Global Inspirations: Exploring the Culture and Beauty of Moroccan Rugs

Photo via Kelly Martin Interiors

Moroccan culture has captivated our attention with their exquisite rugs, but many people don't know much about the origins of their striking designs. Moroccan rugs were introduced into mid-century modern interiors in the 1920's, however these vivid rugs date back to the Paleolithic Era where the native people of Morocco hand-crafted them as an intrinsic part of their survival. 

Due to the harsh climates of North Africa, the Moroccan Berber tribes hand constructed the rugs to protect their families from either the frosty Atlas Mountains or the blazing Sahara Desert. Because of the different climates, tribes created various unique carpet styles. However, in most tribes the art of rug weaving was traditionally passed down from mother to daughter, and each design carried strong culturally symbolic meaning. 

The intricate geometric patterns portrayed themes of fertility, spirituality, and male protection; they also depicted the extraordinary stories of its weaver. Moroccan rugs are valued for their one-of-a-kind designs. There are over 45 different types of Moroccan rugs, but we'll be looking at three popular styles today: the Beni Ourain, the Azilal style, and the Boucherouite. 

Photo via MobMasker.

Beni Ourain: Nuts for Neutrals
Beni Ourain rugs come in neutral tones with dark geometric lines. These thick wool beauties can be incorporated into minimalist interiors, paired with bright furnishings, or intertwined with other lively prints. The options are endless! 

Photo via Semikah Textiles features rug style Silhouette.

Photo by Laure Joliet designed by Emily Henderson featuring home of Bri Emery.

 Azilal: Brilliantly Bold
Azilal rugs are known for their vibrant coloring and abstract patterns. The antique look of these textiles creates a beautiful contrast against modern interiors, and would also unite seamlessly with vintage decor. 

Product from Baba Souk.

Photo via My Domaine.

Boucherouite: Alluring Artistry
Boucherouite rugs were woven from different scraps of materials by Berber women, which resulted in exquisitely unique works of art. No two of these colorful creations are the same, a quality that is highly sought-after!

Photo from Lef Living.

Photo via Femina.

The true true beauty of the Moroccan rugs lie in the depth and meaning that each design carries. Every stitch holds a magnificent piece of history derived out of a rich and fascinating culture. Decorating with any of these elegant rugs will breathe life into countless interiors spaces. 

Dazzled by these Moroccan rug styles? Check out these vendors for your own little piece of Morocco:

Babasouk
Maroc Rug Company
Semikah Textiles
Illuminate Collective Rugs

Facebook: www.facebook.com/InteriorsbyJacquin

Twitter: https://twitter.com/JacquinMH

Instragram: www.instagram.com/jacquinmh

Artist Spotlight: Fine Art Jewelry & Metal Work by Kat Cole

One of the more exciting parts of my job at Interiors by Jacquin is having the opportunity to meet so many talented artists and designers. My recent studio visit at the home of artist Kat Cole has not only re-invigorated me, but also inspired me to bring you more behind the scenes artist interviews.

You will love the work of Kat Cole. She is a fine art jewelry designer and metalsmith creating work that uniquely mirrors the built environment. You will notice inspiration from industrial surroundings blended with Cole's colorful aesthetic. 

An enjoyable time chatting with contemporary jewelry artist Kat Cole in her plant filled home. 

'Boundary Lines Loop' necklace, steel, 2017. Kat Cole.

Kat Cole is currently a full-time studio artist based in Dallas, TX and is the co-founder of Jewelry Edition. She has been a presenter at Yuma Symposium and Craft Boston, she teaches workshops nationally and has exhibited internationally. You can watch our inspirational, on-camera interview at the end of this post. 

'Built #2' necklace, steel. 2016. Kat Cole.

(Left) 'Boundary Lines Shadow' necklace, steel, enamel. 2017. Kat Cole. 

(Right) 'Urban Color #2' necklace, steel, enamel. Kat Cole.

After admiring Kat Cole's jewelry design, we turned our attention to her amazing indoor garden!

Her one-of-a-kind work is sold online and in stores at Jewelry Edition as well as other retailers. You can find a full list of Kat Cole's jewelry retailers here. I look forward to adding Kat Cole's creations to my jewelry collection in the future! 

