Kilim Never Goes Out Of Style

Photo Credit: Coco + Kelley and Barrington Blue

Whether your interior is modern or traditional, there is always room for the rich texture and intricate designs of a Kilim. Kilim, pronounced kee-leem, is one of the oldest woven textiles in history, dating back to 3000 BC. They are a pileless slit-woven rug with bold geometric patterns and colors made mainly from vegetable-dyed wool. The no-pile construction was designed specifically for high traffic areas and to last for a considerable amount of time. Many “vintage” kilims you find today are actually antiques – some are well over a century old. Although these textiles come mainly from Turkey, they are also found in the Balkans, North Africa, Pakistan, Iran, Afghanistan and various regions in China. Each country has a variation of pattern and color, but the traditional craftsmanship, symbols and flat-woven technique are consistently the same.

Common symbols found in Kilim rugs and gorgeous pillows from Leif Shop

Kilim rugs have stood the test of time. Global trends have come and gone, and yet Kilims never seem to go out of style. Their exotic designs represents a world gone by – nomadic dwellings lined in bold, bright colors enriched with deep heritage and traditions. Although many of us love our modern conveniences, there is something very alluring about the nomadic life. Kilims have a siren-effect, calling us to take part in their unfamiliar world and ancient stories. No matter what your style may be, these tribal designs will magically find a place in your home.

Rug from Chairish, Chair from One Kings Lane and Shoes by Artemis

Once a Kilim rug has run its course, artisans will then use it for upholstery. They will crop the areas that have thinned and torn, and use the remaining portions to cover chairs, sofas, and stools. Or create pillow covers, handbags and even shoes. It’s incredible that after a century, a textile can simply be trimmed, applied to a piece of furniture or an accessory and then continue for many more years looking as beautiful as ever. I don’t know how it happens, but when a kilim goes from a rug to upholstery, it becomes textile porn. Yes, it’s that good.

Stool and Chair from Dot & Bo, Sofa by Urban Outfitters and Dutch home featured on The Style Files

Kilim upholstery is one of my favorite design elements to use when designing a space. The pops of pattern and color in small applications allows you to bring in bold patterns without overwhelming the space. Add a few Kilim pillows to a modern leather sofa and you immediately have warmth and texture. Place a Kilim chair in a traditional living room and awaken a sleepy space. Wear a Kilim handbag with a neutral dress, and voila! Instant panache. The options are endless, and best of all, every piece fashioned from a vintage Kilim is one-of-a-kind.

Pillows by Barrington Blue and Handbag by Artemis

Note:
Many of the items I have featured in this post are made from vintage Kilim, so the designs will vary and the availability will be limited. If you find something you like but the item is sold out, don’t fret. Many companies that sell Kilims will give you the option to be notified when the item will be restocked. Just remember the designs are vintage, so no two items are exactly alike.

Smitten with Emerald Green

I’ve been on a green kick lately. Specifically, emerald green. I’ve been implementing the color into so many of my current designs and I just adore it. It’s vibrant, unexpected and has so much classic appeal. A win-win in my book.

My dear friend, Audra Harvey, and I were discussing how perfect a vibrant green goes with grays, blacks and whites. And how lovely it is to use a bold color that is strong but not overwhelming. After our discussion, I moved my black-white entry rug into the dining room and decided to finally paint my dining table base emerald green. I have had the perfect green paint for two years, and a million Pinterest photos screaming for me to take the green plunge. And yet, I just couldn’t get myself to do it. What can I say, I have commitment issues when it comes to my home. ha! But when I saw the black and white contrast in the gray room, I knew I had the perfect opportunity to use a bright green. After painting one section of the table, I was smitten. My only regret is, I wish I had done it sooner.

Photos via Sage Atelier, Intimate Weddings, Burberry, Traditional Home, Domaine Home, Apartment Therapy, Honestly WTF, Brabbu, Enter My Attic

Pendleton – Elegant Americana

Winter is almost upon us, and nothing says winter like a good Pendleton blanket. The iconic Americana patterns, inspired by Native American designs and legends, have been gracing homes, outdoor festivities and autumnal road trips for over 150 years. Pendleton Woolen Mills produces beautiful, luxurious wool clothing and home wares with 100% pure virgin wool. The quality is incomparable. If you were ever to invest in a blanket, this would be it. They last forever!

Pendelton’s latest designs have me swooning. The fresh modern colors mixed with traditional patterns are a designer’s dream. They bring style to any space. Whether it’s simply draped over the sofa, hanging on a wall or keeping you warm, they make a bold statement. They are like works of art, adding depth and character, transforming the simplest of spaces.

So this year, I encourage you to buy an heirloom over the $20 throw that you will likely be throwing away by spring. And with Christmas just around the corner, these blankets would be excellent gifts.

Design Tip: If you want to take these beautiful designs to a whole new level, check out the book Hand-Stitched Home.

*Photos courtesy of Pendleton USA Blog, The Portland Collection, Porter Magazine and Urban Outfitters.