a minute idea
When the Saudi and Spanish national teams meet in Group H of the 2026 World Cup, a unique design narrative unfolds behind them, unlike any other encounter: not a clash of contrasting styles, but a return of a single cultural root to its essence. The Saudi style of decoration—with its Najdi stucco carvings, arches, and geometric motifs—speaks the same visual language as the decorations of the Alhambra Palace in Granada. This is because Arab-Islamic civilization carried this art to Andalusia centuries ago, where it flourished in its most magnificent form. This is the "Andalusian Dialogue": on one side, the rich heritage of Saudi Arabia, with its diverse layers—Najdi (stucco carvings and Diriyah), Hijazi (the traditional windows of Historic Jeddah), and Asiri (the vibrant Asiri Qatt)—and its contemporary renaissance under Vision 2030. On the other side, the Spanish style with its Andalusian-Moorish heritage: the azulejo, stucco carving (yesería), horseshoe arches, and courtyards with fountains. At SMD Interior Design, we see this encounter as one of the campaign's most beautiful stories: the meeting of an origin and a branch that has flourished, giving birth to luxurious Saudi decor with a universal Andalusian sensibility. This guide meticulously and respectfully deconstructs both schools, supported by our extensive experience in our projects and our dedicated blog , and then shows you how to translate them into your space.
The Saudi style is a school of authentic Arab heritage with three layers: Najdi (the stucco and mud-brick carvings of Diriyah), Hijazi (the traditional architecture of historic Jeddah and coral stone), and Asiri (the vibrant Asiri Qatt), all infused with a contemporary renaissance under Vision 2030. The Spanish style, on the other hand, draws its inspiration from the Andalusian-Moorish heritage: azulejo (glazed tiles), stucco carving (yesería), horseshoe arches, muqarnas, and courtyards with fountains. Remarkably, both styles share a common root: the Najdi stucco carving is the same as the red yesería. Therefore, their fusion is not a fabrication but a harmonious blend: a warm, earthy base (70%), natural materials like stucco, terracotta, and wood (20%), and a touch of geometric ornamentation or azulejo (10%). A comprehensive guide from SMD Decoration for homes and restaurants.
On the green rectangle, a clash unfolds between the Saudi national team and the European champions; but in the world of design, it is the campaign's deepest and most heartfelt dialogue, for it is a meeting of civilizations in all their breadth. When the Arabs and Muslims ruled Andalusia for nearly eight centuries, they brought with them the arts of Islamic architecture and decoration—stucco carving, arabesque, horseshoe arches, muqarnas, and courtyards with fountains—which flourished in the Alhambra Palace in Granada, the Great Mosque of Cordoba, and the palaces of Seville, later blending with local architecture in what became known as the Mudéjar style. The result is that what we see today in the Spanish Andalusian style is a direct cousin of what we see in the Najdi Saudi style: the same stucco work, the same geometry, and the same love for courtyard, shade, and water. The discerning designer does not see here two competing styles, but rather a root and a branch complementing each other: from Saudi Arabia comes the authenticity of tradition, the generosity of the majlis (traditional gathering place), and the authenticity of the earth; and from Andalusia comes the refinement of decoration, the vibrancy of the azulejo (traditional Moroccan seating area), and the warmth of the Mediterranean courtyard. To understand the subtle differences between design schools in general, our guide on the difference between modern, contemporary and classical design will be helpful . For a deeper understanding of Islamic ornamentation, our article " What is Islamic Ornamentation and Where Does It Stand Out in Andalusia ?" will be helpful .
