Finalists go into the next to last round
The Carpet Design Awards are highly regarded within the international carpet industry and form the centerpiece of the presentation of modern, hand-made carpets and rugs at DOMOTEX.
Shortlist 2024
Original small scale production design from an artist or designer
Pomme d'Or
Maison Rhizomes | Berlin (DE)
Our collection of rugs is a direct extension of the artistic work of Belgian painter and co-founder, Charlotte Culot. We use her paintings as the foundation and inspiration for our rug designs, creating a seamless extension of the artwork itself. Our entry, "Pomme d'Or," is derived from a series of paper collages painted with gouaches. The original collage bursts with the rich colors of Provence, where she sought her inspiration. To preserve the essence of the original artwork in the rug design, it's crucial to strike the right balance with all the colors (totaling 18) and pile heights (totaling 3). Each color collaborates with the others, both standing out and blending in harmoniously with its companions.
"Pomme d'Or" represents the summer season, symbolizing its warmth and joy, and serving as a tribute to the vibrant colors of South of France. The interplay of light and shadow in "Pomme d'Or" infuses it with radiance and depth, evoking a sense of innocence and beauty. Through this rug, we aspire to transport viewers to a world where they can almost feel the sun's warmth on their skin and the gentle rustling of Lavender in the Provence breeze.
Rhizomes 1 White
Maison Rhizomes | Berlin (DE)
Rhizomes 1 White draws its inspiration from Charlotte Culot's paintings, translating the essence of her artwork into our rug designs. This collection pays homage to Charlotte's exploration of the various shades of white in her color palette, bringing out the interplay of textures and layers, creating a unique connection across these distinct pieces.
Despite the collection's resonance with the current "all beige" trend, its roots trace back to Charlotte's initial foray into rug design in 2018. The debut piece, Rhizomes 1 White, stands as a masterpiece within the collection, drawing inspiration from organic and brutalist architecture. Its dynamic lines and shapes, combined with a careful balance of beige, white and off-white shades (totaling 14 colours), evoke this spirit. The overall effect is one of sophistication, a piece that exudes a unique character that is both bold and refined.
To maintain the design's integrity, it's essential to carefully balance these soft colors. Each color works together, either standing out or blending in smoothly with the others. The inclusion of black threads is a crucial factor that adds strength and harmony to the piece by clearly separating the lighter shades.
Rhizomes 1 White has consistently been one of the best-selling pieces in the collection over the years.
Maschera
Dena Lawrence | Perth (AU)
"Maschera" is a testament to the harmonious fusion of artistic creativity and meticulous craftsmanship. This exceptional silk rug transcends the boundaries of traditional floor coverings, encapsulating the very spirit of free-expression painting. Through the hands of master weavers, each thread meticulously intertwines to create a luxurious floor or wall artwork that captivates the beholder.
At the core of " Maschera" lies a carefully curated palette of 22 vibrant colours, meticulously woven at an astonishing density of 484 knots per square inch. This remarkable intricacy is a testament to the unparalleled skill of the artisans who bring this vision to life. The design concept draws inspiration from the elemental forces of earth and air, infusing the rug with an irresistible warmth, energy and playfulness.
"Maschera" is a warm and engaging colour scheme. Soft, earthy pinks and mustard tones form the foundation, complemented by inspiring shades of purple and magenta that dance across the surface. These colours are not mere pigments but evoke emotions, creating a visual symphony that resonates with the observer.
The rug's design, a direct translation of the artist's free-flowing and spontaneous painting style, exudes the warm and playful essence of earth and air. It captures the essence of nature's vitality and translates it into a tangible form that invigorates any space it graces.
Machera's composition is as luxurious as it is intricate. Crafted from 100% silk, every fibre exudes elegance and sophistication. The meticulous detailing of 484 knots per square inch creates a mesmerising interplay of colours, adding depth and texture to the rug's surface. Running your fingers over its surface is an experience in tactile artistry.
As a transformative masterpiece, "Maschera" not only tantalises the senses but also elevates the ambience of any space it occupies. Its vibrant hues breathe life into the surroundings.
