RUG GUIDE
The people have asked: “what’s this rug, what’s that rug, who’s your rug dealer?”
And I am, of course, a man of the people — so here it is: the RUG GUIDE. I think the best way to break this down is by style. I happen to have three rugs, one in each category. Some brands carry all three, but I’m steering you toward the specialists.
1. Kilim Rugs
From Africa across the Middle East and deep into Central Asia, the “Rug Belt” has produced some of the finest flat-woven rugs in the world. The kilim’s I enjoy most are Turkish and Moroccan (in that order).
Turkish Kilims
Typically more geometric with vibrant, intentional colors. The runner I have is a good example: lots of oranges, olives, and creams.
Where to get one: The Grand Bazaar on the UWS
Has an amazing flea market every Sunday. My guy Hüseyin has been there since 2004 selling rugs. Every year he goes back to Istanbul, loads up on inventory, and brings back incredible handmade pieces at fair prices.
Here’s his website — but you really need to go in person.
Pro Tip: He’s in Istanbul every year around January/February, so March is when he’s flush with the best colors, sizes, and designs. Tell him Ryan sent you.
Moroccan Kilim’s
Muted reds, pinks, cobalt, darker hues. More tribal, more free-flowing.
Where to get one: Hudson Valley House Parts
Hudson Valley House Parts has been a longtime follow — not only amazing furniture and antiques, but often an excellent selection of vintage Moroccan rugs.
2. Wool Rugs
Next up: wool rugs: Always look for natural fibers. From there, you’ve really got two choices, and it comes down to price.
Rugs USA
(Also a sneak peak at the Outpost Website Launching Thursday)
This is the one I’ve had for years. Many folks have asked about it — here it is. Durable, affordable, and available in basically every size.
Côte à Coast
This small men’s lifestyle store reminds me a lot of what I’d open if Outpost ever went brick-and-mortar. They’ve got some really nice carpets — you’re a bit restricted in sizes, but the stuff is genuinely good. (Website not so much sorry for the blurry photo)
3. Jute Rugs
Again, two routes — and it comes down to price.
Home Depot
Weirdly… they have a great rug selection. It’s what I have. Nice and thick, not too hard on the feet (a common jute issue), and overall very solid for ~$200.
Armadillo
If you’ve got a little money to throw around, Armadillo is a very cool Australian brand and surprisingly reasonable. Think ~$1,000 for a solid living-room rug. Maybe I’m just numb to New York prices.
They have a very chic showroom in the penthouse of an office building in Flatiron.
(Pro tip: everything is in meters.)
Honorable Mention:
Nordic Knots
The last company that almost got me — also in SoHo. They have all of the above and they are super, super nice. I just couldn’t justify spending the money… perhaps you can.
Ask away in the comments I’ll do my best,
Ryan
