latitude and Vintage Latitude collections – filled with unique pieces to add a touch of global soul to your space.
The most important is that Moroccan craftmanship constantly evolves while staying true to its roots. This evolution is due to the creativity and know-how of Moroccan craftsmen, as well as their desire to pass on a rich, age-old culture while adapting to the tastes and needs of modern consumers.