Roots rugs by Inma Bermúdez for Gan

The latest trend in rug design emphasizes the importance of borders, transforming these floor coverings into pieces of art. This spring, several prominent designers and brands have released new rug collections that draw inspiration from diverse sources, including Frank Lloyd Wright's architecture, Viennese Art Deco, and children's books. The common thread among these collections is the focus on the rug's edges, utilizing graphic motifs, architectural elements, cinematic references, and two-tone color palettes to create distinct and impactful designs. Athena Calderone's "Salon" collection for Beni Rugs, inspired by her Tribeca home and European travels, showcases unique shapes, grids, and lines with a strong emphasis on intriguing borders. Calderone values the edge as much as the center of the rug, and the collection introduces a new low-pile style for Beni. Notable designs within this collection, such as "Fassade" and "Deco," directly reference specific architectural facades and museum walls, giving each rug a rich backstory and visual depth. Cold Picnic's "Audience/Embrace" line offers rugs and runners with two distinct conceptual approaches: being watched and being held. These designs, made from 100 percent TEX New Zealand wool with cotton backing, feature recurring eye patterns for "Audience" and outstretched arm motifs for "Embrace," drawing inspiration from folklore, children's books, and cinema. The hand-sheared finish adds a sculptural quality. Cold Picnic also launched a washable line inspired by MFK Fisher's book, "How to Cook a Wolf," designed for high-traffic areas, and a collaboration with the Brooklyn Museum featuring a random sheared interpretation of Japanese artist Utagawa Hiroshige's cherry blossom prints. Josh Greene's "Arcadia" collection, in partnership with Marc Phillips Rugs, pays homage to Frank Lloyd Wright’s Usonian homes, characterized by low-slung architecture, local materials, natural light, and integration with nature. The six hand-knotted, sun-washed wool designs incorporate elements reminiscent of carved stone found in Wright's houses, with the "Gordon" and "Kinney" rugs particularly highlighting strong borders. The collection maintains a geometric focus, with the "Duncan" rug featuring a multihued grid. Block Shop, a well-established name in rug design, has expanded its offerings with the "Trellis" and "Ripple" rugs. The "Trellis" rug, a 100 percent jute flat-weave with a textured pattern, became highly requested after its initial creation for their Los Angeles shop. The "Ripple" rug, a jute-wool blend, continues the border trend with a playful, wiggly edge available in neutral and ochre color options. Both styles are ethically produced by V-Weave, a family-run weaving cooperative in India using traditional materials. Arvin Olano's collaboration with Rugs USA, featuring 22 designs, includes standout rugs that emphasize borders. Olano, a content creator known for approachable design, presents the two-tone "Gino" (100 percent wool) and the "Petra," which features a stamped-like quality. Both are handmade flat-weaves from India. Finally, Brigette Romanek's spring collection for Loloi features the "Orly" rug, the only design with a border, inspired by the veining in stone. The "Orly" rug, available in heathered colorways like natural and ink, with clay being a favored option, offers a subtly depressed detail around its edge, providing visual definition. These hand-loomed wool and viscose rugs are GoodWeave certified, underscoring a commitment to ethical production. #RugDesign #HomeDecor #InteriorDesignTrends #BorderedRugs #DesignerCollaborations #HandmadeRugs #TextileArt #SpringCollection #EthicalProduction

Beni Rugs has launched its latest collection, the Flamingo Estate series, drawing inspiration from a historic Los Angeles home. This property, built in the 1940s, was once a hub for psychedelic experimentation and sun worship, and more recently underwent a glamorous transformation by Studio KO. The collection is a collaborative effort between Beni Rugs' cofounders, Robert Wright and Tiberio Lobo-Navia, and Richard Christiansen, the owner of the Flamingo Estate and its eponymous home-goods brand. The 13 unique floor-covering designs in the series are direct interpretations of various decorative elements found throughout the Flamingo Estate. These motifs range from the property's distinct brickwork and lush garden flora to the vibrant patterns of its leopard-spot upholstery. Each rug design is crafted to evoke a specific feature or experience within the estate, creating a tangible connection to its character and history. For instance, the "Cactus Pool" rug channels the serene aesthetics of a lapis-lined water feature nestled in the estate's garden. "Breakfast Table" is a design that reinterprets a striped-wood dining area, capturing the essence of morning gatherings. The "Bathhouse Reflection" rug aims to evoke the play of light cast through the blue stained-glass windows of the bathhouse, creating a sense of ethereal beauty. Meanwhile, "Pavilion Tiles" is a direct homage to the graphic patterns found on the kitchen counters, translating architectural detail into a soft furnishing. These designs are offered in two or three distinct colorways, providing variety to suit different interior palettes. Each rug is handcrafted in Morocco using high-quality wool, reflecting Beni Rugs' commitment to traditional craftsmanship and natural materials. Furthermore, customers have the option to specify custom sizes, allowing for tailored integration into diverse spaces. The collection not only showcases innovative rug design but also tells a story of a unique property, blending historical charm with contemporary luxury. #BeniRugs #FlamingoEstate #RugDesign #InteriorDesign #LosAngelesHome #StudioKO #HandcraftedRugs #MoroccanCraftsmanship

