Bohemian vs Moroccan style: A Complete Guide
Bohemian and Moroccan style are two of the most popular interior design styles, and they are often compared because of their surface-level similarities. However, they differ significantly in philosophy, materials, and execution. Bohemian is known for free-spirited design layering global textiles, eclectic patterns, rich colors, and collected treasures from around the world, while Moroccan style embraces vibrant North African style with intricate zellige tiles, carved screens, jewel tones, and ornate lanterns. Understanding the differences between these two styles will help you choose the right direction for your home, or even combine elements from both to create a personalized space.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Category | Bohemian | Moroccan |
|---|---|---|
| Color Palette | Jewel Tones, Terracotta, Mustard, Teal | Deep Red, Royal Blue, Gold, Orange |
| Key Materials | Rattan, Macrame, Kilim Rugs, Natural Fibers | Zellige Tile, Brass, Carved Wood, Leather |
| Design Era | 1960s-1970s counterculture | Traditional Moroccan artistry |
| Best Room Types | Living Room, Bedroom, Studio | Living Room, Bedroom, Dining Room |
| Budget Range | Budget-friendly - eclectic thrifted and global finds | Budget to Medium - artisanal Moroccan crafts |
| Maintenance | Medium - many textiles and layered pieces | Medium to High - intricate tiles and textiles |
| Space Size | All sizes - layered and personal | All sizes - intricate detailing scales |
Color Palette
Jewel Tones, Terracotta, Mustard, Teal
Deep Red, Royal Blue, Gold, Orange
Key Materials
Rattan, Macrame, Kilim Rugs, Natural Fibers
Zellige Tile, Brass, Carved Wood, Leather
Design Era
1960s-1970s counterculture
Traditional Moroccan artistry
Best Room Types
Living Room, Bedroom, Studio
Living Room, Bedroom, Dining Room
Budget Range
Budget-friendly - eclectic thrifted and global finds
Budget to Medium - artisanal Moroccan crafts
Maintenance
Medium - many textiles and layered pieces
Medium to High - intricate tiles and textiles
Space Size
All sizes - layered and personal
All sizes - intricate detailing scales
Key Differences
Bohemian mixes influences from many cultures; Moroccan is specifically rooted in North African design traditions
In terms of bohemian mixes influences from many cultures; moroccan is specifically rooted in north african design traditions, Bohemian is defined by free-spirited design layering global textiles, eclectic patterns, rich colors, and collected treasures from around the world.
In terms of bohemian mixes influences from many cultures; moroccan is specifically rooted in north african design traditions, Moroccan style is defined by vibrant North African style with intricate zellige tiles, carved screens, jewel tones, and ornate lanterns.
Bohemian is relaxed and casual; Moroccan can be highly formal with intricate tilework and carved plaster
Bohemian furniture features low-slung seating, global-inspired textiles, and eclectic mixing.
Moroccan style furniture features distinctive shapes and quality craftsmanship that define the style.
Bohemian uses organic, flowing patterns; Moroccan uses precise geometric and arabesque patterns
In terms of bohemian uses organic, flowing patterns; moroccan uses precise geometric and arabesque patterns, Bohemian is defined by free-spirited design layering global textiles, eclectic patterns, rich colors, and collected treasures from around the world.
In terms of bohemian uses organic, flowing patterns; moroccan uses precise geometric and arabesque patterns, Moroccan style is defined by vibrant North African style with intricate zellige tiles, carved screens, jewel tones, and ornate lanterns.
Bohemian layers found and thrifted textiles; Moroccan features hand-cut zellige tile, pierced metal lanterns, and tadelakt plaster
In terms of bohemian layers found and thrifted textiles; moroccan features hand-cut zellige tile, pierced metal lanterns, and tadelakt plaster, Bohemian is defined by free-spirited design layering global textiles, eclectic patterns, rich colors, and collected treasures from around the world.
In terms of bohemian layers found and thrifted textiles; moroccan features hand-cut zellige tile, pierced metal lanterns, and tadelakt plaster, Moroccan style is defined by vibrant North African style with intricate zellige tiles, carved screens, jewel tones, and ornate lanterns.
What They Share
When to Choose Each Style
Choose Bohemian If...
- Choose Bohemian when you want a relaxed, globally-inspired mix with no strict rules and a creative, artistic vibe
- You love expressing personality through collected global treasures
- You enjoy layering patterns, textures, and colors freely
- You want a space that feels lived-in and full of stories
Choose Moroccan If...
- Choose Moroccan when you want the authentic artistry of North African design with precise geometry, lanterns, and zellige tile
- You love rich colors, intricate patterns, and exotic details
- You want a space that feels like a Moroccan riad
- You appreciate handcrafted artisanal elements
Room-by-Room Comparison
Living Room
Layered Moroccan rugs, a low floor sofa with global throw pillows, macrame wall hangings, and plants everywhere.
Low cushioned seating, colorful zellige tile tables, brass lantern lighting, and intricately patterned textiles.
Bedroom
A canopy draped in colorful fabrics, layered kilim rugs, hanging planters, and a gallery wall of collected art.
A carved headboard, colorful mosaic side table, draped fabrics overhead, and ornate brass lamp.
Kitchen
Open shelving with colorful ceramics, patterned cement tile backsplash, and hanging copper pots.
Zellige tile backsplash in jewel tones, ornate hardware, open spice shelving, and carved wood details.
Bathroom
Patterned encaustic floor tiles, a vintage mirror, draped linen curtain, and hanging planters.
Zellige tile walls, a carved stone basin, ornate brass faucet, and a mosaic floor pattern.
Dining Room
A round wooden table, mismatched vintage chairs, a colorful runner, and an eclectic gallery wall.
A carved round table, colorful poufs or low chairs, a brass pendant, and intricate tile flooring.
Frequently Asked Questions
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