Inspired by a recent design brief, we’ve explored the cultural significance and history of the Majlis. In this post, we explain what a Majlis is, why it’s so important to Arabic culture, and what you should consider if designing a Majlis in your home.
What is a Majlis?
A Majlis, or ‘sitting place’, is a meeting or social space, where groups gather to discuss news, plan events, negotiate, console, celebrate and socialise. In Abu Dhabi, the traditional Majlis was established with the conception of the Silk Route. It was a tented space, used for business meetings, where Arabian hospitality was provided before negotiations. Now, it often refers to the largest room in a home, commonly used for entertaining guests.
Visually, it is spacious, filled with comfortable seating that frames a focal point; traditionally, a stove or fire is used to prepare coffee, but a more modern space may use furniture or statement lighting to bring attention to the room’s centre.
Why are Majlis important?
In Arabic and Middle Eastern cultures, Majlis represent community, hospitality and social solidarity. The Majlis hosts gatherings for decision-making, problem-solving and significant events, including weddings. A welcoming and comfortable environment plays an essential role, as these gatherings often continue for several hours. Hosts offer guests refreshments and treat them with warmth, while younger family members learn the community’s values and traditions.
Designing a Majlis
Fundamental to any Majlis interior design is functionality and aesthetic. It must be inviting, able to seat many guests and uphold elements of tradition.
Natural materials help create a calm atmosphere, which matters because the room encourages free speech and constructive conversation. Incorporating organic materials, like a large marble coffee table, can put nature at the heart of a Majlis.
Many Majlis’ couple natural elements with traditional decoration, like calligraphy, statement art pieces, or tiles featuring geometric patterns.
Low seating is common in a traditional Majlis, so attendees can sit comfortably with folded legs. Many modern Majlis designs use sofas and chairs for more adaptability, and to suit the host’s preferences and needs for their home.
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Large Modular Contemporary Corner Sofa£34,388.00 -
Contemporary Curved Velvet Sofa£17,882.00
As important to consider is what not to feature in a Majlis. Modern gadgets, especially televisions, should be avoided because they distract from the intended atmosphere of community and conversation.
Types of Majlis interior design
Majlis designs vary – some use a traditional Arabic or Moroccan style, whilst others incorporate a more modern twist.
The key is considering your personal taste and values at the design stage. Bespoke furniture is a great way to design a unique Majlis that speaks to your preferences.
Arabic Majlis
An Arabic Majlis design is luxurious and alluring. It uses rich textures, opulent patterns, and lavish fabrics for an elaborate, yet comfy, feel.
Detailed carpets and rugs, plush cushions and quality woodwork symbolise Arabic artistic heritage.
Moroccan Majlis
Moroccan Majlis have a more vibrant design, using bold hues, Zellige (Moroccan tiling), and decorative lanterns to speak to Morocco’s colourful culture.
Ornamental mirrors are used in Moroccan Majlis to bring depth and character.
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Large Rococo Style Wall Mirror£5,933.00
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Large Ornate Italian Rococo Dressing Mirror£6,316.00
Modern Majlis
The modern Majlis moulds tradition and contemporary, mixing clean lines, minimalistic decor and a neutral colour palette, with traditional decorative accents.
The result is both stylish and timeless.
Interior design features in a Majlis
We were recently briefed to design a contemporary Majlis and are excited to share our designs with you.
When designing this space, there were important elements we considered to ensure the tradition of the Majlis was not lost.
A Majlis needs plenty of seating
As a large, communal space, seating is key.
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Low Leather Button Upholstered Box SofaPrice range: £2,916.00 through £20,715.00
For this modern Majlis, we chose large, low, inviting sofas to nod to tradition and ensure those gathering immediately felt at home.
Choosing a focal point for your Majlis
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Large White Glass Modern Chandelier£23,196.00
Most Majlis’ feature a focal point. In a traditional setting, this might be a fountain, artwork or fireplace, used to brew ‘gahwa’ (Arabic coffee).
For these modern designs, we used a grand chandelier to draw focus to the middle of the room.
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Large Modern Round ChandelierPrice range: £5,766.96 through £9,206.00
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Hand Blown Glass Chandelier With Flowers£11,190.00
The importance of coffee in a Majlis
A modern Majlis may not include facilities to brew coffee within the space, but by using spacious, stunning coffee tables, the room still functions as a place to display refreshments for guests.
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Modern Marble Low Coffee Table£6,658.00
By placing a coffee table in the middle of the room, and framing it with a regal rug or chandelier, we continued to bring attention to the centre of the space.
Fragrance invites people into a Majlis
Incense burners, or ‘mabkhara’ are important in a traditional Majlis, making the room smell inviting to visitors. Favoured aromas within an Arabic home might include Oud, Saffron and Santalum.
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Extra Large Luxury Sable Onyx Room Diffuser£281.00
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Elegant Coloured Glass Candlestick£789.00
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Lantern Style Murano Glass Lamp£1,056.00
For a more modern twist, we suggest accenting a Majlis design with high-end candle holders, lanterns and candelabras.
Alternatively, if you’d rather avoid burning candles or incense, room diffusers can bring an enticing aroma to a space.
Designing your luxury Majlis
At Juliettes interior design studio, we have 20 years’ of experience transforming homes and bringing our client’s visions to life.
From concept to completion, we consider every detail meticulously, so your home is a true expression of your taste and lifestyle. Get in touch with us to discuss your modern Majlis brief.