Spanish designer Patricia Urquiola has developed the Bandas collection for Gan, a range of rugs and complementary furniture pieces that showcase oversized stitching patterns. This collection is part of Gan's new concept, Gan Spaces, which aims to offer versatility in interior design by allowing the same floor coverings to be utilized for upholstering furniture and various accessories. The core idea behind Bandas is to enable users to effortlessly alter the appearance and functionality of their living spaces. The Bandas collection features long, narrow wool rugs characterized by large, distinct stitches that create a grid-like pattern across their surfaces. Further detailing is achieved through even chunkier lines in contrasting colors, adding visual depth and texture to the designs. The aesthetic palette for these rugs includes background colors such as light grey, faded pink, cream, and black, which are thoughtfully combined with vibrant patterns in orange, yellow, and blue, creating a dynamic interplay of hues. Beyond just rugs, these distinctive textile strips are ingeniously integrated into a series of modular furniture. This includes blocky modular seats, where the patterned fabrics run in lengths along the top surfaces and elegantly wrap around two sides. The furniture collection itself comprises a chair, a chaise longue, and two sizes of pouf, all designed to complement the rug designs. A consistent design element across the collection is the use of orange lines, which serve as border details along the edges of both the rugs and the seating units. The construction of the seating elements involves sturdy wooden frames covered with foam rubber, ensuring both comfort and durability. The sides of the furniture not adorned with the patterned Bandas textiles are covered in a neutral grey wool, providing a cohesive and balanced look. Crucially, each seat and rug within the Bandas collection shares the same width. This standardization allows for seamless and versatile arrangement possibilities, empowering users to create diverse configurations to suit different spaces and preferences. Additionally, a series of matching cushions has been designed to fit perfectly with the furniture pieces, enhancing both comfort and aesthetic harmony within the overall collection. #PatriciaUrquiola #GanRugs #BandasCollection #ModularFurniture #HomewareDesign #InteriorDesign #WoolRugs #TextileDesign #HomeDecoration

The Ambiente, Handcrafted Rugs, an atelier specializing in consciously-designed rugs, draws its name from the concept of 'ambience,' reflecting its belief that a rug significantly influences the atmosphere of a living space. The brand aims to encapsulate the diverse characteristics and mood of a surrounding through its products. Each handcrafted rug is a blend of rich craftsmanship and modern, seamless design, featuring playful textures and colorful yarns created using various traditional weaving techniques. A key commitment of the brand is the exclusive use of hypoallergenic natural fibers in their carpets. The Ambiente operates under the umbrella of Bhadohi Carpets, a prominent 35-year-old manufacturer and exporter in the Indian carpet industry. This parent company boasts an extensive network of over 10,000 artisans spread across 49 weaving centers, providing a strong foundation for The Ambiente's operations and expertise in carpet manufacturing. The brand was co-founded by Avani Khandelwal and her brother-in-law Ayush Baranwal. Avani, originally from Jaipur, brings a deep interest in design, craft, and culture to the venture. Their motivation stemmed from identifying a gap in the Indian market for genuine, handmade rugs that offered a balance of quality and accessible pricing. The Ambiente, Handcrafted Rugs was thus established with the mission to make the luxury of handwoven rugs available to a broader Indian clientele. Embodying the established values and strengths of its parent company, The Ambiente positions itself as a new-generation luxury rug atelier. Its design philosophy centers on creating rugs that align with current trends, encompassing styles from modern and vintage to boho and neoclassical. The brand prioritizes both the functional utility and aesthetic appeal of its rugs, aiming to cater to a wide range of customers with varying tastes and needs. For its exhibition at ADDS 2024, The Ambiente, Handcrafted Rugs plans to unveil two significant collections. The 'Saga' collection will feature high-end pure silk rugs, designed to evoke a regal and enchanting aura. Alongside this, the 'Neo' collection will present rugs characterized by intricate weaves, subtle colors, and soft textures. The brand also intends to showcase a distinct statement piece at the event, further highlighting its design capabilities and unique offerings. #HandcraftedRugs #HomeDecor #LuxuryRugs #IndianCraftsmanship #InteriorDesign #ADDesignShow #ArtisanProducts #TextileDesign

Joon Loloi, an extension of Loloi's home furnishing offerings, has launched its inaugural collaboration with Seattle-based interior designer Heidi Caillier. This collection introduces over 30 pieces, primarily bespoke rugs and throw pillows, reflecting Caillier's signature timeless aesthetic and affinity for patterns. Caillier, known for her design work, including projects that have garnered attention from figures like Joanna Gaines, designed these pieces with a focus on integrating them into a family home setting, specifically showcasing them within her own residence. This approach highlights the versatility and livability of the collection. The collaboration emphasizes layered looks within interior design. For example, Caillier incorporated the Mayla rug, characterized by its antique touches, into her living room, and the Lilette rug, noted for its vibrant hues, into her sons' bedroom. The collection features a variety of materials and constructions, ranging from hand-tufted wool to natural jute, catering to different textural preferences and functional needs. A notable inclusion is Loloi's CloudPile rugs, which are praised for their softness underfoot. Caillier's collection offers three CloudPile options, appealing to those who prioritize comfort and a plush feel. Each item in the collection, whether a rug or a pillow, possesses a distinct pattern and style, allowing for individualized room refreshes while maintaining a cohesive collaboration. The Lindy Hand Tufted Wool Rug, inspired by Scandinavian design, features a boxy yet floral pattern that adds texture without overwhelming a space. It is made of 100% hand-tufted wool. The Ginna CloudPile Printed Rug combines the plush feel of CloudPile with an antique pattern and is designed to be resistant to shedding, making it suitable for high-traffic areas. The Mayla CloudPile Printed Rug offers a neutral option with a subtle, faded floral pattern, power-loomed for durability and ease of care. Beyond rugs, the collection extends to throw pillows designed to complement the rug offerings. The Kayleigh Lumbar Pillow provides both style and support, available as a cover or with poly or down inserts. The Liam Pillow, with its denim-inspired layered geometric design, aims to add a lived-in feel to sofas or armchairs. The Kate Pillow, offered in Clay or Wheat colorways, serves as an all-purpose throw pillow with a double-flange edge, adding a subtle pattern to a neutral design. The Rainier Rug, named after a Washington mountain, introduces a checkerboard pattern in an earthy palette, aligning with current design trends. The Dana Pillow incorporates a nostalgic, hand-embroidered aesthetic with a floral design and fringe trim. Finally, the Shrader Jute Rug provides natural textures ideal for layering, while the Aster Rug, adorned with storybook-style roses, offers a romantic touch for various rooms, featuring a low pile suitable for placement under furniture. The collaboration presents diverse options for home decoration, blending timeless aesthetics with contemporary comfort and style. The pieces are designed to be integrated into different home environments, offering both aesthetic appeal and practical considerations like durability and ease of maintenance. #HeidiCaillier #JoonLoloi #RugCollection #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #ThrowPillows #NostalgiaInspired #CloudPileRugs #ScandinavianDesign