The Saudi style of interior design is based on a rich regional heritage, built on three complementary layers. The Najdi layer in the center: the mud-brick architecture of Diriyah and At-Turaif, with their thick walls, geometric plasterwork (triangles and repeating shapes), triangular openings, and mashrabiyas (latticed windows), all with a warm, austere geometric beauty. The Hijazi layer on the Red Sea: the mashrabiyas of historic Jeddah (Al-Balad)—those projecting, perforated wooden windows—coral stone, and elegant high-rise buildings reflecting a spirit of commerce and openness. The Asiri layer in the south: Al-Qatt Al-Asiri, the vibrant geometric wall art created by the women of Asir in cheerful colors. Above these layers comes the contemporary renaissance of Vision 2030, which is revitalizing Diriyah and Al-Ula, transforming heritage into modern luxury. The color palette combines desert sand and Najdi earth tones with gold and the lively touches of Al-Qatt Al-Asiri. For a deeper understanding, we've compiled specialized guides: Saudi Architecture Between Heritage and Modernity and Vision 2030 , Home Saudi Mihrab Decor , Secrets of Saudi Decor's Beauty , and Contemporary Arabic Majlis Decor . It's a style that celebrates tradition and generosity, but—when used effectively—it's an organized authenticity, not a chaotic one.
On the other side stands the Spanish style, which draws its deepest aesthetics from the Andalusian-Moorish heritage. Its most famous element is azulejo (glazed tiles): glazed ceramic tiles in blue, white, and gold, with geometric and floral motifs, covering walls, courtyards, and staircases. Alongside it is stucco carving (yesería), which adorns the Alhambra Palace with breathtaking precision—the same stucco art we know in Najd—as well as horseshoe arches, muqarnas, and ornate wooden ceilings (artesonado). The spirit of the Spanish style revolves around the patio: the heart of the house, open to the sky with its fountain, plants, and shade, a direct extension of the Arab-Islamic courtyard. The picture is completed with terracotta, wrought iron, Mediterranean white walls, and olive wood. The color palette combines terracotta and Mediterranean white with azulejo blue and gold, and touches of green from the courtyard. Given this style's close ties to its Moorish roots, our guides on Moroccan decor and Mediterranean style are helpful . It is a style that trusts that decoration, water, and shade make a warm, living home.
Before we delve into the comparison, it's worth noting what sets this article apart from all the campaign discussions: the two styles are not unfamiliar. Najdi stucco carving and Andalusian stucco carving (yesería) are a single craft with a common origin. Arabesque and geometric ornamentation are a shared language. Horseshoe arches and muqarnas are common motifs. The courtyard with its fountain and shade is an Arab-Islamic tradition that flourished in Andalusia and has returned to us. Even Spanish azulejo is closely related to zellige and glazed tiles in our world. Therefore, combining the two styles in one house is not a contrived fusion, but rather a natural reunion of a single design family that was geographically separated but remained spiritually connected. To deepen your understanding of these shared elements, you may find our article on muqarnas in Islamic art and our guide on Arabic calligraphy and ornamentation in interior design helpful .
We read the two schools element by element meticulously, highlighting what they have in common due to their Andalusian roots, then we summarize in a reference table:
|
The element |
Saudi style |
Spanish (Andalusian) style |
|
Philosophy |
Authentic Arab heritage: Najdi, Hijazi and Asiri + Renaissance 2030. |
Andalusian Dialogue: The Maghreb's Andalusian Heritage + The Warmth of the Mediterranean. |
|
colors |
Desert sand and Najdi earth + gold and lively Asiri touches. |
Terracotta and Mediterranean white + azulejo blue and gold. |
|
raw materials |
Embossed plaster, clay bricks, palm wood, Sadu, coral stone. |
Azulejo (kashani), carved plaster (yesería), terracotta, iron, wood. |
|
decorations |
Najdi geometric patterns (plaster triangles), Roshan, Asiri cat. |
The Alhambra's decoration, arabesque, horseshoe arches, muqarnas. |
|
Lighting |
Copper lanterns and desert light filter through the bay window. |
Lanterns and light filter through the Andalusian mashrabiya/celosía. |
|
Furniture |
Low-profile seating, wooden tables, patterned boxes. |
Leather sofas, decorative wood, elegant rustic Mediterranean furniture. |
|
Craftsmanship |
The crafts of Najd and Jeddah: plaster engraving, roshan, sadu, coral. |
Andalusian crafts: Azulejo, stucco carving, wrought iron. |
|
Hospitality culture |
The majlis, Arabic coffee, and Saudi hospitality. |
The patio, communal food, and Mediterranean warmth. |
|
The employed heritage |
Diriyah, Historic Jeddah, Asir, Vision 2030. |
The Alhambra, the Mosque of Cordoba, Seville, Mudéjar style. |
|
Relationship with nature |
The desert, the oasis, the palm trees, and the Red Sea. |
The Mediterranean, the courtyard with the fountain, and the Andalusian gardens. |
|
The final touch |
The Najdi plasterwork, the glitter of gold, and the vibrancy of the Asiri cat. |
The brilliance of azulejo, the carving of Andalusian plaster, and the warmth of terracotta. |
It is noticeable that the themes of "ornamentation," "craftsmanship," and "relationship with nature" are almost identical in essence—this shared Andalusian root makes the fusion natural. The principle of the golden ratio is useful in interior design for adjusting the visual proportions between elements .
