Moroccan interior design, home decor and Moorish architecture
by David Calvin
plug itthe Moroccan home is a palace of the imagination and a poetic harmonizing between man and the natural world. Walls borrow their hues from the earth and desert sand - muted reds and honeyed yellows. Tedelakt, the ancient technique of rendering smooth waxed surfaces using a colored limestone paste and black soap, give walls and floors all the appearance of clay ceramic. Interior structuring takes on organic shapes. Bends and arches complement geometric zellige tiles and curvilinear vases, set with fresh roses from the garden. Floaty, gossamer curtains in place of doors give a pleasing open feeling to the living space, while allowing breezes to circulate freely.
The Moroccan home is a unique blend of African, Berber, and Islamic aesthetics. Plush cushions in richly textured fabrics are set upon carved ebony-stained pine and cedar moucharabi furniture. Casting the afternoon sunlight in abstract patterns are pierced metal and brass lamps standing on tables or hanging overhead. Seating, tables, and accessories throughout the home are patterned and shaped by beautifully crafted hexagonal, octagonal and arched forms. The total effect is a private visual playground and a welcoming museum-like showland that is at once masterful and inviting.
The scents of cedar and roses eddy with the aroma of lamb and apricots. Guests have arrived with a tap-tapping of a brass knocker on a heavy wooden door. The setting sun fires the purple-pink of jasmine and bougainvillea in the garden outside, as Tajine simmers a last few minutes in the oven. Domestic architecture in Morocco varies greatly according to regional climate and personal wealth. There are the simple stucco constructions of the poorer townsfolk, and there are villas of such magnificence as to lure the wandering soul across several continents for the mere occasion to stand enchanted outside their gates.
In Moroccan homes irrespective of means the blind indented arch is a most charming feature, one whose inspiration is taken directly from the mihrab, or prayer niche constructed on the qibla wall of the mosque. The interior courtyard, or riad, is another characteristic element of Moroccan architecture and of Islamic architecture in general.
Situated most often at the center of the home, the riad is a tool for privacy and practicality. Since often the main door off the street opens onto the courtyard, visitors are directed from the patio into a salon used especially for entertaining - and this without ever passing through other the living areas of the home. The riad allows for plenty of light and needed shade, since the sun's rays and also cooler air can permeate the whole of the dwelling, while at the same time the harsher elements of wind and direct sunlight are kept out.
Interior decor is essential to Islamic architecture. Vaults, cupolas, and arched doorways are principle features which serve both functional and aesthetic purposes. In some village homes, recessed walls and benches set in cement stucco offer simple detail.
More elaborate elements may include geometric and floral motifs carved into wood beams or plaster walls. Ceramic tile, known as zellige, is also used, and may be applied to any and all surfaces, and not limited to walls, floors, roofs, and ceilings. Creative and surprising patterns, molded organic materials, and the intriguing lines of Moroccan structural motifs make the Moroccan home an extraordinary visual playground. Imagine coming home after a long day's work and slipping into a living room oasis where you're bathed in soft reds, yellows and oranges while resting on a plush cushion, next to a set of mini palm trees, breathing in the scent of Jasmine incense, listening to light jazz flutes. Selecting Moroccan furniture isn't just about functionality anymore; it's about creating a comfortable habitat where you can relax, de-stress and enjoy your downtime.
Finding the right lighting is the key to creating an ideal atmosphere. As early as 5,000 BC, the Chinese have been building homes in correlation with the sun to provide optimal light, warmth and energy. Historically, Morocco has hosted groups of diverse people from all directions - Phoenicians and Carthaginians from the East, Sub-Saharan Africans from the South, in addition to Romans, Vandals and Andalusians from the North. This Diaspora of culture comes together and can be clearly seen in these colorful Moroccan lamps and lanterns.