The article profiles Martha Magane, a retired librarian who discovered a new creative career in rug making after retiring in 2011. Her journey began with a book that rekindled a childhood interest in sewing, stemming from disassembling and repairing her grandmother's 1930s-era sewing machine at a young age. Initially, Magane aspired to create her own clothing, but a sewing project in a book—making “chenille” from denim remnants—captured her attention, leading her to explore the technique of layering stacks of fabric, sewing diagonal channels, and then cutting them open to reveal the inner layers. Magane sourced her initial fabrics from the Truro Swap Shack, where she found upholstery fabric samples, providing a wider range of colors than denim. Her process involves stacking, sewing, and then vigorously brushing the cut edges by hand to fray and soften the chenille. These fuzzy, colorful panels are then backed with denim and assembled into rugs, typically around three by five feet. She washes and scrubs the finished rugs to further loosen fibers and shed lint, followed by trimming the surface to even out the pile. This meticulous process ensures a high-quality, durable product. In the early stages of her rug-making, Magane produced numerous pieces, prompting her to consider selling them at craft fairs. However, she soon realized her passion lay more in the creation process than in selling. Her rugs, branded as Slash Products, are now available at Repurfect in Provincetown and Adorn in East Orleans. Over the past decade, her designs have evolved from simple pieced squares to wider, longer strips featuring intricate, Klimt-esque patterns. She finds inspiration in nature, observing how colors and shapes naturally behave in the environment, and integrates these observations into her designs, often using blues with bright contrasting elements. Magane primarily uses thick fabrics like winter scarves and woven blankets, which she finds at thrift shops, as they produce the best chenille effect. Each rug is unique because she works with found and donated materials, making replication impossible. Her tools include a heavy-duty serger, electric scissors, and a sturdy “walking foot” sewing machine capable of handling thick fabric stacks and heavier threads. The work demands solitude and patience, qualities Magane embraces. Additionally, her creative endeavors extend beyond rug making; she memorizes songs for performances with the Outer Cape Chorale while engaged in the repetitive, meditative tasks of stitching, cutting, and brushing the fabric. #MarthaMagane #RugMaking #TextileArt #Upcycling #HandmadeRugs #CreativeProcess #HomeDecor #FabricCrafts #OuterCape