The difference between a space belonging to a specific style and one with a fragmented identity is created by the interplay of materials. This is the essence of our meticulous execution experience with the materials of this dialogue:
|
raw material |
In the Saudi style |
In the Spanish Andalusian style |
|
wood |
خشب نخيل وأبواب منقوشة وروشان حجازي مخرّم. |
Decorative wood, artesonado ceilings, and warm olive wood. |
|
walls/surfaces |
Najdi plasterwork and clay brickwork + a bright Asiri cat. |
Azulejo (cachaçi) and plaster carving (yesería) + white walls. |
|
Minerals |
Hammered copper in lanterns, coffee pots, and trays. |
Andalusian wrought iron in balconies, lamps and gates. |
|
fabrics |
Geometric Sadu, carpets, fabrics in warm earthy colors. |
Mediterranean fabrics, leather, textiles in rich warm colors. |
|
Touches of identity |
Plaster engraving, Roshan, Sadu, Asiri cat. |
Azulejo, horseshoe arches, courtyard fountain. |
Because wood is a central element in both styles—the palm-frond and mashrabiya in Saudi Arabia and the artesonado in Andalusia—our guide on wood types and their properties will help you choose the most suitable type. Lighting is also covered in a separate guide titled " Types of Lighting and Their Importance in Interior Design," given the importance of light filtering through mashrabiyas and latticework in creating ambiance.
Because both styles share a common root, combining them is incredibly easy and aesthetically pleasing. The secret lies in the 70/20/10 rule we apply to every project:
The result is a space where two spirits of the same origin converge in a rare harmony: the rich heritage of Najd combined with the warmth of Andalusia on a shared earthy foundation; an authenticity that doesn't weigh down, and an ornamentation that doesn't overwhelm. This is the spirit of luxurious Saudi interior design with a universal Andalusian interpretation. Because color is at the heart of this dialogue, we delve deeper into its meaning in two guides: the color wheel and the principles of color , and types of wall paint, their advantages, and disadvantages . For more style options in Saudi homes, see our comparison of interior design styles in Saudi homes .
The reception salon is the space where this dialogue truly shines, for it combines the generosity of the Saudi majlis with the warmth of the Andalusian courtyard. Our meticulous approach to designing a salon that blends these two styles:
To delve deeper into seating arrangements and spatial hospitality principles, refer to our guides: Contemporary Arabic Majlis Decorations , Men's Majlis Design , Moroccan Majlis Decoration , Coffee Corner: Ideas and Designs , and for gradual implementation steps, our guide 10 Steps to Interior Decoration .
In villas and houses, this design dialogue allows for a beautiful gradation: an entrance or majlis with a Najdi spirit (plaster carvings, arches, earthy tones) welcoming guests with an authentic Saudi phrase; a living room with Andalusian-Mediterranean warmth (terracotta, azulejo, wood); a modern kitchen with a Saudi touch; and an interior courtyard or corner inspired by the Andalusian patio, complete with plants, water features, and shade. Because cost and details are important to the Saudi client, we have provided detailed, practical guides: the cost of designing the interior of a 150-square-meter house in Saudi Arabia ; the cost of finishing a turnkey villa in Jeddah in 2026 ; modern Saudi kitchens ; and Saudi home mihrab decor . Our residential projects implemented in Saudi Arabia, the Gulf, the Arab region, and Turkey offer real-life examples, which you can view in the residential projects section , watch tours in the video gallery and interactive 360-degree tours , or browse our work by country . For those considering a rest house, our rest house decor guide is helpful .