Kat Cole's stunning broaches were my favorite! I loved the originality, colors, and movement of the metal. (Above: 'Urban Color #1' broach, steel, enamel, 2017. Kat Cole.)

'Old Well' broach, steel, enamel, found object, rubber 2015, Kat Cole.

I had a lovely time chatting with contemporary metal artist Kat Cole in her plant filled home recently. It is always a bonus when you make a fabulous artist friend at the end of an interview! Follow Kat Cole on Instagram for further contemporary art inspiration.

Facebook: www.facebook.com/InteriorsbyJacquin
Twitter: https://twitter.com/JacquinMH

Instagram: www.instagram.com/jacquinmh

5 Steps to Contemporary Style at Home with Modani!

If you're new to Modani, allow me to introduce you to this fabulous brand specializing in modern and contemporary furniture. While this brand launched in Miami (a city known for its contemporary design), Modani has storefront locations in Dallas, Chicago, Houston, LA, San Francisco, and New York (in addition to Canada!). Whether you prefer a mid-century modern look or something more bold and contemporary, Modani will meet your needs. These 15 beautiful selections from Modani will add a feel of contemporary luxury to your home. Here are 5 home decor techniques to transform your home with contemporary style!

1. Liam Mid-Century Modern TV Stand in Walnut 2. Kuadro Contemporary Desk Walnut 3. Milena Contemporary Library Walnut 4. Hoggar Modern Ceiling Lamp 5. Kone Black Floor Lamp 6. Ponza Modern Table Lamp

7. Arago Gold Console Table 8. Lucia Modern Coffee Table with Marble 9. Lazare Leather & Gold Bench 10. Makah Walnut Shelves with Gold 11. Dino Contemporary Book Shelf

12. Forbe Contemporary Camel Leather Chair 13. Kelly Bar Stool 14. Mongolian Fur Stool 15. Rosana 3-seater in Off-White

Visit www.Modani.com for more modern and contemporary furniture inspiration.

Facebook: www.facebook.com/InteriorsbyJacquin
Twitter: https://twitter.com/JacquinMH

Instagram: www.instagram.com/jacquinmh

This post is sponsored by Modani Furniture. 

Mirror, Mirror on the wall...

Traditionally, selecting a mirror for your home may not be the most exciting purchase you make, but that's likely because you've been looking at boring mirrors lacking originality and design flair. Hansen Wholesale has changed all of this by offering a selection of well over 1,000 mirrors in unique, cutting-edge designs. Here is a collection of the BOLDEST mirrors found on the Hansen Wholesale website.

1. Uttermost Acacius Arched Mirror
2. Soraya Modern Gold Mirror
3. Zina Gold Mirror
4. Uttermost Agustin Light Walnut Mirror
5. Art Deco Capiz Shell & Glass Mosaic Mirror
6. Elegant Furniture & Lighting Co. Mirror
7. Jarah Honeycomb Mirror
8. Brayden Frameless Arched Mirror
9. Uttermost Devoll Antique Gold Mirror

I am especially impressed by the range of mirror silhouettes offered on the Hansen Wholesale website. You are no longer stuck with the basic rectangular mirror options! I recently added mirror #8 to my own bedroom and the quality is excellent... not to mention the compliments it receives. Hansen Wholesale also specializes in lighting and ceiling fans with an equally large selection, making Hansen Wholesale a fantastic go-to resource for your home decor needs! 

Facebook: www.facebook.com/InteriorsbyJacquin
Twitter: https://twitter.com/JacquinMH

Instagram: www.instagram.com/jacquinmh

Modern Sofa Guide

Finding the perfect modern sofa for your style can take time and patience with there being so many options out there. Here are some of the more unique sofas I have my eye on right now. These chic sofas have contemporary lines and major appeal for the design lover! 

1. Van Gogh Upholstered Tufted Sofa - $3,884

2. Hayden Brass Satin Sofa - $2,449

3. Outerbanks Sofa in Hampton Oyster - $2,449

4. Saturn Sofa in Mustard - $1,328
5. Rylan Tufted Sofa in Taranto Dove - $2,239
6. Bournemouth Sofa - $708
7. Vivian Sofa - $795

8. Corso Sofa in Polished Brass Frame - $2,999

9. Costura Sectional with Chaise - $4,999

Facebook: www.facebook.com/InteriorsbyJacquin
Twitter: https://twitter.com/JacquinMH

Instagram: www.instagram.com/jacquinmh

Artist Spotlight: featuring Art by Ojo

Things have been incredibly busy with an exciting redecorating project at home (more on that later!), but I'm glad to be back with a new post for you. Today we head to Toronto, Canada where artist Ojo Agi creates gorgeous portrait artwork. I hope you enjoy her artwork as much as I do!