What makes Moroccan lamps truly unique is that they're not mass-produced in a sterile factory -- but rather, each shade is made of sheep or goatskin and is then dyed and stretched over a solid iron frame, where it is hand-painted with a needle in brilliant colors, in the decorative tradition of Henna tattoo artistry. Dating back to the Bronze Age, Henna design mimics the Henna plant, which has a plethora of long, thin stalks and tiny blossoms. Much like the tattoos, the lamp designs showcase fluid black lines and shapes, outlined by tiny dots.
Moroccan lamps, varying in shape, size, color and mood offer the opportunity to turn your living room into a stunning art museum. The African Berbers were primarily an agricultural people, so the curved "Berber" floor lamp is painted with a classy, simple style in neutral colors. Tall, slender styles like "The Pharaoh's Light", "Red Sun" or "Orange Magical Arabian Nights" capture one's imagination, while dazzling with dancing patterns, vibrant colors and swaths of vacuous space that instinctively pulls the eyes toward it in wonderment. End table lamps like "African Sun" or "Fez Sun" provide multifunctional use, emanating a soothing glow, while the glass top holds a piece of art, a plant or a tea set for entertaining guests. When you behold a piece like "Ocean Sun," breathing moonlight into the room with its purple hues and oceanic design, you know that this lamp is not just for providing light, but is a piece of art that will compliment other furniture and themes in the room.
Moroccan lanterns made of stained glass resemble the sort of Church decor that pervades the Holy Land. The shapes range from a rounded hot air balloon design, to a diamond-shaped street lantern style and they can be hung from the ceiling or mounted on the wall. Traditionally, the stained glass panes are subtle, soothing colors - an olive green, a periwinkle blue or a hint of gold. Handmade and framed in black wrought iron, Moroccan lanterns can bring that one unforgettable, warm summer night into your home.
Moroccan lamps and Moroccan lanterns will add an air of magic to any room. When paired with Moroccan rugs, plants and other Moroccan furniture, these handmade Moroccan lights really put the finishing touches on a relaxing, unique escape.
For more information on Moroccan interior design, Moorish architecture, arabesque arts and crafts, Moorish lighting, Moroccan furniture, Moroccan homedecor, Moorish wood lattice screens moucharabieh or mashrabieh, please contact:
Saint Tropez Boutique 25 evelyn way San Francisco, California 94127 Phone: (415) 513-5920 Email: sales@sainttropezstone.com Website: http://www.sainttropezstone.com http://www.sainttropezboutique.net
2008-05-06
Sleigh Bedroom Furniture - An Option For Young And Old Alike : Furniture store
Sleigh Bedroom Furniture - An Option For Young And Old Alike
by Cordell Coleman
plug itSleigh bedrooms are the perfect solution for your personal space. They are versatile and attractive, and available in a surprising variety of styles. Of course beds, play are a vital role in your bedroom redo, and all beds have come along way since their beginnings, and they are continuing to evolve as a result of developing new styles, one example is the sleigh bedroom.
In ancient Greece, beds were crude structures of wood available only to the very wealthy and royalty, and definitely not the most comfortable items around. In many cases, the bed was more of a status symbol, because pallets of straw on the floor were often a more restful place to sleep. Unfortunately, for the people of Greece, the sleigh bedroom was not available, but things did begin to improve, and during the Renaissance age was born a time of lavish beds with extremely ornate woods and massive sizes. The mattresses had evolved as well into what was commonly referred to as a "feather tick", which was basically an oversized pillow, a very cozy alternative to the straw mattresses that preceded it. The only problem with the feather tick was the need to refill and clean it out. This was an enormous task consisting of removing all of the feathers and re-stuffing it, as you can imagine this was a very messy process. The Renaissance bed's where a stark contrast from the early settler's beds living in the New World in very small quarters sometimes encompassing only one room. The small quarters required very compact beds to fit in their homes. In fact, some of the beds used could be folded away or stored with pulleys to provide more living space during the day.