In the commercial hospitality sector, this design dialogue offers a genuine competitive advantage. A restaurant or hotel with a Saudi Andalusian ambiance (azulejos, stucco carvings, arches, a courtyard with a fountain) creates an authentic and unforgettable spatial experience that transforms the customer into a volunteer photographer—a style very popular in modern Saudi hospitality projects. The most commercially astute approach is the thoughtful integration of a warm, earthy base with striking decorative touches. SMD has implemented solutions in the hospitality sector, which can be reviewed in the Commercial Projects section. Because the client is concerned with project feasibility, our guide on the cost of designing and implementing a coffee shop in Saudi Arabia is helpful . For further inspiration, see our articles on using color in restaurant decor and Modern Restaurant Decor .
SMD Decoration is an interior design and execution company operating since 2017 in Saudi Arabia, the Gulf, the Arab region, and Turkey. We offer a turnkey approach: we begin with a consultation to understand your taste, how you utilize your space, and your desired size for entertaining. Then, we develop a complete vision—a layout plan, a color palette, and materials based on the 70/20/10 principle, balancing Saudi heritage with Andalusian influences. We also create 3D models that allow you to visualize your majlis or lounge before any execution begins. A single team then handles the execution, finishing, and furnishing until your space is ready for you. Whether you prefer the authentic Saudi style, the warm Spanish-Andalusian style, or a blend of both, we translate your taste into a space tailored to your needs. Learn more about our philosophy on our About Us page , view our completed projects , and find answers to your questions on our FAQs page —or contact us directly through our contact page or WhatsApp .
To achieve the best result, avoid these six mistakes:
Then implement a six-step action plan:
The result: a space that confidently celebrates the rich heritage of Saudi Arabia in its three layers, and breathes the warmth of Andalusia and the vibrancy of Azulejo — an authentic, global identity that befits your guests and makes your day comfortable, all rooted in a single civilization.
The match ends with a score, but the Andalusian dialogue between Saudi and Spanish styles doesn't end with a winner and a loser. At its core, it's not a clash, but a reunion of a single design family, geographically separated yet spiritually connected. From Saudi Arabia comes the authenticity of its three layers of heritage, the generosity of the majlis (traditional sitting room), and the authenticity of the earthwork. From Andalusia comes the refinement of ornamentation, the vibrancy of the azulejo (traditional Spanish tilework), and the warmth of the courtyard—both derived from the same stucco patterns and arches. At SMD, we create spaces that harmoniously blend this shared heritage—luxurious Saudi décor with a universal Andalusian sensibility. If this dialogue resonates with you, begin where all beauty begins: with an idea.
Ready for a space that blends the heritage of Riyadh with the charm of Granada? Book your introductory consultation via our contact page or directly through WhatsApp. SMD — SMD Decoration | Everything starts with an idea
🏆 Start your dream project today! The SMD Decoration team is ready to turn your vision into reality.
📞 Call us: +966504986649
📧 Email: info@smddecoration.com
🌐 Contact us now: https://smddecoration.com/contact
If you have a question or inquiry, you can find the answer on the Q&A page.
SMD Decoration | Turkey Decorations | The best interior design company in Istanbul, Turkey
SMD Decoration is an interior design company specializing in interior decoration in Turkey.
We are an interior design company offering a wide range of services in the field of interior design, starting with the design and implementation of Turkish home decor, Turkish decorations for apartments, villas and palaces, and salon decorations.
Even designing and implementing Turkish decorations for commercial projects such as hotels, restaurants, hospitals, schools and universities.
Our designs are characterized by professionalism and passion, and we strive to realize our clients' vision and transform their ideas into a tangible and attractive reality. We believe in the importance of reflecting Turkish identity and culture, as well as Istanbul's décor, in our designs, and we aim to provide our clients with a unique and distinctive experience.
In addition, we offer other services such as installation, upholstery, painting, finishing, renovation and modernization for residential and commercial projects in Istanbul Decor.
We also specialize in the design and implementation of custom furniture and interior furnishings for residential and commercial projects.
We have experience in designing Turkish decorations, implementing interior and exterior lighting in Turkish home decor, and installing electronic systems.
