Moroccan Interiors

From the picture below you would think I have just returned from a holiday in Morroco, but you would be mistaken. I actually holidayed in Marbella, Spain and it was here that I stumbled across an Aladdin’s cave that had me dreaming of humid Moroccan nights and sweet tea. The shop, which is nestled in the heart of Puerto Banus, is a mecca for all things Moroccan. The moment I stepped foot inside the busy crowded store, greeted by a soft low lit glow and spicy majestic aroma which hung in the mid day air, I was inspired to bring the colourful palate and textures of Morocco to my bedroom at home and transform the dull, lacklustre space into a haven for ethnic pleasures that awaken the senses and cast a spiritual calm.

I have always been utterly obsessed and had an affinity with the hamsa hand, having a vast collection already I knew that it would be a main source of inspiration; a symbol I would use to build my new decadent room around. The hamsa is a palm shaped amulet popular throughout the Middle East and North Africa. Depicting the open right hand, an image recognised and used as a sign of protection, the hamsa is believed to provide defense against the Evil Eye. In Islam, it is known as the hand of Fatima, named after Muhammads Daughter, Fatima Zahra. Levantine Christians will call it the hand of Mary, for the Virgin Mary and The Jewish refer to the symbol as the hand of Miriam, in remembrance of the biblical Miriam, sister of Moses and Aaron.

I will seek out a patterned bed throw and hand sewn cushions in varying fabrics to create a luxe bed area where I can relax and de-stress. Unique beaded glass draw handles will be added to furniture to give each piece an individual look and feel, and lanterns will house tea lights, while incense burns to recreate a Moroccan atmosphere.

The focal point of the room; the real talking point, will be a tented ceiling. Panels of billowing coloured chiffon with adorn the ceiling to create a romantic feel and cast dappled shadows about the room. An ornate light with feature at the centre, radiating the same soft glow I fell in love with in Marbella’s own little piece of Moroccan heaven.

A gold mirror will reflect light and colour, and tasselled hamas will be used as curtain tie backs. I’m on the look out for interesting hand painted ceramic bowls to use a decorative candle holders and storage for my vintage jewellery finds.

Keep a look out for my follow up post as I begin the decorating process and share with you the final master piece…

By Sophie Maguire – Editor