THE NEW MODERN RUG
Once upon a time the few modern carpets available (AKA area rugs) were limited to large color blocked geometric patterns in a garish palette. But, the modern carpets of late have turned that notion on its head. Their level of sophistication and artistry are truly a joy to behold.
Overriding themes seem to be either “Sophisticated Subtleties” or “BAM! In-Your-Face”. But, there’s ample variety to suit anyone’s taste. I’ve narrowed them down to three primary categories:
The Neo-Traditional Patterns: The market has been saturated the past couple of years with modern spins on traditional elements that include over scaled florals, scrolls & damasks. The stylized traditions are migrating to obscured, warped or color muted animal prints, hyper-delicate Asian inspired motifs like the wisp of cherry blossom in this Hokku Designs Inari rug. Ikats and global prints are in big time!
Clockwise from Top: ABC Rug's Ikats, Hokku Design's Inari, Oscar de la Renta's Spain,Victoria Hagan's Shagreen Leopard
The Sophisticates: There is tremendous beauty in the subtleties of tone on tone, color graduated ombreys, and weaves that look like water color paintings. Subtle color striations and woven loop or cut patterns with height variation. A nubby wool sweater and the popular mosaic jumps from tile to the loom in this Calvin Klein Prairie rug. These moderns reek of class!
Clockwise from Top: Calvin Klein's Luster Wash, West Elm's Sweater Rug, Calvin Klein's Prairie, & Safavieh's Soho
The Graphics: The Graphic Design profession has soared in our age of technology and they are bringing their talents under foot. Iconography, graffiti, surrealism, and typography leap off the page to your floor. Edward Barber & Jay Osgerby’s designs for The Rug Company are stunners. Oh what fun a carpet can be!
Clockwise from Top Right: Queen Elizabeth Icon Postage Stamp, Kate Katie Ulanov Designs, Linus Dean's Typography, Henzel's Graffiti, Edward Barber & Jay Osgerby's Puzzle Rug and center Lourdes Sanchez for West Elm's Bulls Eye