We consider SMD Decoration to be the best decoration company in Turkey, as we provide high-quality services and strive to achieve customer satisfaction.
We work diligently on project implementation, from meticulous planning to final finishing touches, with great attention to detail and precise execution.
SMD Decoration is the best decoration company in Qatar, where creativity and quality are provided in customer service.
SMD Decoration is the best decoration company in the UAE, where interior design and decoration are beyond imagination.
SMD Decoration is the best decoration company in Saudi Arabia and the Arab countries, where innovation and quality are present in every design.
SMD Decoration is the best decoration company in Kuwait, thanks to its experience, efficiency, quality of service, and overall customer satisfaction.
SMD Decoration is the best decoration company in Amman in terms of services, ratings, opinions and prices.
SMD Decoration is the best decoration company in Bahrain, turning ideas into tangible reality.
SMD Decoration is the best decoration company in Libya, where the decoration designs are in line with the latest trends and standards in this field.
SMD Decoration is the best decoration company in Iraq, as it studies various influencing factors to meet customer needs and align with their lifestyles.
SMD Decoration is the best interior design company , as when it receives a specific project it follows up on it from the planning stage in terms of the small details to the final finishing touches.
SMD Decoration is a leading interior design company in Turkey. They offer high-quality space beautification services at competitive prices.
By using the latest technologies and materials, the company ensures the best results for its clients.
The company always aims to meet the needs and desires of customers, and works hard to achieve a design that suits the customer's taste and reflects his personality and needs.
Her professional team works passionately to turn ideas and visions into tangible reality, with great attention to detail and precise execution.
The company believes in the importance of customer experience and strives to ensure complete customer satisfaction.
To contact customer service, please use the customer service numbers.
We would like to emphasize that SMD Decoration, an interior design and decoration company in Turkey, does not use Bitcoin or digital currencies in its business transactions, but accepts payment in paper currency or through bank transfers.
A leading company in the field of interior design and decoration in Türkiye and the Arab region
SMD Interior Design was founded in 2017 in Istanbul, Turkey. Since then, the company has grown to become one of the leading interior design firms in Turkey and the Arab region. The company offers its services worldwide, including interior design for homes, villas, businesses, and other commercial projects. SMD boasts extensive experience in interior design and a team of professional designers who can create unique and beautiful interiors that meet your needs and budget.
Services
SMD Interior Design and Decoration offers a wide range of services, including:
style
SMD Interior Design and Decoration offers a diverse range of design styles, including:
Commitment
SMD Interior Design is committed to providing high-quality services that meet its clients' needs. The company collaborates with clients to understand their needs and goals, then designs interiors that fulfill those needs and goals.
presence
SMD Interior Design and Decoration Company has branches in several important cities in Turkey and the Arab region, including:
Turkish Paints - SMD Latest Turkish Decor - Best Interior Design and Decoration Company in Turkey - Istanbul - Ankara - Bursa - Izmir - Antalya
Decoration company in Istanbul
Interior design and decoration company in Turkey, Istanbul and Trabzon.
Best website for Turkish decoration.
Best website for Turkish decorations in Oman, Kuwait, Bahrain
Paints in Oman - SMD Latest Decorations in Oman - The best decoration and interior design company in Oman - Muscat - Dhofar - North Al Batinah
Kuwait Paints - SMD Latest Kuwait Decor - Best Interior Design and Decoration Company in Kuwait - Kuwait Decor - Ahmadi - Mubarak Al-Kabeer
Bahrain Paints - SMD Latest Bahrain Decor - Best Interior Design and Decoration Company in Bahrain - Manama Decor - West Riffa - Hamad
Qatar Paints - SMD Latest Qatar Decor - Best Interior Design and Decoration Company in Qatar - Doha Decor
Interior design company in Doha
Interior design and decoration company in Lusail, Doha
Best website for interior design in Qatar
Emirates Paints - SMD Latest Emirates Decor - Best Interior Design and Decoration Company in the UAE - Dubai - Abu Dhabi - Sharjah Decor
Best website for UAE decor
Saudi Paints - SMD, an interior design and decoration company in Riyadh, Jeddah, Mecca, and Medina.
Contact us via phone number.