Fortunately, the selection for boudoir furniture, including the sleigh bedroom has increased dramatically since the early days, and our bedrooms have increased to unheard of proportions. The expansion of our homes, especially the master bedroom, affords the perfect scenario for creating an oasis in your own private room.
Sleigh bedrooms are an excellent solution for anyone who enjoys redecorating. The style of the bed with its sleigh shape and high headboard and low footboard adorned with graceful curves is perfectly suited to many decors. Because sleigh bedrooms are so versatile, you can revamp your room without the costly expense of purchasing new furniture.
You might be surprised to discover that the sleigh bedroom is available in more than just wood; they are also available in metal, including brass. In addition, the wood stains range from very dark to very light. The styles are just as vast from modern to antique reproduction. In fact, the same bed with the same stain could easily move from one extreme to the other seamlessly.
For instance, contemporary sleigh bedroom combined with sleek curtains, and accented with simple black or chrome lamps with clean lines and additional black, chrome or red accessories will create a very contemporary bedroom. Add modern art to your space with vibrant colors within your color palette containing varied shapes to complete the look. This same sleigh bedroom placed in a decor with rich colors, beloved family heirlooms and treasured antiques will make an amazing statement of the past, flowing perfectly from old to new.
In the same way a cottage sleigh bedroom would work in a country cottage room, filled with fresh flowers, traditional brightly colored quilts and quaint baubles; it would also work just as well in a beach themed room with light blue or green walls and sheer curtains and crisp linens. Decorate the walls with black and white photos of fishing villages or boats to provide a more modern take to the traditional theme.
It is the versatility that has made the sleigh bedroom so popular. Since the mid-19th century it has become one of the most popular styles, especially in America. This may be attributed to the surge in home improvers, who enjoy redecorating their space, and appreciate the furniture for its ability to work with so many decors.
Because the sleigh bedroom is available in some many styles, there are looks that are more suited to a particular venue. The Diana sleigh bedroom for example is best suited for a French country or vintage style. To achieve a French country room is very simple use a simple color on your walls, such as a light blue or green, then choose two additional coordinating colors in a lighter and a darker shade for accents. Toile is a standard in any French country room, try placing toile curtains or toile bedding in your bedroom. Accessories should be kept to a minimum and be simple in nature. For additional character to the room try stenciling a border of fleur-de-lis along the walls of your room.
Incorporating a sleigh bedroom into your child's room, a guest room or even a lake house is the perfect way to add elegance and charm. The lines of the furniture evoke richness, without being ostentatious. In fact, during the holidays a sleigh bedroom is perfect addition to complete your winter retreat, just through a throw that evokes the festive season onto your new bed and watch the children gather round looking for Kris Kringle.
Whichever model you choose you can be sure of the craftsmanship and beauty in your new furniture, and whether your décor is contemporary or country or changes from day to day, there is a perfect sleigh bedroom to fit your needs, so enjoy the fun of happy decorating for years.
by Cordell Coleman
plug itSleigh bedrooms are the perfect solution for your personal space. They are versatile and attractive, and available in a surprising variety of styles. Of course beds, play are a vital role in your bedroom redo, and all beds have come along way since their beginnings, and they are continuing to evolve as a result of developing new styles, one example is the sleigh bedroom.
In ancient Greece, beds were crude structures of wood available only to the very wealthy and royalty, and definitely not the most comfortable items around. In many cases, the bed was more of a status symbol, because pallets of straw on the floor were often a more restful place to sleep. Unfortunately, for the people of Greece, the sleigh bedroom was not available, but things did begin to improve, and during the Renaissance age was born a time of lavish beds with extremely ornate woods and massive sizes. The mattresses had evolved as well into what was commonly referred to as a "feather tick", which was basically an oversized pillow, a very cozy alternative to the straw mattresses that preceded it. The only problem with the feather tick was the need to refill and clean it out. This was an enormous task consisting of removing all of the feathers and re-stuffing it, as you can imagine this was a very messy process. The Renaissance bed's where a stark contrast from the early settler's beds living in the New World in very small quarters sometimes encompassing only one room. The small quarters required very compact beds to fit in their homes. In fact, some of the beds used could be folded away or stored with pulleys to provide more living space during the day.