The rug industry is experiencing a renaissance, marked by an explosion of color, innovative designs, and diverse materials that elevate rugs beyond mere floor coverings to significant elements of interior design. This evolution is driven by various designers and brands introducing collections that showcase artistic expression, functionality, and sustainability. Julia Buckingham's "Raindrop" rug for Global Views exemplifies this trend with its vibrant gem colors, injecting energy into dramatic spaces characterized by white walls and high ceilings. The rug's whimsical design is complemented by a tea light chandelier, also from Buckingham's collection, creating a cohesive and lively aesthetic. Cedric Ragot's "Focus" rug for Roche Bobois presents a strong, geometric design with a sculpted appearance, mimicking tile inlays. Hand-tufted from pure New Zealand wool, this circular rug highlights the incorporation of architectural and textural elements into rug design. Hair-on-hide rugs have gained popularity, particularly those with sophisticated patchwork effects. Restoration Hardware's "Hexa" hide rug, part of the Ben Soleimani collection, uses premium hair-on cowhide tiles, hand-cut and pieced together to form a richly textured mosaic. These tiles, dyed while retaining natural tonal variations, offer a silky feel underfoot, combining luxury with a unique visual appeal. Golran's Lake collection, designed by Yael Mer and Shay Alkalay of Raw Edges, draws inspiration from optical art, featuring an iridescent quality that changes with the light, akin to a lake's surface. Based on traditional kilim techniques but incorporating varying pile heights, these rugs have received multiple design awards, underscoring their innovative blend of tradition and modernity. SHIIR rugs, designed by Shea Soucie and Martin Horner, emphasize embellishment and embroidery on flat-woven backgrounds. One notable silk flat-weave features a classic Moorish tile motif with delicate silk embroidery, showcasing intricate craftsmanship and elegant patterns. Doris Leslie Blau offers a Nepalese hand-knotted rug that resembles a modern painting, with an ivory wool background and blue silk pile, providing a strong artistic statement in a room. Another design from Doris Leslie Blau is a striking Turkish modernist kilim called Elmer, which creates an almost three-dimensional effect with black weaves appearing to pop from a colored ground. Handwoven from 100 percent wool, this flat-weave design honors centuries-old techniques while achieving a contemporary look. Roche Bobois's "Himal" rug, hand-knotted in Nepal from 100 percent Himalayan wool, stands out with bold colors and a distinctive high-low pile weaving technique. Feizy's hand-tufted "St. Germaine" rug from the John F collection, made of viscose in India, offers versatility with its mixed color palette, allowing for diverse decor integrations. NIBA's new flat-weave collection, including the "Treillage plaids," is characterized by its thin profile due to the absence of knots, making it ideal for stair runners and high-traffic areas. These rugs are customizable in fiber, color, and size, reflecting a demand for personalized home furnishings. Another NIBA design, a large-scale organic rug named "Jasmine," features plant fronds in bold colors, made from allo and wool, serving as a grounding element for room decor. Fashion designer Sybilla's contributions to Nanimarquina's "Melange" collection include contemporary kilims made from spun Afghan wool, featuring signature elements like red borders and diamonds that add a unique flair to classic designs. GAN's "Silai" collection by Charlotte Lancelot showcases hand-loomed rugs that mimic upscale knitting and embroidery, reflecting a focus on tactile qualities and craftwork. Artist Madeline Weinrib's atelier features a coexistence of new and old cotton flat-weaves, handwoven in India, renowned for their graphic impact and effortless chic, with designs such as "Blue Lulu," "Indigo Samosa," "Indigo Wesley," and "Indigo Darlington." Safavieh presents a geometric rug with a faded, worn look achieved through a dip-dyeing process. Made of 100 percent premium hand-tufted wool with traditional Moroccan motifs, it is dyed twice to create color gradations. Thomas O'Brien's "Guru" rug for Safavieh, made of knotted wool, showcases subtlety through an abstracted tonal pattern. ABC Carpet and Home offers a unique hand-knotted rug from India, made of hand-spun silk and overdyed in fiery hues, resembling a watercolor painting inspired by the ocean. This piece creates an enchanting composition of iridescent patterns. Nikki Chu's collection for Jaipur combines metallic fibers with black jute yarn to achieve subtle sheen and depth, with a focus on neutral palettes like gray and black that revitalize natural fibers and simplify global tribal patterns. Overall, the contemporary rug market is characterized by a blend of artistic innovation, diverse material use, and customizability, offering a broad spectrum of choices for enhancing interior spaces with unique textures, colors, and patterns. #RugDesign #HomeDecor #InteriorDesignTrends #TextileArt #HandmadeRugs #ModernRugs #ContemporaryDesign #MaterialInnovation #ArtisticRugs

Adding texture is a fundamental aspect of interior design, crucial for creating a dynamic and inviting living space. It encompasses a wide array of surfaces and materials, ranging from furniture finishes like metallic, wood, brushed, or upholstered, to various textiles, wall treatments, and floor coverings. The successful integration of these textural elements, as highlighted by interior design expert Darren Palmer, orchestrates a harmonious 'symphony' within a room, elevating its aesthetic beyond mere decorative additions. Stylist Jessica Bellef of Temple and Webster offers nine practical methods to infuse texture and soften a home's appearance. One effective strategy is incorporating rugs, particularly those with high piles, tassels, or fringing. Rugs introduce tactile warmth and can significantly alter a room's feel, with bonus points for layering multiple styles to enhance textural depth. Another approach involves integrating natural elements such as foraged pampas grass in sculptural vases or vintage trays filled with seedpods and shells. Air-purifying plants with diverse leaf shapes and sizes, grouped for visual impact, also contribute organic texture. Embracing imperfection, as inspired by the Japanese philosophy of wabi-sabi, is key to adding unique character. This means incorporating vintage items that bear the marks of age or handmade pieces that reveal the maker's touch. Uneven surfaces and patinas not only relax the ambiance but also invite touch and engagement. Pattern play, even without a raised surface, adds significant texture. Starting with small elements like printed cushions or rugs and gradually increasing pattern density can create a vibrant, layered effect. Favoring natural fibers like linen, timber, stone, hides, and leather over synthetic alternatives enriches a space with inherent depth, pleasant tactile qualities, and subtle aromas. Wall hangings, beyond traditional art and mirrors, can transform flat walls into focal points. Weavings, wall-mounted plants, unique fabrics, and floating shelves displaying evolving vignettes add lushness and visual interest. Curtains and blinds, when chosen thoughtfully, also act as decorative elements, softening a room and adding another layer of texture, with options like natural linens or woven blinds providing distinct styles. Baskets offer both aesthetic appeal and practical storage. Their varied weaves, from loose to tight, allow them to blend seamlessly with different decor styles while introducing an organic touch. Finally, texturing walls and ceilings can dramatically cozy up a room. Techniques like French wash paint, textured grass cloth, embossed removable wallpaper, or exposed raw ply ceilings and beams create captivating surfaces that interact beautifully with light, enhancing the overall textural richness of the home. These diverse methods collectively contribute to a well-balanced and visually stimulating interior environment. #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #TexturalElements #Rugs #NaturalFibers #WallDecor #Greenery #WabiSabi #HomeStyling