Original contemporary designs showing optimum use of materials < 250 €/m²
1923 Runner (Prototype)
Christopher Farr Editions | London (UK)
Christopher Farr Editions collaborate with some of the world’s top artists and designers, both past and present, with every rug fabricated to the most exacting standards. This is a protoype for a design that is part of an exciting expansion for the CF Edition range into hand knotted rugs which to date have been produced in hand tufted qualities. CF Editions is designed for wholesale and third party online platforms and 2024 will see the release of more hand knotted designs, all produced in Afghanistan.
Kanoa by KAVI
Jaipur Rugs | Jaipur (IN)
Our carpet from the "Second Life Collection" is distinguished by its innovative design concept, representing a unique approach to sustainability. The project aimed to maximize the use of RMR (Reclaimed Material Residue), and all patterns and color combinations were created on-site through original ideas. A team of designers and artisans collaborated in Bhadohi and Mirzapur to explore various possibilities using the available materials. While we did not involve a renowned designer, the project exhibits an exciting overarching theme of sustainability and reinvention. Instead of seeking new materials, the design focuses on giving a second life to RMR. It combines traditional design elements with a fresh approach, emphasizing the interplay of textures, colors, and shapes. The project produced 359 carpets within 15 days, showcasing the synergy between creative designers and skilled artisans.
Labyrinth – Charcoal
Wool & Silk | New Jersey (US)
Labyrinth is constructed in a casual and easily approachable texture. The symmetrical element centered around a single point creates a kaleidoscopic effect, bringing depth to an uncomplicated design.
Original contemporary design showing optimum use of materials > 250 €/m²
Sakshat by KAVI
Jaipur Rugs | Jaipur (IN)
"Sakshat" showcases a design that is truly innovative and artistically profound. While it did not involve a renowned designer, our team's creative vision has given birth to a rug that breaks the mold in terms of design. At its core, "Sakshat" revolves around a powerful overarching theme. The prominent feature of a large circle symbolizes the never-ending, often tumultuous cycle of life, caught within the confines of urbanization and development. It reflects the impact of these forces on culture, art, and creativity, which are subtly diminishing.
On the flip side, "Sakshat" introduces another reality – that of creative minds seeing the world in fragments. This dichotomy is expressed through the innovative use of bold geometric shapes and intricate detailing, which adds vibrancy to the otherwise mundane aspects of life. The design transcends traditional boundaries, distorting patterns to create a mesmerizing, contemporary narrative that challenges conventional norms.
One of the most striking features of "Sakshat" is its unique color palette, ranging from pastels to solid hues. This diverse color scheme breathes life into the design and reinforces the rug's distinctive quality, making it a truly innovative and captivating piece.
Charm
SAHRAI MILANO | Milan (IT)
Charm is part of the Kaleido of Life Collection – a limited edition of 3 designs with 6 Rugs designed by the renowned designer Marcel Wanders for Sahrai. The charm of the symmetrical geometries created by the kaleidoscope and the desire to pay homage to the sensuality of nature’s elements gave rise to this collaboration. Finely Handknotted in New Zealand Wool and Natural Silk, Charm is inspired by the earth, and it is depicted through computerized graphic creativity that plays with the sensuality of natural forms. The earth is the Charm, an entanglement of fruits – the protagonists being pomegranate and the autumn colours.
The Raw Earth (Stefan Heyer)
Knots Rugs Ltd | London (UK)
The latest addition to the highly successful Artist Collaboration Collection with German Artist Stefan Heyer, ‘The Raw Earth’ has been skilfully hand-knotted in the Kathmandu Valley of Nepal using the world’s oldest traditional skills in the finest Tibetan wool, Chinese silk and Linen. Heyer specialises in layered, gestural abstract paintings as he drips the paint and scrawls words with the use of mixed mediums including oil paints, acrylic paints, crayon, pencil, marker and photo transfer. In this particular piece, Heyer has used oil, pastels and pencil on canvas in natural, earth tones which has been recreated with the use of over 40 different colours.
Stefan Heyer and his gestural abstracts are an exploration of histories, both personal and shared, and are inspired by pop culture, esoteric and philosophical issues of our postmodern digital age alienation, nature and history in general. Coming from a working-class background, his journey to a career in the arts was not born of privilege, but of passion. Experiencing the DIY Attitude of the 80s and 90s, it was this aesthetic underground rather than through academic training that has developed Stefan Heyer’s style and consciousness of art. After a career in street fashion as an art and creative director he became a full time artist in 2008.
