Whether it’s the deserts of Israel or the bustling city streets of Morocco, the Middle East has always had a hand in inspiring gorgeous, luxury home designs.
This is a region steeped in culture, full of styles and patterns that are not only beautiful but manage to radiate a sense of mystique, extravagance and fantasy due to their years-old history.
But for those of Middle-Eastern origin – or those who have simply fallen in love with the Middle-Eastern design trends – it can be hard to work out exactly where to start. For that reason, we’ve listed down a few areas we feel are most important and how you can instill them authentically.
Patterns Patterns, Patterns
We don’t mean to over-emphasise the point, but the most recognisable Middle-Eastern design traits are undoubtedly patterns! Specifically geometric patterns.
Including geometric patterns in your home must be done delicately, however. For instance, you could go big and change up the wallpaper of each room, but to ensure cohesion, each room would have to change in line with that specific wallpaper – which can be a problem both aesthetically and financially.
We think the best way to include patterns is through smaller, more subtle ways. For instance, patterned rugs, throw pillows, mirrors, or even the upholstery of your furniture.
Small Details
As mentioned before, the Middle East is known for its culture and history, much of which is evoked through their artwork and ornamental pieces.
With this in mind, it can be a good idea to find spaces around the house where you can include artwork and ornaments that you are drawn to. They don’t have to have a specific meaning to you. It could be luxurious Moroccan silverware for the table or a gorgeous Jewish tzedakah box for the mantlepiece.
But anything that evokes that mystique, history and culture should be incorporated around the home to push the Middle-Eastern theme and ensure that the house feels complete and cohesive by the end of the project.
Earthy Colours
When going for a Middle-Eastern theme, you’ve got to be a little brave in a few areas. One of these areas is colour.
Going back to the first point, if you are incorporating geometric wallpaper throughout the home, this will need to be coupled with big, bold colours to soften the impact and ensure each pattern is grounded.
For instance, a geometric patterned room with soft, cream furniture will look uneven and confusing. A geometric patterned room with vibrant, crimson furniture will feel complimented and even as a result.
When doing this, make sure you use earthy tones as a base – brown, deep orange, red – and then layer bold hues on top of that layer. Bold Middle-Eastern colours include plum, chocolate, gold, olive, crimson, curry, coral and navy.
Go Out There And Find Inspiration
The purpose of this article is to tell you how to instill a Middle-Eastern theme in your home, and although we’ve given you a few ideas, the best way to glean inspiration is to travel there yourself!
When it comes to researching interior design, the internet can only give you so much. The best way to instill design themes is to visit places that have already done it. By visiting the Middle East, you can take a look at the designs up close, feel the buzz of the culture, and allow the inspiration to wash over you. Plus, let’s be honest. There’s never a bad reason to go on vacation!