Armadillo, a brand renowned for its commitment to natural materials and handcrafted construction, has introduced two new rugs, Panama and Mesa, which highlight the aesthetic and functional properties of jute. The article discusses how rugs serve as an effective means of transforming interior spaces, offering elegance through layered textures, enhancing comfort underfoot, and updating flooring without replacement. Co-founders Jodie Fried and Sally Pottharst emphasize the brand's philosophy, which integrates design, artistry, sustainability, and social change, underscoring the use of natural fibers like jute, wool, linen, and silk for their sustainable, practical, and inherently beautiful qualities. Pottharst notes that natural fibers offer subtle, unique variations and a rich, tactile feel that synthetic materials cannot replicate, making them a pleasure to live with. The article highlights jute's historical significance in rug crafting, valued for its rustic texture, durability, and sustainability. Jute is also naturally renewable, resistant to dust mites, and possesses antimicrobial properties. The new Panama and Mesa rugs are presented as a continuation of Armadillo's efforts to reimagine traditional craft techniques for contemporary living, effectively bringing natural elements into the home. The Panama rug draws inspiration from Panamanian landscapes, with the Papyrus colorway reflecting the natural beauty of deserted beaches through white wool combined with golden jute, and the Kale colorway evoking the lush tropical vegetation of the Chagres rainforests with its deep, mottled texture. The Panama rug's organic texture and subtle color variations are achieved using the traditional soumak weaving method, a tapestry-like technique that creates a rich textural floor covering by interweaving raw, plaited jute fiber with virgin wool. This blend not only adds a refined natural touch but also enhances softness, balancing the raw jute. The Mesa rug also employs the soumak technique but utilizes a more unusual one-sided method, resulting in an even more textural finish. Its name reflects the gorgeously irregular surface reminiscent of rocky landscapes and wind-rippled sand. This thick weave is noted for its beauty and exceptional durability, making it suitable for high-traffic areas. Armadillo's dedication to sustainability extends beyond material selection to ethical production. In April 2021, the company became the first Australian rug brand to achieve B Corp certification, acknowledging its comprehensive environmental and social practices. A portion of the company's net profits, 10%, is directed to the Armadillo Foundation, a non-profit organization focused on improving the lives of underprivileged communities globally. Fried encourages consumers to adopt an inquisitive mindset when shopping, prioritizing quality, longevity, and sustainability, benefiting both their homes and the wider world. #ArmadilloRugs #JuteRugs #NaturalFibers #SustainableDesign #HomeDecor #HandcraftedRugs #SoumakWeaving #InteriorDesign #BCorpCertification

Mina Abouzahra, a Dutch-Moroccan artist and designer, has curated an exhibition titled “The Soul of a Rug” to highlight the artistry and cultural significance of Amazigh (Berber) weaving traditions. The exhibition, on display at the Palais Bahia in Marrakech until June 30th, features a selection of weavings and tapestries from the weavers of Taznakht, alongside contemporary furniture and objects designed by Abouzahra, some of which incorporate vintage weavings as upholstery. The display also includes photographs, looms, and yarns, allowing visitors to engage with the tactile aspects of the craft. A virtual reality film further immerses viewers in the daily life of the women and the village of Taznakht. Abouzahra's journey to this project began with her exploration of Moroccan craftsmanship, initially through her work as a chef and food stylist. She later transitioned to furniture design, studying woodworking and cabinetry, and undertaking an internship in Essaouira where she discovered the rich textile heritage of Morocco. This led her to establish her own interior label, integrating vintage Moroccan textiles with contemporary furniture. She developed a profound understanding and appreciation for Berber rugs, recognizing them as repositories of stories and rituals unique to their communities, with distinct colors, sizes, and techniques influenced by local resources and traditions passed down through generations. This exhibition builds upon Abouzahra's previous work, including “One Square Meter Berber” in 2019, also held at the Palais Bahia. That exhibition aimed to draw attention to the financial disparity faced by weavers, who are often paid by the square meter, by displaying individual 1-square meter rugs alongside photographs of their creators. This initiative sought to humanize the craft and advocate for fair compensation. During this period, Abouzahra also facilitated a residency program in Taznakht for Dutch designers, fostering an exchange of creative ideas between them and the Amazigh weavers. Following the pandemic, Abouzahra spent several months living in Taznakht, deepening her connection to the community and their weaving practices. This immersive experience revealed the spiritual dimension of the craft, such as the ritual of smashing sugar on a new loom to imbue it with a "sweet soul" and covering it with a black cloth to ward off the evil eye. “The Soul of a Rug” is the culmination of over a decade of Abouzahra’s dedicated research and engagement with Berber weaving. The exhibition not only celebrates ancestral craft, cultural preservation, and female empowerment but also underscores the benefits of collaborative work and the shared connection fostered through community and creativity. After its run in Marrakech, the exhibition is scheduled to travel to Amsterdam, showing at Hotel Arena from August 22nd to September 21st, and at Glue, the Amsterdam Design Fair, from September 18th to 21st. #MinaAbouzahra #BerberRugs #TextileArt #MoroccanCraftsmanship #CulturalPreservation #FemaleEmpowerment #Exhibition #InteriorDesign #TaznakhtWeavers