Fortunately, the selection for boudoir furniture, including the sleigh bedroom has increased dramatically since the early days, and our bedrooms have increased to unheard of proportions. The expansion of our homes, especially the master bedroom, affords the perfect scenario for creating an oasis in your own private room.
Sleigh bedrooms are an excellent solution for anyone who enjoys redecorating. The style of the bed with its sleigh shape and high headboard and low footboard adorned with graceful curves is perfectly suited to many decors. Because sleigh bedrooms are so versatile, you can revamp your room without the costly expense of purchasing new furniture.
You might be surprised to discover that the sleigh bedroom is available in more than just wood; they are also available in metal, including brass. In addition, the wood stains range from very dark to very light. The styles are just as vast from modern to antique reproduction. In fact, the same bed with the same stain could easily move from one extreme to the other seamlessly.
For instance, contemporary sleigh bedroom combined with sleek curtains, and accented with simple black or chrome lamps with clean lines and additional black, chrome or red accessories will create a very contemporary bedroom. Add modern art to your space with vibrant colors within your color palette containing varied shapes to complete the look. This same sleigh bedroom placed in a decor with rich colors, beloved family heirlooms and treasured antiques will make an amazing statement of the past, flowing perfectly from old to new.
In the same way a cottage sleigh bedroom would work in a country cottage room, filled with fresh flowers, traditional brightly colored quilts and quaint baubles; it would also work just as well in a beach themed room with light blue or green walls and sheer curtains and crisp linens. Decorate the walls with black and white photos of fishing villages or boats to provide a more modern take to the traditional theme.
It is the versatility that has made the sleigh bedroom so popular. Since the mid-19th century it has become one of the most popular styles, especially in America. This may be attributed to the surge in home improvers, who enjoy redecorating their space, and appreciate the furniture for its ability to work with so many decors.
Because the sleigh bedroom is available in some many styles, there are looks that are more suited to a particular venue. The Diana sleigh bedroom for example is best suited for a French country or vintage style. To achieve a French country room is very simple use a simple color on your walls, such as a light blue or green, then choose two additional coordinating colors in a lighter and a darker shade for accents. Toile is a standard in any French country room, try placing toile curtains or toile bedding in your bedroom. Accessories should be kept to a minimum and be simple in nature. For additional character to the room try stenciling a border of fleur-de-lis along the walls of your room.
Incorporating a sleigh bedroom into your child's room, a guest room or even a lake house is the perfect way to add elegance and charm. The lines of the furniture evoke richness, without being ostentatious. In fact, during the holidays a sleigh bedroom is perfect addition to complete your winter retreat, just through a throw that evokes the festive season onto your new bed and watch the children gather round looking for Kris Kringle.
Whichever model you choose you can be sure of the craftsmanship and beauty in your new furniture, and whether your décor is contemporary or country or changes from day to day, there is a perfect sleigh bedroom to fit your needs, so enjoy the fun of happy decorating for years.
Tuscan furniture for your home to have a simple and civilized look : Furniture store
Tuscan furniture for your home to have a simple and civilized look
by Adam Peters
plug itThis article tells us about the Tuscan theme for furniture, its evolution and different patterns or colors used in this theme and further can be used to give an elegant appeal to your room.
Tuscany is always mistaken by public to be French for some reason rather it is Italian. As the theme of Tuscan means furniture and its very uniquely and clearly Italian.
The theme of furniture is a broadly based one and it depends on the style and architecture of a region called Tuscany of Italy. This place which is in the Northern part of Italy surrounds the town Florence and is well known as very simple and rural region and also as a home for great art of renaissance period. This theme of furniture depicts this duality in which it mostly consists of some simple folk parts mixed with items painted by hand and also a traditional veneer with a very graceful look to the theme.
