EXPERT ADVICE

“With its African, Mediterranean, Moorish, Arabic and European influences, I find Moroccan décor to be interesting, eclectic and addictive,” says Kundra Bowley of Moroccan Warehouse in Cape Town. She describes a few typical ‘looks’ inherent in the culture: • There’s the grand and luxurious ‘Arabic Morocco’ with its opulent gold, copper and dark carved wood with bone inlays; intricate mosaics; beautiful carved plaster pillars and details; horseshoe arches; exotic lighting and rich embellished fabrics. • ‘Beldi Morocco’ includes the imperfect handiwork of the native Berbers from the souks and markets; wood and grass chairs; stools with carved and tapered wooden legs; mosaic-topped tables; goatskin lampshades; handwoven rugs; handmade and hand-painted ceramics; old carved doors and windows; weathered terracotta pots and embroidered baskets. It has a more simple country look. There is always a story attached to the artisan, item or design that makes it special. • Then you get the ‘retro mix’ with Moroccan items in a totally new context. It’s wonderful to observe how young and trendy Moroccans blend this retro style with traditional Moroccan pieces. It’s such an exciting angle on Morocco – always colourful and full of surprises. • ‘Modern Moroc’ is coming through strongly; although the lines are cleaner and lighter, they never move away from what is truly Moroccan. There are the same arches, lighting and furniture items, just sleeker.