Turkish style is warm and inviting, earthy and exotic. There is an abundance of warm earth tones with pops of beautiful color. lots of patterns and texture and there is a slightly more rustic feel. It is simple, soft and relaxing.
Turkey has ancient roots. The colors and textures of the land has inspired much of the art, colors and culture. Turkish elements are often used in Bohemian inspired designs.
Turkish style showcases Byzantine and Ottoman architectural styles and modern and classical motifs.
Byzantine architecture had lots of exotic, sensual domes and mosaics, that are graceful and filled with light. It is ornate, vibrant and rich in detail, warm and sensual. It often blends soft whites with rich colors.
If you love feeding and entertaining guests, this might be the style for you, as this is very important in Turkish culture and reflected in their designs.
Turkey is known for their Kilim rugs and decorative coffee sets.
Turkish style is an example of global style Interior Design. Global Style Interior Design is all about telling the story of your life and adventures through your decor. Each piece has a story and becomes a conversation starter. Treasures, old and new are displayed from various parts of the world and layered in a rich tapestry of color, texture, art and history.
Colors of Turkey
Here are some of the varied colors used in Turkish design.
- Warm and Earthy Tones: Terra cotta, burnt orange, and deep browns, reminiscent of the country’s landscapes and architecture.
- Jewel Tones: Sapphire blues, emerald greens, and ruby reds, drawing inspiration from the vibrant bazaars and royal history.
- Mediterranean Blues: Aqua, turquoise, and teal, reflecting the hues of the Aegean and Mediterranean seas.
- Soft Neutrals: Creams, beiges, and soft grays often serve as base colors, providing balance to the vibrant hues.
Design Elements- The Art of Turkish Style
Here are some of the design elements Turkey is known for.
Iznik Tiles: These are highly decorative ceramic tiles, with intricate designs often featuring tulips, roses, pomegranates, and hyacinths in bright blues, reds, and greens.
Architectural Details: Arched doorways, domed ceilings, and detailed cornices reflect the influence of both Byzantine and Ottoman architectural styles.
Textiles: Turkish design boasts a rich tradition of textiles, from thick kilims and dhurries to ornate silks and brocades. The patterns often include geometric shapes, stylized nature motifs, and medallions.
Turkish Rugs: World-renowned for their quality and craftsmanship, they come in a vast array of patterns, colors, and styles.
Ottoman-Style Seating: Low sofas or divans, often without legs, placed around a room’s perimeter, accompanied by low wooden tables and floor cushions.
Lanterns: Turkish lanterns or “mosaic lamps” are often made of colored glass set in metal, casting warm, colored light.
Copper and Brass: Hammered copper bowls, trays, and coffee pots (like the cezve used for Turkish coffee) are popular decor items.
Carved Wood: Intricately carved wooden furniture and panels, sometimes inlaid with mother-of-pearl or metal, are common.
Marble: Used extensively in architecture and interior elements, from floors to hammam (bath) interiors.
Market-Inspired Decor: Items like colorful ceramic bowls, embroidered textiles, and ornate metalwork, reminiscent of the bustling bazaars of Turkey.
Incorporating Turkish design elements into a space brings with it a sense of timeless beauty and a rich tapestry of cultural influences, from the bustling streets of Istanbul to the serene beaches of its coastline. Each piece, pattern, and color tells a story of Turkey’s diverse heritage and tradition.
The Energy of Turkish Style
The energy of Turkish style interior design is deeply rooted in its rich cultural heritage, reflecting the country’s position at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, bridging diverse civilizations over the millennia. Here’s an exploration of the energy and ambiance this style evokes:
Cultural Fusion: The energy in Turkish interiors speaks of synthesis and harmony, amalgamating Byzantine, Ottoman, Persian, and Central Asian influences. This union of styles exudes an aura of both familiarity and exoticism.
Warmth and Hospitality: Turkish culture values warmth and hospitality, and this sentiment is palpable in their interior design. Spaces are meant to be welcoming, with comfortable seating, inviting colors, and an emphasis on communal areas.
Sensory Depth: Turkish design provides a multisensory experience. The textures, from plush rugs to intricate tiles, combined with the rich aromas of Turkish coffee and incense, create an atmosphere of sensory immersion.
Historical Resonance: There’s an energy of timelessness in Turkish interiors, reminiscent of grand palaces, bustling bazaars, and serene hammams. Elements like Iznik tiles or Ottoman motifs connect spaces to a storied past.
