Iron and Brass Bed from Original Bedstead Company.

FOR ANYONE looking to introduce a flavour of exotica into their home there can be few better influences to consider than those of Morocco.

Tucked between Europe and Africa with the Atlantic and Mediterranean oceans on the doorstep, Morocco is a country influenced by many different cultures and a vibrant but turbulent history.

Acting as a crossroads for all points of the compass, Moroccan décor blends styles from Spain, Portugal and France to the north, with very strong African, Persian, Mediterranean and Islamic influences from the south and east.

It is this great diversity that gives Morocco a unique and special intrigue with an eclectic and dramatic character. It’s not hard to understand why the elegantly mysterious elements found in Moroccan style décor have such an enticing allure.

And whilst not suited to every home, and with more niche appeal than some more mainstream decorative themes, the look and feel of Moroccan Exotic has, in recent years, become increasingly popular in the West.

Picture Morocco and we doubtless have visions of relentless sunshine, vibrant colours and the bustle of Moroccan bazaars. It is the blazing African sun that dictates much of Morocco’s architecture and design elements, where, through necessity, cool comfort inspired by the landscape and culture, is the dominant theme.

From the glittering coastlines of Tangier and Casablanca, to the snake charmers and spiced fragrances of Marrakesh, inspiration is to be found for many a European home for a touch of exotic flair and luxury.

Admittedly, here in more temperate, less evocative climes, a degree of restraint might be advised if we are to avoid startling the neighbours, and yet there is no doubt that elements of Moroccan exotic can transform the ambiance of a particular room or influence the character of the home as a whole.

Strong colour is the key and should be the focal point for any makeover. Atlantic and Mediterranean inspired blues and greens and shimmering Sahara sands silvers and gold, will all look the part.

Rich reds and oranges conjuring images of African sunsets are just perfect and can feature in wall colour, fabrics and accessories. In fact fabrics with wonderful textures and intricate detailing are found everywhere in Morocco.

Sumptuous cushions piled high, rich throws and pillows and luxurious fabrics draped in abundance, from the ceiling to the floor, are all intrinsically Moroccan to the core. Ornately carved wooden furniture, intricate mosaics, lush upholstery, elegant tassels and jewelled accessories, complete the picture.

The message really does need to be one of enticing luxury and comfort. The luxury theme works nowhere better in the house than in the bedroom for clear and obvious reasons. No environment is better suited to a good measure of comfort and a little decadence, and it’s a great place to make a start on a Moroccan themed room before deciding to perhaps roll the look out to other areas of the home.

Of course, the beauty of this exotic Moroccan design style is that within the bedroom at least, it’s possible to really allow the imagination to run wild and indulge some fantasies. Overhead canopies reminiscent of mosquito netted desert bazaar tents add a flavour of mystery and large tropical specimen plants such as palm or banana would add to the mood and create an oasis-like feel.

Likewise, careful use of mirrors will enhance your Moroccan bedroom by subtly reflecting light and adding interest to walls and a feeling of space. As with furniture choice, look out for mirrors that feature decorative wrought iron work or deeply carved wood or jewelled detailing.

The bed itself is of course, the centre point of any bedroom. Again, an intricate Iron Bed design with overhead canopy and acres of throws, bolsters, cushions and crisp linens, might be just perfect

The Armoy Brass bed in rich golden antique brass with tassel detailing and inviting flowing lines is already most of the way there.

Opulent and glamorous, it defines exotic style and would look fabulous within any Moroccan inspired decorative theme. To complete the look, plush Persian rugs on a dark hardwood floor will add further to the feeling of luxury, and subdued lighting created by pendants and lamps made from coloured glass with scrolled metal detailing offers soothing ambiance.

Likewise, using candles in traditional lamps will add the romantic element of moving light, as will sensual scents to conjure all those exotic Moroccan images. Incense and candles rich with spices such as nutmeg, cinnamon and wild berries, will all complement this truly different yet uniquely enticing decorative proposition.