18 Moroccan Living Room Ideas Full of Color & Culture
Ever walked into a room and immediately felt like you’ve been transported to a bustling Moroccan souk or a serene riad courtyard? That’s the magic of Moroccan design—bold colors, intricate patterns, and an effortless blend of comfort and exotic charm. If your living room is feeling a little too “beige” for your taste, buckle up, because we’re diving into 18 Moroccan-inspired ideas that’ll make your space anything but boring. Whether you’re a maximalist who loves all the vibrancy or someone who prefers subtle cultural nods, there’s something here for you. Let’s get started!
1. Go Big with a Bold Moroccan Rug
Let’s talk about the MVP of any Moroccan living room—the rug. A Beni Ourain or Boucherouite rug doesn’t just tie the room together; it is the room. These handwoven beauties come in everything from geometric black-and-white patterns to rainbow explosions of color. I once dragged one home from a Marrakech market (worth every sore muscle), and it instantly became the centerpiece of my space. Pro tip: The more worn-in it looks, the better. A little fraying? That’s just character.
Not ready to splurge on an authentic piece? Plenty of retailers offer stunning dupes that capture the same vibe without the vintage price tag. Just avoid anything too “perfect”—Moroccan design thrives on imperfection.
2. Layer Those Textures Like a Pro
Moroccan interiors are all about tactile experiences. Think plush velvet cushions, rough-hewn wooden tables, silky drapes, and chunky knit throws. The goal? A space that begs you to touch everything. I’ve lost count of how many guests immediately sink into my sofa just because it’s piled high with embroidered pillows and a faux-sheepskin throw. It’s like a hug for your butt.
Don’t shy away from mixing materials—metal lanterns next to clay vases, leather next to linen. The contrast is what makes it feel authentic. And hey, if it looks a little “undone,” that’s the point. Perfection is overrated anyway.
3. Embrace the Magic of Moroccan Lighting
Nothing sets the mood like a Moroccan lantern. Whether it’s a pierced metal pendant casting starry shadows or a cluster of mismatched tea lights in colored glass, lighting is where the ambiance happens. I once hosted a dinner party under a single oversized lantern, and let’s just say the compliments (and Instagram likes) didn’t stop. FYI, LED candles are your friend—no one wants to explain wax stains on a vintage rug.
For a modern twist, try pairing a sleek floor lamp with a traditional lantern. The juxtaposition keeps things fresh while honoring the aesthetic.
4. Play with Zellige Tile Accents
Zellige tiles are Morocco’s answer to “how can we make walls more exciting?” These hand-cut, glazed tiles come in kaleidoscopic colors and are often arranged in mind-bending geometric patterns. While tiling an entire wall might be a commitment, try using them as a fireplace surround or even a coffee table top. My friend DIY’d a Zellige-inspired side table using peel-and-stick tiles, and it looks legit—no passport required.
Stick to a single color family for a subtle look, or go full Marrakech with a rainbow mosaic. Either way, it’s instant drama.
5. Low Seating for That Authentic Vibe
Moroccan lounging is all about getting low. Swap your standard sofa for floor cushions, poufs, or a majlis-style seating arrangement. It’s surprisingly comfy—and perfect for lazy afternoons with a book or endless cups of mint tea. I converted my reading nook into a floor-seating zone, and now my cat and I fight over the best spot. (Spoiler: She usually wins.)
If your knees aren’t what they used to be, mix low and high seating. A bench or daybed paired with a couple of poufs keeps the vibe without the acrobatics.
6. Make a Statement with Moroccan Doors
Ever seen those arched, intricately carved Moroccan doors and wished your home had one? Same. While replacing your front door might be extreme, you can steal the look indoors. Use a decorative wooden screen as a room divider, or frame a doorway with mosaic tiles. I added a pair of vintage-style arched mirrors to my living room, and suddenly, my plain walls felt like a riad. Magic!
No space for architectural changes? Opt for door-inspired art or textiles. A tapestry with a geometric arch motif works wonders.
7. Spice Up Your Walls with Moroccan Art
Blank walls are a missed opportunity in a Moroccan-inspired space. Think hand-painted ceramics, vintage travel posters, or even a gallery wall of framed textiles. My personal favorite? A large-scale henna-inspired mural I stenciled (badly, but enthusiastically) behind my sofa. It’s not perfect, but it’s mine—and it sparks joy every time I see it.
Don’t overthink it. Mix modern prints with traditional pieces for a collected-over-time feel. And if you’re nervous about color, start with a neutral base and let the art pop.
8. Add a Touch of Glam with Moroccan Mirrors
Moroccan mirrors aren’t just for checking your reflection—they’re miniature works of art. Look for ones with hammered metal frames, star-cut designs, or intricate etching. I snagged a petite sunburst mirror at a flea market, and it’s the perfect catch-all for bouncing light around my dim hallway. Plus, it makes me feel fancy, even when I’m in sweatpants.
Cluster small mirrors for impact, or go big with a single statement piece. Either way, they’ll make your space feel larger and more luminous.