The basic or primary material for the Tuscan furniture theme is wood and others like chestnut, cypress, fir and poplar being general choices. This theme also uses a bit of iron, leather and metal having worked into the patterns or designs. In this respect, Most of the times, it resembles to the Spanish theme of furniture. Thick red and cool blue are the most commonly used colors. These colors depict the combination of both classy and rusty look which is the feature of the theme.
Many design come with straight lines which is common in a traditional Roman and Italian architecture. There is a vast difference from the ornate or showy theme that had marked the theme of renaissance although both existed together in the area for hundreds of years. If a glance at a piece gives you a civilizing and simple feeling, then what you are looking at is a piece of Tuscan.
Florence city, which is in the center of the Tuscan area, is known as home for several of the best arts available in the world. Furniture shaped at this region is however called a Tuscan theme; extensive creations are found at Florence. These are very expensive; however have the basic styling and lines. Rustic style of theme is mostly seen on the Country side of Tuscan. The pieces are very simple in terms of its design, but they also hold the theme’s unique marks.
Migrating in mass by Italians to America has got the Tuscan furniture them around the start of 20th century. This theme signified the knowledge they had for their complete life and this was long before the main Tuscan furniture theme was manufactured in the US. Areas with good number of Italian people still have this theme as one of the popular ones. The traditional or the older look and also the charm of this theme have made it a famous choice for decoration not only for a single room but for the complete home. Market is always flourishing for reproducing the pieces of Tuscan. Tuscan pieces are made available by the growth in the international market by having them produced through the descendents of the real craftsman present worldwide.
by Adam Peters
plug itThis article tells us about the Tuscan theme for furniture, its evolution and different patterns or colors used in this theme and further can be used to give an elegant appeal to your room.
Tuscany is always mistaken by public to be French for some reason rather it is Italian. As the theme of Tuscan means furniture and its very uniquely and clearly Italian.
The theme of furniture is a broadly based one and it depends on the style and architecture of a region called Tuscany of Italy. This place which is in the Northern part of Italy surrounds the town Florence and is well known as very simple and rural region and also as a home for great art of renaissance period. This theme of furniture depicts this duality in which it mostly consists of some simple folk parts mixed with items painted by hand and also a traditional veneer with a very graceful look to the theme.
The basic or primary material for the Tuscan furniture theme is wood and others like chestnut, cypress, fir and poplar being general choices. This theme also uses a bit of iron, leather and metal having worked into the patterns or designs. In this respect, Most of the times, it resembles to the Spanish theme of furniture. Thick red and cool blue are the most commonly used colors. These colors depict the combination of both classy and rusty look which is the feature of the theme.
Many design come with straight lines which is common in a traditional Roman and Italian architecture. There is a vast difference from the ornate or showy theme that had marked the theme of renaissance although both existed together in the area for hundreds of years. If a glance at a piece gives you a civilizing and simple feeling, then what you are looking at is a piece of Tuscan.
Florence city, which is in the center of the Tuscan area, is known as home for several of the best arts available in the world. Furniture shaped at this region is however called a Tuscan theme; extensive creations are found at Florence. These are very expensive; however have the basic styling and lines. Rustic style of theme is mostly seen on the Country side of Tuscan. The pieces are very simple in terms of its design, but they also hold the theme’s unique marks.
Migrating in mass by Italians to America has got the Tuscan furniture them around the start of 20th century. This theme signified the knowledge they had for their complete life and this was long before the main Tuscan furniture theme was manufactured in the US. Areas with good number of Italian people still have this theme as one of the popular ones. The traditional or the older look and also the charm of this theme have made it a famous choice for decoration not only for a single room but for the complete home. Market is always flourishing for reproducing the pieces of Tuscan. Tuscan pieces are made available by the growth in the international market by having them produced through the descendents of the real craftsman present worldwide.
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