Mysticism and Spirituality: Turkey’s Sufi traditions and spiritual heritage bring a mystical energy to its interiors. Elements like ornate lanterns casting patterned shadows and the intricate geometric designs often have deeper spiritual meanings, promoting contemplation and introspection.
Natural Connection: Many elements of Turkish design, from the colors to the materials, draw inspiration from nature — the seas, landscapes, and flora. This connection brings a grounded, earthy energy to Turkish interiors.
Dynamic Vitality: Just as Turkey’s bazaars are lively and dynamic, Turkish interiors have a vivacity to them. Bold colors, varied patterns, and the play of light and shadow make spaces feel alive and vibrant.
Balance and Harmony: Despite the rich patterns and bold colors, there’s a sense of balance in Turkish design. This harmony is achieved through thoughtful arrangement, symmetry, and the strategic use of neutrals and open spaces.
In essence, the energy of Turkish style interior design is a harmonious blend of history, culture, and sensory richness. It evokes feelings of warmth, connection, and timeless beauty, resonating with both the heart and the senses.
Turkish Style Design
Here are some examples of Edesigns I created to express the art, science and energy of Turkish style using my own art.
This design was inspired by the photo of Byzantine architecture and the Turkish area rug I also incorporated my Great Conjunction Fractal art. as the colors and shapes were perfect for Turkish Style.
The design highlights Turkish tiles on the floor, Moroccan lighting, and a beautiful Turkish rug. Arched windows, and a Turkish chandelier add to the look. Kilim inspired and global style pillows against a modern sofa create a nice contrast. The simple Bamboo tables have a rustic feeling and are eco-friendly.
To get the look, you could go all out and incorporate all the elements or you can add some key elements to your existing decor.
If you want to get the look with more neutral colored walls, you could go with an off white or sand color to keep the look of the colors of the desert, and emphasize the grace and light of Byzantine architecture.
How is Turkish Style Different?
How is Turkish Style different from other global styles? See my blog articles on the other styles to learn more.
Your takeaway is that by changing some of the elements in your existing design, you can work towards creating a certain global style. Or you can have a mix of elements for a more “Bohemian Style”. More on that to come.
Let's Create Your Global Style Design
Are you ready to elevate your home to a whole new level of greatness? Picture it – a space that not only looks amazing but also feels incredible and uplifts you to be your best self. Can you imagine that perfect space tailored just for you?
That’s what my approach, Aligned Design, is all about. It’s a blend of three powerful factors: art, science, and energy. When these elements come together, that’s where the real magic unfolds.
Imagine being surrounded by a space that mirrors your sense of beauty and colors that resonate with you. On top of that, imagine fine-tuning the energy of your environment to boost your prosperity, well-being, love, and personal expression. This alignment doesn’t just make your space amazing – it syncs you with the universe, empowering you to lead your best life and make a positive impact on the world.
And guess what? Global style Interior Design is a key player in this journey of creating your dream space – a space that’s uniquely you and wonderfully aligned with your aspirations.
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I’m not familiar with Turkish design, very informative and beautiful images too!
Thank you so much Carla!
Your posts on global style always have me itching to travel LOL! I’ve had Turkey on my list, but have never been – great inspiration here!
Thank you! I have not been there either and would love to go too!! I would be in heaven to see the real thing.
It’s great to hear about the differences in all the styles you’re going over Mary Ann. I love turkish colors. So saturated and rich.
Thank you! I love that about global style in general. Most love color and texture and are not afraid to use them:) And the colors fit in with the landscaping there perfectly.
Such pretty renderings, Mary Ann! I enjoyed this post.
Thank you Leslie!
I love the warm tones in the first one, and I love how you use the same space to explain the different looks!
Thanks so much! I prefer the rich colors on the walls myself!
I am really enjoying this series and a bit of a trip around the world from a designer’s point of view. The color palettes here are so warm and inviting.
Wonderful, thank you! I have been having fun trying different themes and ideas in the same room so you can easily compare.
While I do like elements of this style, it is not my personal favourite.
That being said, the way you have pulled together your virtual space is really gorgeous!
Thank you so much! The colors of this style are not my favorite compared to some other styles but I still really enjoy the rich earthiness of it:) Reminds me of the desert.
Loving the rich colors and patterns in the rugs and art!
Thank you so much!
Great post and I enjoy seeing how you take the same environment and give it a completely new look by changing the colors and design elements. Well done!
Thanks so much! As I am sure you of all people know, color is like the magic secret sauce:)