Edie Ure, a Boulder-based textile innovator, has launched a unique collection of wallcoverings that integrate natural elements foraged from the Mountain West. Her creative journey, which began with a career in fashion in New York, shifted dramatically after the onset of the pandemic. While many were occupied with new hobbies, Ure seized the opportunity to develop a line of wallpapers that visually represent her deep connection to nature. Ure’s inspiration stems from her earlier work as a natural textile dyer, where she observed and extracted patterns and colors from the natural world. This experience laid the groundwork for her innovative wallcovering designs. She recognized the potential for these organic aesthetics to transform interior spaces, leading her to experiment with various natural materials and techniques. The wallcovering collection prominently features a variety of wildflowers, dirt, and rocks, all responsibly gathered from the natural landscapes of the Mountain West. Ure frequently embarks on hikes in areas like the Indian Peaks Wilderness and the foothills near Boulder, where she meticulously collects botanicals. She carries a flower press during her excursions, or carefully stores blooms in a map book, ensuring their preservation for her artistic process. This hands-on approach underscores her commitment to authenticity and a direct relationship with her source materials. Ure emphasizes the universal appeal of color palettes derived from nature. She believes that these colors resonate with people because they evoke the same sense of pleasure and balance experienced in gardens, forests, or under a clear blue sky. This connection to nature's inherent energy is a core philosophy behind her work, aligning with the idea that there is a fundamental energy and color present in all living and non-living things, as articulated by artists like Andy Goldsworthy. Living in Colorado has profoundly influenced Ure’s design aesthetic. The transition from bustling city life to the tranquility of Colorado’s natural environment has heightened her sensory perception. Her solitary hikes and gardening activities have allowed her to observe the ephemeral qualities of natural materials such as mud, ash, weeds, and flowers. This deep observation has inspired her to capture the essence of these elements, translating them into patterns that reflect the rhythm and spirituality of nature. Examples from her collection include "Wildflower No. 6," which features pressed grape hyacinth, blue prairie flax, larkspur, forget-me-nots, and violets. "Abiquiu No. 10" showcases a grid of paint colors created from rocks and earth collected during hikes in what Ure describes as "sacred spaces" across Colorado, Utah, and New Mexico. Other designs, such as "Rose Stain No. 2" and "Aibana No. 3," involve photographing dogwood rose-stained silk and backyard-grown indigo-dyed fabric, respectively, and transforming these images into large-scale, symmetrical patterns. These wallcoverings are available through WallTawk and Ure’s personal website, offering a unique blend of art, nature, and interior design. #EdieUre #BotanicalWallcoverings #NaturalDyeing #TextileInnovation #ColoradoDesign #SustainableDesign #InteriorDesign #NatureInspired

The Carpet Design Awards 2017, an international competition celebrating the best in handmade carpets and rugs, recently announced its winners. A distinguished panel of judges, led by multi-award-winning carpet designer Stephanie Odegard, evaluated 386 entries from 21 countries to select the top designs across eight distinct categories. The judging criteria encompassed various aspects, including design and concept, materials used, structural integrity and quality, execution, texture, sustainability, and brand presence. In the 'Best Flatweave Design' category, 'Scandinavian Flatweave 2' by Rug & Kilim was recognized for its original design demonstrating the flatweave technique. Jaipur Rugs' 'Unstring by Kavi' claimed the 'Best Modern Collection' award, celebrated for its contemporary design collections unified by a common theme. For 'Best Modern Design Deluxe,' Wool and Silk Rugs' 'Summit' stood out due to its original contemporary design and optimal use of materials. Similarly, Sterling Rugs' 'Super Moon' secured the 'Best Modern Design Superior' award, also lauded for its innovative contemporary design and material utilization. The 'Best Studio Artist Design' honor went to Simone Post for 'Vlisco Recycled,' acknowledging its original small-scale production from an artist or designer. Ayka Design's 'Vase Green' was awarded 'Best Traditional Design' for its successful interpretation of a traditional rug design. Hossein Rezvani's 'Shiraz sabz' received the 'Best Transitional Design' award, recognizing a new rug that blends traditional designs with a contemporary style. The 'Best Transitional Collection' was awarded to Edelgrund for its 'Alasht Collection,' showcasing traditional and transitional collections with a shared theme. Beyond the expert judging panel, the DOMOTEX show also included a 'People's Favourite Vote,' allowing visitors to cast their ballots for their preferred carpet among the 24 finalists. The 'Rapture 4 – The Kundan Pure Silk Collection' by Zollanvari emerged as the people's choice, indicating its widespread appeal among attendees. These awards highlight the innovation, craftsmanship, and artistic expression present in the global carpet and rug industry, celebrating both established and emerging designers. #CarpetDesignAwards #HandmadeRugs #InteriorDesign #Flooring #ModernDesign #TraditionalDesign #TextileArt #HomeDecor #DesignExcellence

Rugs are a highly versatile and often underappreciated element of interior design, offering a medium for creative expression through color and pattern. They can enhance a room's character, tie a space together, and effectively zone open-plan layouts. Beyond aesthetics, rugs provide warmth, add texture, minimize floor marks, and improve room acoustics by absorbing sound. Their transformative power allows for significant changes to a room's dynamic without a complete redesign. A key trend for 2025 is the rise of bespoke and custom rug designs, reflecting a broader shift towards personalization in home interiors, from kitchens to decorating styles like maximalism and nostalgiacore. Jon Flannigan, Head of Product at Crucial Trading, highlights the appeal of custom flooring in its uniqueness and craftsmanship, enabling homeowners to express individuality beyond mass-produced items. Several specific trends are predicted to dominate in 2025. Bold colors, including rich reds, jade greens, calming corals, electric cobalts, and warming mustard yellows, are gaining prominence. Jodie Hatton, Design Manager at Brintons, notes these colors reflect a desire for spaces that radiate personality and joy. Ashley Stark, Creative Director of Stark and founder of Ashley Stark Home, specifically points to burgundy rugs as a sophisticated alternative to brighter reds, offering warmth without overwhelming the space and complementing neutral palettes. Considered materials are another significant trend, with a preference for artisanal, handcrafted rugs made from premium materials like wool, silk, and natural fibers. This reflects a move away from fast furniture towards timeless, investment pieces that offer longevity and unique character. Johanna Constantinou, Trends Expert at Tapi Carpet & Floors, links this to the cottagecore aesthetic, which favors natural materials and neutral colors that evoke a rustic charm, creating cozy and grounded living spaces. Nature-inspired maximalism is also expected to make a strong impact, featuring bold, dramatic, and oversized botanical-print rugs. Claire Pinckney, Manager of Design Trend Forecasting at Ruggable, describes this as creating an immersive environment centered on the beauty of the natural world, using mossy greens, marbled blues, and layered patterns. This trend is suitable for living rooms, bedrooms, and bathrooms, aiming to energize, add luxury, and promote serenity. Circular rugs are set to be the shape of choice, aligning with the broader trend for curves, arches, and rounded forms in interiors. Johanna Constantinou explains that these softer, more organic shapes complement rounded furniture, contributing to a more inviting and harmonious atmosphere. Colour-blocked minimalism is another emerging trend, utilizing primary colors, grids, and futuristic shapes to create a balanced yet vibrant aesthetic. The approach involves introducing vibrant hues minimally but effectively, adding character to a home without overdoing it. Graphic expression marks a shift from distressed styles to precisely executed geometric shapes, linear designs, and stylized florals. Jodie Hatton notes that these patterns bring a playful edge and can be paired with complementary designs for a curated look. Finally, tactile luxury emphasizes the sensory experience of the home, with high-pile designs trending for their incredible texture and comfort. Premium wool rugs offer plushness and enduring quality, creating a cloud-like sensation underfoot. These designs are particularly transformative in living spaces and bedrooms, providing insulating properties and sound-dampening benefits, making them a practical and luxurious investment. #RugTrends #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #BespokeRugs #BoldColors #NaturalMaterials #NatureInspiredMaximalism #CircularRugs #ColourBlockedMinimalism #GraphicPatterns #TactileLuxury