00966504986649
The best website for decorations in Saudi Arabia
: https://www.smddecoration.sa/
Libya Paints - SMD Latest Decorations in Libya - The Best Interior Design and Decoration Company in Libya - Tripoli - Benghazi - Misrata
Best website for interior design in Libya
Iraq Paints - SMD Latest Decorations in Iraq - The Best Interior Design and Decoration Company in Iraq - Baghdad - Najaf - Erbil Decorations
Best website for Iraqi decor
it is an authentic Arab style built on three regional layers Najdi design, with carved plasterwork and mudbrick architecture in Diriyah; Hijazi design, with the rawashin of Historic Jeddah and coral stone; and Asiri design, with the vibrant Al-Qatt Al-Asiri art. Today, this heritage is being revived through a contemporary renaissance inspired by Vision 2030, blending tradition with modern luxury.
it is an authentic Arab style built on three regional layers Najdi design, with carved plasterwork and mudbrick architecture in Diriyah; Hijazi design, with the rawashin of Historic Jeddah and coral stone; and Asiri design, with the vibrant Al-Qatt Al-Asiri art. Today, this heritage is being revived through a contemporary renaissance inspired by Vision 2030, blending tradition with modern luxury.
Because both styles share one civilizational root. Arab-islamic civilization carried the arts of architecture and ornamentation to Andalusia, where they flourished in the Alhambra Palace. The same visual language—carved plasterwork, arabesque, arches, and courtyards—remains alive in Saudi design today.
They are crafts with a shared origin. The geometric plaster carving found in Najd belongs to the same artistic family as the yesería that adorns the Alhambra Palace, making their combination within one home natural, harmonious, and visually coherent.
Azulejo is glazed ceramic tile decorated with geometric and floral patterns, often in blue, white, and gold. it is widely used on walls, courtyards, and staircases in Andalusian Spanish homes, and it is closely related to zellige in the Arab world.
Because both styles share one civilizational root. Arab-islamic civilization carried the arts of architecture and ornamentation to Andalusia, where they flourished in the Alhambra Palace. The same visual language—carved plasterwork, arabesque, arches, and courtyards—remains alive in Saudi design today.
Because both styles share one civilizational root. Arab-islamic civilization carried the arts of architecture and ornamentation to Andalusia, where they flourished in the Alhambra Palace. The same visual language—carved plasterwork, arabesque, arches, and courtyards—remains alive in Saudi design today.
The Hijazi style is the architecture of western Saudi Arabia along the Red Sea. its most famous element is the roshan a projecting, carved wooden window found in Historic Jeddah’s Al-Balad district. it provides privacy, softens sunlight, improves airflow, and adds a refined handcrafted beauty.
Use the 70/20/10 rule 70% warm earthy tones as the base, 20% natural materials such as plaster, terracotta, and wood, and 10% as a standout decorative accent—such as azulejo tiles, geometric plasterwork, or a horseshoe arch. Their shared cultural root makes the fusion smooth and elegant.
Al-Qatt Al-Asiri is a vibrant geometric wall art tradition from the Asir region in southern Saudi Arabia, created by women using joyful colors and bold patterns. it is recognized on heritage lists and adds a lively, distinctive touch to contemporary Saudi interiors.
Al-Qatt Al-Asiri is a vibrant geometric wall art tradition from the Asir region in southern Saudi Arabia, created by women using joyful colors and bold patterns. it is recognized on heritage lists and adds a lively, distinctive touch to contemporary Saudi interiors.
A warm earthy base works best Najdi sand tones, Mediterranean white, and soft terracotta, enriched with azulejo blue, touches of gold, a courtyard-inspired green accent, and the vibrant energy of Al-Qatt Al-Asiri when desired.
Yes. Saudi Arabia is a core market for SMD Decoration, which has been operating since 2017 across the Kingdom, the Gulf, the Arab region, and Turkey through turnkey design-and-build services, with remote design options available. We also provide detailed Saudi cost guides on our blog.
Cosmetic enhancements can be completed within one to two days, while a full redesign with execution usually takes between two and eight weeks, depending on the project scope and level of finishing. You can find detailed cost information in our Saudi guides.
en 
Türkçe
العربية