I love Twitter – it puts me in touch with so many interesting people and it’s a great way to find out about new online stores and that’s exactly how I stumbled across Patchy Rugs. The Patchy Rugs range is a collection of remastered kilims from Turkey, selected by Melbourne designer Lauren Treiser. The rugs have been individually chosen to complement every type of home and each Patchy Rug is a one off, handmade and has it’s own unique colour scheme, tone and pattern. I think they are fabulous so I asked Lauren a few questions about her rugs.
Did you previously work in the interior decorating industry or is Patchy Rugs a total career change?
Patchy Rugs is a completely new part of my work. I am actually a graphic designer by trade who has always loved interior design and architecture. Keeping up to date with new trends and the design market, I felt it was a good time to start an online store that caters to people looking for something different to ‘up the ante’ in their home.
What gave you the idea to start up Patchy Rugs?
In fact I spotted these eclectic rugs whilst travelling in Turkey with my husband. When I saw them for the first time, I absolutely loved them! Then, when we moved into our new home, I wanted to add warmth and colour into the space. The dream has now grown from a single rug in our living room to an online store.
Where do you source your rugs from?
Istanbul, Turkey
Is each piece individual?
Each rug is absolutely unique and one-of-a-kind! A real statement piece! The patchwork rugs are made by sewing patches together from different rugs to create a completely new rug. This literally means that it is impossible to have two alike. We also stock overdyed rugs which are traditional kilims that have been treated with a colourful dye to give them a new life. The traditional design is still evident through the dye and this creates an elegant mix of the old and new.
Do you ever get to see the rugs in their new homes?
I always ask the new owners to send photos of the rugs in their home. I will be putting them up on the website soon 🙂 I love seeing how people style their space and am always amazed how much the rugs can lift a room.
What is your most popular colour?
It’s pretty interesting! Everyone is different, just like the rugs. Some people like the earthy tones and some like the colourful rugs. Of the colourful ones, purple has been very popular indeed.
Favourite part of the job?
My favourite part of the job has to be when we get that first email back, after the rug is delivered, letting us know how happy the customer is.
Least fave part of the job?
I like picking the rugs and matching them up with their new owners… I am not very good with the numbers side of things so I outsource it to my husband (Thanks Dave!)
Oh and for anyone contemplating a Patchy Rug, Lauren is very happy for people to come see the rugs in person, by appointment. And you can try the rugs out in your home – even if you are interstate, Patchy Rugs can courier them to you.