Materials within architectural spaces extend beyond mere functional elements, serving as conduits for cultural and historical narratives. Architects and designers increasingly integrate local techniques, natural resources, and traditional crafts to infuse interiors with a sense of place and historical depth, moving beyond superficial aesthetics to create spaces that resonate with contemporary needs while honoring inherited knowledge. This approach involves a reinterpretation of traditional practices rather than a strict adherence to the past. Natural materials such as stone, linen, jute, wool, and wood are central to this philosophy. These materials offer tactile qualities, durability, and deep cultural associations. Their visible aging processes highlight the passage of time and connect interiors to the landscapes from which they originate. Objects crafted from these materials, including furniture and rugs, play a crucial role in shaping interior environments. They define spatial zones, enhance acoustic properties, and introduce rich textures, while simultaneously preserving traditional skills and knowledge that might otherwise be lost. The Alentejo region in Portugal exemplifies how everyday objects can embody memory and link interior spaces to their cultural and natural contexts. Known for its strong community and traditions, Alentejo’s architecture is characterized by practicality, with features like lime-plastered walls providing thermal comfort and objects designed for longevity. This pragmatic approach emphasizes durability and continuity, a philosophy mirrored by Portuguese rug manufacturer Ferreira de Sá. Ferreira de Sá's latest collection, ALÉM TEJO, draws inspiration from the Alentejo region, translating its essence—its memories, rhythms, textures, and patterns—into woven form. Established in 1946, the company combines innovation with Portuguese heritage. The collection features thirteen rugs, each reflecting a specific aspect of the region, from shadows and plowed fields to limewashed facades. These designs are realized through various traditional techniques, including tufting, hand-knotting, hand-weaving, and flatweave. Each technique imparts a distinct character to the rugs. Tufted pieces like Sul, Alvorada, and Nisa create sculptural reliefs that interact with light, while Brisa and Sobreo utilize vertical patterns to evoke the textures of cork and rural architecture. The hand-knotted Solo rug, made from wool and jute, develops irregular surfaces that convey a sense of history and craftsmanship. Hand-woven Talha and Planura rugs feature quiet, balanced compositions, and flatweave rugs such as Cal and Bolotas simplify the process, reminiscent of the tactile surfaces of limewashed walls, acorns, and cork oak bark. Collectively, these rugs transcend their object status, becoming tangible expressions of the Alentejo region. The rugs in the ALÉM TEJO collection balance contemporary design with regional memory. They function as either focal points or subtle background elements, with their technique, density, and color palette contributing to specific atmospheres. Made from undyed wool, jute, and linen, the collection emphasizes the natural origin of its materials. This selection ensures earthy tones emerge organically, resulting in minimally processed, renewable, and biodegradable products. These natural hues can introduce warmth to minimalist spaces, enrich modern interiors, and bring a renewed sense of calm to traditional settings, aligning with biophilic design principles by connecting indoor environments to nature. This approach fosters a slower pace and a deeper connection to the natural world. For design professionals, this integration of tradition and materiality encourages a thoughtful consideration of how interiors can engage with memory and place. Rugs, alongside other architectural components, can influence movement, absorb sound, and create intimate moments. When grounded in traditional craftsmanship and material authenticity, they carry narratives that link spaces to broader cultural contexts. The ALÉM TEJO collection demonstrates that heritage is not static but a dynamic resource, allowing for continuity with the past while embracing new ideas, thus forging designs that connect past, present, and future. #InteriorDesign #NaturalMaterials #Tradition #Handcraft #BiophilicDesign #Portugal #Textiles #Rugs #Materiality #CulturalHeritage

