We all love a rug. Be it the snuggle-soft comfort of a classic Berber, its inky black lines crisscrossing un-dyed sheep’s wool; the timeless charm of an old Persian carpet in all its threadbare majesty or even the abstract colour pop of something more contemporary, rugs bring soul and character to any space and even have the smugly satisfying bonus of providing thermal and acoustic insulation.
We all love rugs.
However, these walkable on works of art can often be jaw-droppingly expensive.
Intricate detailing, labour and the size and materials used for bespoke pieces often make rugs a costly investment.
It can be challenging therefore to find one both aesthetically pleasing and affordable, especially when you’re looking for something a little different from the churned out identi-kits from mass-produced chain stores.
If you love a vintage style or you want something a little more artisanal or quirky but you’re on budget – where do you go?
Clients and friends often ask me this question, so as a little Christmas gift, I’ve collated five of my favourite places to go, be it independent shops or online stores, each offer unusual and unique rugs at reasonable prices.
A NEW TRIBE
https://anewtribe.co.uk/
92a Chatsworth Road, Hackney, London, E5 0LS
Ella Jones’ eclectic interiors and textile design studio offers a variety of home furnishings and products from around the world. They also do a fabulous selection of hand-picked, vintage Azilal, Beni Ourian and Boucherouite rugs, all ethically sourced and one of a kind.
Look out also for Ella’s signature capsule collection of modern textiles inspired by her travels in Morocco.
FRANCES LOOM
https://www.instagram.com/francesloom
Hand-picked and lovingly restored antique rugs via London and New York based Interior Designer Kelly Vittengl. This weekly updated Instagram account focuses on vintage textiles from around the world.
Sumptuously photographed, you’ll always find a treasure trove of cleverly curated pieces to fit every budget.
GUR RUGS
https://rugby.gur.com
Based on traditional Portugeuse weaving techniques, this company collaborates with artists and illustrators to produce contemporary rugs full of riotous colour and texture making for fun, unusual pieces with clout.
FLOOR STORY
https://www.floorstory.co.uk/
Floor_Story At Kent & London, 5 Hackney Road,London E2 7nx
This vibrant, dynamic East London based studio specialises in collaborative projects with established designers by the likes of Camilla Walala and Zandra Rhodes as well as bespoke commissions.
Rugs can also be bought off the peg from their in-house collection. I’ve following their work for years now and always look forward to seeing what new and innovative designs they produce.
PTOLEMY MANN
https://ptolemymannrugs.com/
Showroom: Rugmaker: 42 Verulam Road, St Albans, Hertfordshire, AL3 4DQ
One of the more unusual styles I’ve seen in the contemporary market, these geometric rugs are hand dyed and woven using a unique Ikat technique developed by designer Ptolemy Mann and her weavers in India.
Made of 100% wool, they come in a variety of sizes and runners.