His work can be found in private collections around the world. He is represented by galleries in the USA, Australia, Germany and France.
A new rug that interprets traditional designs for a contemporary audience
Kismat Manchaha
Jaipur Rugs | Jaipur (IN)
Our Manchaha, named "Kismat Ka Khel," is a testament to the creative ingenuity found within the cells of Dausa Jail, where BP Singh and Kabil discovered their artistic freedom. This Manchaha draws inspiration from the age-old game of cards, symbolizing the intricate interplay between strategy and destiny in life. Just as in the game of cards, where strategic thinking is vital, destiny plays an essential role that cannot be overlooked.
The design artfully symbolizes destiny through an hourglass, signifying the importance of time and destiny in one's life journey. It reflects the notion that life can transform from one moment to another, much like the transition from king to servant. The card symbols are stunningly portrayed, with diamonds prominently featured. The changing colors in each stage illustrate the dynamic nature of the game, with unforeseen twists and turns. Notably, the Ace of Spades is BP Singh's favorite card, depicted as a tree of spades.
Our Manchaha's design concept is innovative in portraying life's complexities, combining traditional elements with a distinctive and authentic look and quality. The narrative underlying the design is both exciting and meaningful, showcasing the weavers' creative expression and artistic vision.
Indigo Ripples
Manglam Arts | Jaipur (IN)
"Indigo Ripples Rug" is a captivating hand-knotted carpet that draws inspiration from the intricate Shibori patterns and the rich, deep indigo dye. Its design features mesmerizing ripples that mimic the serene flow of water. This carpet infuses your space with a sense of calm and a touch of artistic elegance, making it the perfect centerpiece for those who appreciate the beauty of traditional craft and contemporary design.
Jeevan Manchaha
Jaipur Rugs | Jaipur (IN)
Our carpet, "Hamare Jeevan Ki Roti," is a testament to the power of innovative design and artistic concepts. The creative genius behind this masterpiece is weaver Sundari Devi, who skillfully translated the intricate journey of agriculture into a work of art. This design is not just innovative; it is a celebration of the traditional way of life in India.
While our carpet was not developed in collaboration with a renowned external designer, Sundari Devi's expertise and craftsmanship are commendable. She has brought her unique perspective to the design, making it a truly authentic and innovative work of art.
The carpet's theme is exciting and deeply resonant. It revolves around the pivotal role of agriculture and food in human life. Sundari Devi's portrayal of farmers as "Anndaata" or "The God of Food" is a theme that transcends cultural boundaries, making it both exciting and emotionally compelling.
"Hamare Jeevan Ki Roti" stands out with its unique and captivating appearance. The design is rich in intricate details and vibrant colors that vividly capture the essence of life in Indian fields. The quality of craftsmanship is exceptional, and the storytelling aspect of the design adds depth and uniqueness to the carpet.
Original rug design demonstrating the flatweave technique
Curb - Gill Thorpe x FLOOR_STORY
FLOOR_STORY | London (UK)
Curb is a collection of bordered rugs, drawn from the alignment of paving slabs and parallel lines found in unrefined, urban settings. Curb breathes new life into traditional bordered rugs, which play the trick of making smaller spaces feel bigger, and larger spaces more centered.
Designed by FLOOR_STORY Head of Design, Gill Thorpe - Curb contextualises Thorpe's cityscape references once more, into playful schemes and demonstrating an ongoing intrigue into the nuances of patterns found in the every day. Curb takes direct inspiration from paint markings seen across pavement slabs and curbs, within urban settings. Markings are often faded over time; colours bright yet distorted.
Chalet
Creative Matters | Toronto (CA)
The Chalet design is a flatweave with a delightful combination of graphic and textile explorations. Chunky soumak, shaggy cut pile, chunky loop pile and bound rope in three thicknesses unite to create a proudly asymmetrical rug with elegant lines and interacting shapes. It was thoughtfully designed with both authenticity and sustainability in mind.