Art by Ojo

Art by Ojo

Art by Ojo

 Artist Ojo Agi in front of a wall of her artwork.

Stay abreast on the contemporary works of Ojo Agi by following along on Instagram or visiting her website Art by Ojo. You can also explore more artists from my Artist Spotlight series here. Until next time...Ciao!

P.S. I'm planning new blog content for Interiors by Jacquin! What is your favorite blog series or topic to read about here on the blog? I would love your feedback as I plan for 2017. Comment below and let me know what your favorite blog topics are. Thanks!

Facebook: www.facebook.com/InteriorsbyJacquin
Twitter: https://twitter.com/JacquinMH
Instagram: www.instagram.com/jacquinmh

4 Ideas for Contemporary Decorating with Black

Want to know an easy secret for adding contemporary style to your home? It's decorating with the color black. Adding a touch of black to your space can be as easy as buying a can of paint or buying a few carefully selected decorative items, depending on the look you're going for. Here are four tried-and-true ideas for decorating with black that will absolutely transform your space to an amazing contemporary design. Everything you need to go from drab to contemporary & fab.... starring the color black!

Idea #1: Choose the perfect location in your home for a bold, black accent wall. Instant drama!

Image via Home Design Idea (EU)

Aleksandra Miecznicka interior design

Idea #2: Paint your interior doors and trim with contemporary black paint to wow your guests!

Blair Harris interior design

Joy Tribout interior design

Idea #3: Hang artwork & paintings that feature elements of rich, smoky black. Also try hanging your current family photos and artwork in contemporary black frames. 

Image via West Elm

(Left) Celine Ziang black and white painting (Right) Tracie Cheng painting with gold

Idea #4: Select black shelving for your home or paint your current built-ins and bookcases a crisp shade of black. Utilize a flat latex paint in black or even try a high-gloss black paint for added drama. For smaller pieces of furniture like the one shown below (on the right), you can transform your piece more easily by using black spray paint.

(Left) Image via Making-Spaces Ramblings (Right)

Melbourne apartment by Fiona Lynch.

The color black is amazingly effective at adding drama and contemporary sophistication to any space, yet is often under utilized. And despite being a lover of color, I've found that black truly helps ground a design. So take these design secrets involving decorating with black and give it a try in your space.

Which of these techniques for decorating with black are you most interested to try in the new year?

Facebook: www.facebook.com/InteriorsbyJacquin
Twitter: https://twitter.com/JacquinMH

Instagram: www.instagram.com/jacquinmh

A Chat with Que Duong: NYC Photographer and Creative Director

Que Duong Photography: "Sorbet" series

I have recently come across the creative work of NYC photographer Que Duong who has truly inspired me with his unique style and perspective. Que began in the fashion and beauty industry working in content creation and has since launched himself to the status of creative director, sharing compelling and sometimes edgy stories through his creative photography. Read on to catch my recent chat with this impressive, creative photographer.

Jacquin: Hi Que! You mention that your main source of inspiration is “the anticipation of life’s normally overlooked moments.” How do you manifest this in your work?

Que: We often look for the “big boom” in our day. In contrast, I look for the small moment such as drinking tea and creating “the big boom” around these thoughts and moments.

Que Duong Photography: "Colour Walls" series

Jacquin: Your photography has great energy and an exciting perspective. How do you begin to visualize and conceptualize your compositions in your photography?

Que: Majority of my concepts originate on my current mood at the time. I embrace all the spectrum of emotions whether it is sad or joy - it helps me create a story to tell. From that point, I researched the symbolism and metaphors. I translate those emotions and use it as starting point to create my compositions and content.

Que Duong Photography: "The New Band" series

Jacquin: What was your inspiration for "The New Band"? Is there a message behind these works? "The New Band" actually reminds me of a 1940s photo of historical Chicago by Russell Lee. I love this photo series, Que and really all of your works!