Layered, a Stockholm-based interior design brand established in 2015 by Malin Glemme, has garnered attention for its distinctive blend of bold and modern design elements, coupled with a strong emphasis on craftsmanship and sustainability. The company's latest collection draws inspiration from and is named after traditional Röllakan rugs. These historic rugs are characterized by their geometric and stylized patterns, which frequently feature plant and animal motifs, and were traditionally handwoven by women in their homes. For this contemporary reimagining, Layered's design team has curated a palette that is both rich and intense. The colors selected reflect Swedish nature and folk art, incorporating deep red, blue, yellow, dark ochre, and forest green. Complementary undyed black and white details are also integrated into the designs. This color scheme aims to evoke the aesthetic and cultural heritage of the original Röllakan rugs while offering a fresh, modern interpretation. The original Röllakan rugs were often cherished and passed down through generations as heirlooms, symbolizing enduring value and tradition. Layered's new interpretations are designed with a similar legacy in mind. The brand endeavors to create pieces that are not only visually appealing and current but also possess the timeless quality and craftsmanship that would make them suitable for being passed down as heirlooms in the future. This approach aligns with Layered's foundational commitment to sustainability and enduring design, ensuring that their products contribute to a more mindful consumption culture. The collection's focus on traditional techniques combined with contemporary design ensures a unique aesthetic that appeals to modern sensibilities while honoring historical artistry. The choice of natural colors and classic motifs, reinterpreted for a contemporary audience, allows these rugs to integrate seamlessly into various interior styles, from minimalist to more eclectic settings. Layered's ability to cross-pollinate design influences, merging traditional Swedish folk art with bold, modern aesthetics, positions the brand as a significant player in the interior design landscape, offering products that are both beautiful and ethically produced. #Layered #RöllakanRugs #SwedishDesign #ArtisanRugs #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #SustainableDesign #Craftsmanship #FolkArt

Lucy Penfield, the founder of Wayzata, Minnesota–based Lucy Interiors, emphasizes circularity in her design approach. She focuses on incorporating sustainably made items that are durable, repairable, and recyclable, aiming to infuse interiors with character and a connection to nature. Penfield believes that good design contributes to a better future. For her current mood board, Penfield drew inspiration from a floral arrangement by Buffy Hargett Miller and utilized natural materials, including a salvaged-wood surface sample and a wallcovering crafted from water-lily leaves. She highlights that creating beauty while acting responsibly is fundamental to her work. The flat lay she created showcases a collection of artisan-crafted items made from eco-conscious materials, each possessing distinct style and personality. Penfield describes the aesthetic as a romantic blend of mulberry and raspberry hues, combined with moss and spring green, resulting in an earthy yet energetic feel. The mood board features a curated selection of 23 items. Among them is the Pienza Rafano Linen in Violet-Grape by C&C Milano, chosen for its iconic, regal pattern and understated elegance, suitable for drapery. The Leaping Cheetah Cotton Fabric in Bubblegum by Scalamandré is included to add a playful and sassy element. For texture and natural appeal, the Nomad Wallcovering in Spring Green by Omexco, made from water lilies, is selected as an eco-friendly option. The Rosewater 1 Hand-Painted Terra Cotta Tile by Tabarka Studio is featured for its bespoke quality and beautiful workmanship, ideal for a backsplash. Farrow & Ball's Brinjal No. 222 Paint, a moody aubergine, is envisioned for creating an exotic atmosphere when applied in high gloss. The Lucille Ikat Fabric by Tulu is chosen for its dramatic scale and raspberry color, adding pizzazz to any room. Penfield also incorporates a Green Guatemalan Textile with Fringe, highlighting her practice of layering found textiles and celebrating the embroidery work of Mayan women. Bianco London Plane Wood by Foresso, made from waste wood from fallen British trees, is noted for its impressive ethical sourcing and use of recycled materials. The Catch Cabinet Pull in Silicon Bronze Dark by Rocky Mountain Hardware is included for its dark metal finish that patinas beautifully with age, showcasing artisan quality. For window treatments, Whitecaps Window Fabric in Breaker by Hartmann&Forbes is chosen for its natural grass texture as a roman shade. The floral arrangement by Buffy Hargett Miller is specifically mentioned as the inspiration for the mood board's color palette. Edie Metallic Wallpaper in Glam Gold by Cristina Buckley for Schumacher provides a mod-meets-vintage look with its shiny Mylar finish. An Embroidered Decorative Tape Trim from Lucy Interiors, sourced from Mexican women artists, is selected to represent hidden treasures and artisanal craft. The selection continues with Tortoiseshell Wallpaper in Emerald by Hutton Wilkinson for Jim Thompson, described as a book-matched inlay-inspired design with a glossy finish reminiscent of Tony Duquette. A 19th Century Chinese Six-Panel Screen from Bunny Williams Home features scenes of birds and foliage. Mane Attraction Leather in Deep Turq by Holly Hunt, a moody dark turquoise hair-on-hide, is included for its irresistible texture. The Cocarde Fabric in Opiat by Christian Lacroix at Designers Guild, with its rosettes, emblems, and ribbons, offers a playful, wild-card print. Ikat Crazy Fabric in Orange/Pink by Mally Skok Design is chosen for its modern linen ikat pattern, perfect for reupholstering cherished sofas. Glam Stripe I Fabric by Casamota, from Carlos Mota’s debut collection, is noted for its bold palette and delicious embroidery. Quadrato Fabric in Cerise by Casa Branca, with its hand-drawn concentric print, provides a graphic splash that complements the floral inspirations. A Burl Wood Dining Table Sample in Honey Amber by Milo Baughman at 1stDibs, a 1970s classic, is selected for its versatility and earthy connection. A Purple Guatemalan Stripe Pillow from Lucy Interiors, made from artisan fabric, represents another example of found textiles. Finally, the book “Yves Saint Laurent: The Complete Haute Couture Collections” by Suzy Menkes is included for its representation of French style and haute couture archives. #InteriorDesign #SustainableDesign #HomeDecor #MoodBoard #Textiles #Wallcoverings #ArtisanCraftsmanship #NaturalMaterials #ColorPalette