The intricate integration of such a variety of weaving techniques celebrates the beauty and artistry of diverse flatwoven styles. The design stands as a pioneering feat for Creative Matters, introducing an unprecedented construction that prominently features the bound rope technique. This innovative creation not only showcases the debut of such a technique within the brand's repertoire but also signifies a fusion of materials, skillfully intertwining rope, and a diverse array of mixed flatwoven styles. It is remarkable that this collection of techniques could be woven as one piece. For Creative Matters, the skillful inclusion of beautiful bound rope made the design an innovative success.
The overarching themes are cozy comfort and natural wool. The design includes linear patterns with each of the areas of charcoal lines approached in a different way. There is an interesting rhythm in the lines – the spacing creates a calmness but there is tension when the lines are closer together. And the brown shapes in the rug engagingly overlap these lines.
Chalet has a distinctive contemporary aesthetic as a geometric design yet enjoys a crafted feel because it is rendered in traditional handwoven techniques. It is important to note that the special wools used in the rug are natural/undyed with the exception of the elegant charcoal linear elements (a dyed wool) and silk rope.
Illuminata
Edelgrund GmbH | Hamburg (DE)
This carpet was designed for an event called "ILLUMINATA" during Milan Design Week 2023, and was prominently featured at the altar of a church. Our primary objective was to create a piece that was truly grand, visually arresting, and deserving of its place center stage at the altar. To accomplish this, we meticulously crafted a mesmerizing design that predominantly featured transitions between shades of black and white, with subtle hints of color strategically placed to interact with the reflections from the magnificent stained glass windows. As one's gaze glided across the carpet, distinct sections underwent dynamic shifts in darkness and brightness, culminating in a visually dramatic and enchanting experience that seamlessly blended with the sacred atmosphere of the church.
EDELGRUND Atelier's in-house designer, Alireza Lotfi, was tasked with the occasion's brief, and he unveiled the captivating concept "ILLUMINATA."
Contemporary Traditional or Transitional design collections demonstrating a common theme
Verso - Gill Thorpe x FLOOR_STORY
FLOOR_STORY | London (UK)
Revealing the raw nature of rug making through unusual compositions, Verso is designed by FLOOR_STORY Head of Design, Gill Thorpe. The rugs are hand-knotted by weavers in Afghanistan using textural Ghazni wool. The textural overlay rugs feature layered, painterly lines in pink, green and blue tones.
Uniting traditional hand-knotting techniques with visual references to the urban backdrop of East London, the collection of Turkish and Moroccan rugs take their name from ‘versus’, meaning turned or changed. The 4 designs draw on misaligned patterns, generated and interpreted from unusually placed ‘manhole’ coverings and are part of designer Gill Thorpe's ongoing interpretation of beauty found in the irregularity and quirk of misaligned street markings and other urban iconography. The name Verso also relates to how the craftsmanship behind the making of each rug is revealed from the back, telling the story of both maker and process.
White & Beige Collection
Maison Rhizomes | Berlin (DE)
Our white & beige collection draws its inspiration from Charlotte Culot's paintings, translating the essence of her artwork into our rug designs. This collection pays homage to Charlotte's exploration of the various shades of white in her color palette, bringing out the interplay of textures and layers, creating a unique connection across these distinct pieces.
Despite the collection's resonance with the current "all beige" trend, its roots trace back to Charlotte's initial foray into rug design in 2018. The debut piece, Rhizomes 1 White, stands as a masterpiece within the collection, drawing inspiration from organic and brutalist architecture. Its dynamic lines and shapes, combined with a careful balance of beige, white and off-white shades, evoke this spirit.
Rhizomes 3 Black & White showcases the role of texture in adding depth and complexity to a design. Varying cut pile heights create a rug of texture, giving it a distinctive tactile quality. The design exudes an organic vibe, resembling elements from the natural world, resulting in a bold yet elegant contrast. The interplay of texture and form combines sophistication with earthiness, a testament to Charlotte's artistic vision.
Our Runner Cobble Stone introduces a different shape to the collection, influenced by the designs of Le Corbusier and Charlotte Perriand. It captures the irregular shapes and varying sizes of cobblestones. This design offers a dynamic and visually intriguing pattern, adding diversity to our collection.
While some of these rugs seem to be ideally suited for placement on the floor, others appear to demand a sizable wall to truly come to life. This diversity is what delights us most about our collection. It presents a wide spectrum of possibilities. Regardless of the setting, our rugs function as architectural elements, going beyond mere decoration.