9. Bring the Outdoors In with Moroccan Courtyard Vibes
Traditional Moroccan homes often center around lush courtyards, so why not borrow the idea? Potted palms, citrus trees, or even a small fountain can transform your living room into an oasis. I killed approximately seven plants before finding a hardy fiddle-leaf fig that tolerates my neglect. Now it’s the star of my “indoor garden” (read: three plants and a dream).
No green thumb? Opt for botanical prints or a leafy wallpaper accent wall. The goal is to evoke that serene, dappled-light feeling.
10. Go Wild with Moroccan Patterns
Stripes, chevrons, stars, florals—Moroccan design throws pattern mixing into the ring and wins. The key is to stick to a cohesive color palette so it feels intentional, not chaotic. My couch is a riot of patterned pillows, but because they’re all in the same jewel-tone family, it works. Mostly. (My minimalist sister disagrees, but she also thinks beige is a personality trait.)
Start small with a patterned throw or curtains. Once you’re comfortable, go bigger with upholstery or wallpaper.
11. Create a Cozy Nook with a Moroccan Tent
Who says tents are just for kids? A draped canopy or a fabric-covered alcove adds instant bohemian charm. Drape sheer curtains from the ceiling, or hang a lightweight textile over a four-poster bed frame. I turned my awkward corner into a “reading tent” with some fabric scraps and fairy lights, and now it’s my favorite escape. Bonus: It hides the pile of books I swear I’ll organize someday.
Keep the fabric light and airy—think muslin or linen—to avoid a claustrophobic feel. Add floor cushions and a small lamp for the ultimate hideaway.
12. Mix Old and New for a Balanced Look
Moroccan design isn’t stuck in the past—it thrives when paired with modern elements. Try a sleek, contemporary sofa with a vintage Moroccan rug, or a minimalist shelving unit displaying antique brass trays. My living room has a mid-century chair next to a hand-carved wooden chest, and somehow, they’re best friends. Design rule-breaking for the win!
The trick is balance. Let one style dominate (usually the Moroccan elements), and use the other as a supporting act.
13. Use Color Like a Moroccan Local
Moroccans don’t do timid color. Think saturated blues, fiery oranges, emerald greens, and rich purples. But here’s the secret: They often balance bold walls with neutral furnishings (or vice versa). I painted one wall in my living room a deep, moody teal, and suddenly, my beige couch looked intentional instead of boring. Color alchemy!
If you’re nervous, start with accessories—pillows, vases, or a single statement chair. Dip your toes before diving into the rainbow.
14. Add Whimsy with Moroccan-Inspired Furniture
From carved wooden screens to mosaic-topped tables, Moroccan furniture is anything but basic. Look for pieces with curved lines, intricate details, or unexpected materials. My favorite find? A tiny, enamel-inlaid side table that looks like it belongs in a palace. (It was $30 at a garage sale. Shh.)
Not everything needs to be authentic. Many retailers offer Moroccan-inspired pieces that capture the aesthetic without the antique markup.
15. Make It Personal with Moroccan Souvenirs
The best Moroccan spaces tell a story. Display souvenirs from your travels—a hand-painted bowl, a leather-bound journal, or even a framed postcard. My shelf holds a tiny brass camel I bought in Essaouira, and every time I see it, I’m back in that sun-soaked market. (Also, it’s a great conversation starter. “Oh this old thing? Just a camel.”)
No travel souvenirs? Hunt for authentic pieces at local import stores or Etsy. The goal is authenticity, not a passport stamp.
16. Keep It Airy with Sheer Moroccan Curtains
Heavy drapes? Not in Morocco. Light, flowing fabrics like linen or cotton voile filter sunlight beautifully while keeping things breezy. I swapped my blackout curtains for sheer white ones, and suddenly, my living room felt like a riad at golden hour. (Minus the call to prayer and the smell of fresh bread. Sigh.)
For extra drama, choose curtains with subtle embroidery or tassel trim. They’ll add texture without blocking light.
17. Set the Mood with Moroccan Scents
Design isn’t just visual—it’s sensory. Fill your space with the scents of Morocco: amber, rose, sandalwood, or spicy oud. I burn a cedar-and-orange-blossom candle that makes my apartment smell like a Marrakech spice stall. (My neighbor once asked if I was baking something exotic. Close enough.)
Try incense, essential oil diffusers, or even a small pot of simmering spices on the stove. Your nose will thank you.
18. Don’t Forget the Finishing Touches
It’s the little things that make a Moroccan space sing: a brass tray stacked with tea glasses, a cluster of mismatched candles, or a single, striking piece of pottery. My coffee table always has a bowl of dates or almonds—partly for snacking, mostly because it looks pretty. (Priorities.)
Edit as you go. If something feels off, remove it. Moroccan design is layered but never cluttered.
And there you have it—18 ways to infuse your living room with Moroccan magic. Whether you go all-in with a Zellige-tiled accent wall or just add a few colorful poufs, the key is to have fun with it. After all, the best spaces reflect the people who live in them. So tell me: Which idea are you stealing first? (And if it’s the indoor tent, can I come over?)