Que: Visually, my inspirations were from the vinyl covers of music groups. In term of the underlining message, I wanted to tell a story of the daily lives of the Brooklyn kids; to showcase the beauty of the simple moments such as sitting on the stoop with your friends, standing on the corner waiting for the bus, or going to church. Overall, the message I wanted to convey and bring to attention is "black is beautiful" – ‘til this today, it is still one of my favorite shoots!

Que Duong Photography: "The New Band" series

Que Duong Photography: "The New Band" series

Jacquin: How do you go about choosing the models for your shoots? (random, search for them, or you know them personally)

Que: Majority of the times I have casting calls. This allows me to use models that fit the concept.

Jacquin: How does your cultural background or surroundings influence your work?

Que: My cultural background and surroundings are extremely influential in my work. I am a Vietnamese kid raised New Orleans, a city that is surrounded by Jazz and magic! This colorful city often serves as a color palette for my work. I enjoy and draw energy from our laid-back attitudes and philosophies. It helps me conceptualize the simplest stories.

Que Duong Photography: "The Jazzman" series

Que Duong Photography: "The Jazzman" series

Jacquin: Are there any events or experiences in your life that have impacted your career as a photographer?

Que: Yes, social media! When I first started out, I was solely focused on fashion. Since then, I came to find my love for lifestyles and still life photography. This started out with my first job with Revlon – creating their social media content.

Que Duong Photography: "Madame of the Cloud" series

Que Duong Photography: "Madame of the Cloud" series

Jacquin: What type of projects are you most looking forward to as you move forward as a photographer and artist?

Que: Right now, I am working on cinematography and getting back into my painting (a passion of mine). I am looking to doing more creative direction.

Que Duong Photography: "Madame of the Cloud" series

Jacquin: You create uniquely artistic self-portraits. Do your self-portraits function as a means of self-representation, or do you regard yourself more as a character telling a story? (Check out one of Que's self-portraits below.)

Que: My self-portraits are mirror reflections of who I am. It is my way of writing my autobiography in a creative way, haha.

Jacquin: What would the perfect day be like for you?

Que: A perfect day for me would be waking up on a sunny Saturday’s morning, watering my plants while drinking Vietnamese coffee and jamming to 80’s pop (my go-to song is When in Rome – The Promise). Start with a trip down to Union Squares to buy more plants and have lunch in Chinatown. I would commute back to my cozy Harlem apartment and binge watch old shows on TV while I edit photos. Wrap up my day with a candle lit night and dancing to old school r&b tunes.

Self-portrait of NYC photographer Que Duong.

Follow Que Duong's photography and creative direction through his website or via his inspirational Instagram page. 

Facebook: www.facebook.com/InteriorsbyJacquin
Twitter: https://twitter.com/JacquinMH

Instagram: www.instagram.com/jacquinmh

Design Love: The Warren Platner Chair

The Avalon Hotel in Beverly Hills, CA, via Ish & Chi

You may have seen this modern and eye catching chair across the interior design world lately and that's because it's pretty amazing. This is one of those stunning designs that have stood the test of time, and remains a flawless addition to a space. The Platner Chair is the design work of architect, interior designer, and furniture designer Warren Platner who released this unique chair design in 1966. This chair works well in mid-century modern interiors, contemporary interiors, and any interiors with a fun, eclectic feel and that's why this chair is my eye-candy of the day. 

Designed by Jonathan Adler via Dwell

Modern French apartment via Vogue Living Austrilia

Home of designer Jayme Armour of Atlanta via myDomaine, Photography Sarah Dorio

Designers John Wooden and Dustin Dorr via Luxe.

What do you think of the Warren Planter Chair? I must say that I quite like it! This gorgeous chair was also in the recent home tour of model Marisa Howard, featured here on Interiors by Jacquin. Take a look at how Marisa styled this iconic chair in her dining room. (P.S. This home tour is filled with amazing artwork!) You can purchase your own Platner Armchair here or go for the wider Platner Lounge Chair for a space like the bedroom. You'll love it! 

Facebook: www.facebook.com/InteriorsbyJacquin
Twitter: https://twitter.com/JacquinMH

Instagram: www.instagram.com/jacquinmh