Traditional rugs FAQ

What defines a traditional rug today?

A traditional rug usually features established design elements such as medallions, borders, floral vines, palmettes, scrollwork, or allover lattice patterns. In a new rug category, these designs may be newly woven rather than antique, often using updated color palettes, adjusted scale, and fresh materials while preserving the visual language of Persian, Turkish, Indian, or European carpets.

Are these traditional rugs antique or newly made?

This category is primarily for new traditional and antique-inspired rugs, not necessarily antique rugs. Some designs reference Oushak, Tabriz, Sultanabad, Samarkand, Aubusson, or Bessarabian traditions. Antique rugs are typically 100+ years old, while new traditional rugs offer classical design with current condition, available sizing, and contemporary interior palettes.

Which rooms work best for traditional rugs?

Traditional rugs are well suited to living rooms, dining rooms, libraries, bedrooms, entries, galleries, and formal sitting rooms. Medallion rugs can center a room, while allover floral or lattice designs are easier to use with varied furniture placement. Oversized traditional rugs are especially useful in large interiors where the carpet must organize multiple seating or dining zones.

What materials are best for traditional area rugs?

Wool is a strong choice for traditional area rugs because it offers texture, resilience, and warmth. Silk or wool-and-silk rugs can add finer detail and luminosity, particularly in more formal interiors. Flatweaves and natural fibers create a lighter surface. The best material depends on room use, desired refinement, foot traffic, and maintenance expectations.

Can traditional rugs be custom made?

Yes, traditional rugs can often be custom made or adapted in size, palette, and pattern when an in-stock rug is not the right fit. Made-to-order options are particularly useful for oversized rooms, unusual dimensions, long halls, and interiors requiring a specific color balance. Custom work should be discussed in relation to design goals, material, and lead time.

How do I choose between medallion and allover designs?

Choose a medallion rug when the room has a clear center point, such as a symmetrical seating plan, dining table, or architectural axis. Choose an allover pattern when furniture placement is less formal or may cover the center field. Allover florals, vines, and geometric repeats are often more forgiving in layered, contemporary, or open-plan interiors.