Moroccan-andalusian architecture and design is marked by four main elements: the use of calligraphy, geometric patterns, floral designs, and muqarnas (honeycomb vaults or stalactites). while many of these features are shared with the wider islamic architecture and design, the moroccan-andalusian style is different in that it achieved a higher level of sophistication, a direct result of the melding of cultures in andalusia.
beyond their aesthetic appeal, it is important that our projects and products tell a story or convey a concept, and are in keeping with the wider history of moroccan-andalusian design. traditional designs harken back to 14th-16th century styles used in both andalusia and in past moroccan dynasties: the merenid, almohad, almoravid, and saadian dynasties. they may contain specific patterns or the original four mineral colors.
Like specific designs, these colors carried with them a certain symbolism; black and white were used to describe the soul, both good and evil. blue was reflective of land, green of water, saffron or yellow of air, and red of fire. as mentioned before, these colors were mineral colors; they were drawn from the land around the artists, from nature. the color blue was created using stone from casablanca. green, resulted from the use of copper. yellow, came from stones found in fes, as well as rust. honey came from red stones in the mountains of fez. white was a result of zinc and black came from stones in the sahara in southern morocco.
Contemporary designs incorporate a variety of brighter, more vivid colors, newer patterns such as the 100-point star, or are influenced by other styles such as the brain which is a delicate design used in zillij. however, they remain true to the essence of moroccan-andalusian design. above all, authenticity is important to us. although we use modern technology and computer software to help us plan a design, we execute our designs the same way our ancestors did before us.
