Handmade Rugs: More than just floor coverings

We know that placing furniture on rugs rather than directly on floors (however fancy) instantly amps up the comfort element of a space. It’s like putting artwork in a frame rather than directly hanging on the wall… totally different appeal. But did you know that you can create an entire floor plan of a space simply by your rug placement. A large format rug could highlight the main seating area of a living space for example, and another complementing smaller rug placed on top of that could serve as the pedestal to your coffee table. Some mid sized rugs placed in corners can mark out areas for breakout seating, an armchair perhaps. You could also create a divan or low floor seating space by picking out your favourite silken or comfort rug and draping it over a low rectangular base. Throw some cushions and you’ve got your own Maharaja style lounging spot.

Longer rugs, or runners are perfect for hallways or foyers, as not only do they make the entrance immediately welcoming, they also serve as directional aids to guide guests into your home.

The long and short of it is that a rug pretty much serves as that canvas by which your decor is highlighted, punctuated or accentuated. If your furniture is loud, or making a statement, subtle or otherwise, your rugs should be muted and soft to allow those pieces to shine. Alternatively, the rugs could take centrestage, having a story to tell, in which case, choose your furniture carefully so as not to disrupt that tale. 

This is just a basic rule of thumb. It boils down to choice of course. You could decide to go all out maximalist and let every single piece of furniture, wall and floor covering scream at full volume and yet make it work. (If you do, please share your pics with us at [email protected] We’d love to see those results). 

Did you know that in earlier centuries, rugs were considered too precious to be used as floor coverings? Particularly rugs originating from the prevalent Eastern rug weaving regions. They were only taken out and used on special occasions, or hung on walls (they still are), decorated on balconies (particularly in Italy during celebrations) and, to date, offered as tribute from one tribe or state to another. Beautiful Persian rugs are even given as a precious part of dowry in marriages. 

Rugs have served as floor coverings in interiors since time immemorial. But they have equally served as beautiful gestures of gratitude, tribute, decoration, and prayer. The prayer mat rug design can be as simple as the silhouette of a minaret or an ornate depiction of a prayer scene of the Ka’aba in Mecca. 

If we look at craft emerging from the central African tribal regions, rug designs are less delicate and more linear, geometrical and potentially even bold with colour blocking. These make for fantastic wall hangings, creating a dynamic backdrop for a bed or the focal wall of a living room. Pair it with some gorgeous complementing tones for the living room floor and your room is super stylish and cosy with a capital ‘C’.