OK-
how to deconstruct a decorative style that has the Sahara Desert as it's backdrop and draws on a history that dates back to 8000 BC?
MOROCCO
My head's been spinning, but not just from the task at hand. I'm sure yours will, too, once you get a glimpse of some of the most amazing design elements that follow. Hang onto your hats-
So how do the remarkable citizens of Morocco do it - taking every inch of themselves and their surroundings and mixing up a special pot of unrivaled design bravado - yet doing it seemingly without a care in the world? I'm sure that there is so much more to it than meets the eye- but for our purposes today- here's a quick study...
COLORS
They don't exist any more saturated than on the streets of Morocco.
ARCHES
I love a flying buttress, but the Islamic arch immediately evokes all-things-exotic.
MOODY LIGHTING
Unlit sculptures become glowing magic.
PATTERNS
Always best in multiples. More is more!
METALWORK
Hammered, stamped, patina'd- it isn't Moroccan without a touch of crafted metal.
PAINTED STUCCO
Colors, or just stark white. Luis Barrigan learned from the best.
TERRA COTTA
Shiny crackling glazes, color, and pattern upon pattern.
Well, that's design from "the streets" of Morocco.
Tomorrow (or better known as Part II) we go inward- and explore some extraordinary interior spaces that wouldn't exist if not for the inspiration of this mythical/mystical desert oasis.