Espressionismo Floreale Collection
Laura Niubó | Los Angeles (US)
The Espressionismo Floreale rug collection explores the theme of the rebirth of life through flowers. Using colors and geometric shapes, each textile artwork captures one natural reproductive part of a flower in its most abstract form. The design of each rug is a study of color and composition that generates a sensation of a sinuous, elegant and forceful movement as these flowers own by nature remembering the importance of flora itself. This selection of sumptuous hues materializes in unlocking a vibrant way of living. We cannot deny the existence of negative events unfolding in our world; however, Espressionismo Floreale carries a powerful message of positivity that can uplift and inspire us all. The collection remind us that nature continues offering its beauty and support. It communicates the message to remind us of the magnificence that surrounds us, the power of nature, and the flowers that make our existence possible. It's about rethinking and readjusting to a positive and colorful lifestyle, uplifting our emotions and transforming our everyday environments.
A high-end customisation project or rug installation represented by high-quality images
Knots Rugs x Knowle Hall
Knots Rugs Ltd | London (UK)
Knowle Hall, also known as Midland Manor is a 19th Century grade 2 listed Manor House which has been restored to its formal glory over the past 6 years by its new owners. Split over 2 floors there are 3 formal reception rooms, a large gallery hallway and a large kitchen, all which have an ornate, intricate plaster work, ceilings and historic stencilling throughout.
Zebra Leopard Palms - Hand Knotted Rug
Wendy Morrison Design | Musselburgh (UK)
Wendy Morrison Design’s hand-knotted wool & silk rug, Zebra Leopard Palms, is the stunning centrepiece for a project for Hill House Interiors, an award-winning interior design practice with a global reach. Hill House Interiors’ brief was to combine glamorous Miami style with elements inspired by the sumptuous décor of Annabel’s Private Members’ Club of Mayfair, one of the most elegant clubs in the world, to create a lively and inviting entertainment space within a London residence.
Inspired by Annabel’s vibrant interior décor, with its focus on pattern, bold hues, leopards, lush jungles and a seamless narrative, a showstopping space was brought to life, with the exquisitely flamboyant Zebra Leopard Palms rug at its centre.
Zebra Leopard Palms was inspired by the richly textured work of Tony Duquette, a creator of fabulous film sets and designer to the biggest stars of old Hollywood. The rug design shows a mirror image of a sleek, gold-etched, leopard prowling through a vibrant jungle. The leopard’s tail entwines with its opposite number, adding to the sense of gentle movement, which is further enhanced by a forest bed of glorious orchids, Lotus flowers and chrysanthemums, and swaying palms. A classic monochrome zebra print wool base provides a wonderful backdrop to shimmering silk details.
In conjunction with a rose quartz bar, the rug design served as the cornerstone of the interior concept. The colour palette of pinks, greens and fuchsias from the rug was extended into the selection of furniture and soft furnishings, creating a cohesive and inviting ambiance.
The rug serves as a striking centrepiece within the room. The furniture was positioned to harmonise with the rug, which differs from the conventional approach of using a rug as a foundation for organising furniture; instead, Zebra Leopard Palms has been elevated to become the centrepiece.
Verso - Gill Thorpe X FLOOR_STORY
FLOOR_STORY | London (UK)
Revealing the raw nature of rug making through unusual compositions, Verso is designed by FLOOR_STORY Head of Design, Gill Thorpe. The rugs are hand-knotted by weavers in Afghanistan using textural Ghazni wool. The textural overlay rugs feature layered, painterly lines in pink, green and blue tones.
Uniting traditional hand-knotting techniques with visual references to the urban backdrop of East London, the collection of Turkish and Moroccan rugs take their name from ‘versus’, meaning turned or changed. The 4 designs draw on misaligned patterns, generated and interpreted from unusually placed ‘manhole’ coverings and are part of designer Gill Thorpe's ongoing interpretation of beauty found in the irregularity and quirk of misaligned street markings and other urban iconography. The name Verso also relates to how the craftsmanship behind the making of each rug is revealed from the back, telling the story of both maker and process.
A rug that is produced with a low carbon footprint or/and that incorporates ethical practices
Lizhnyk “Lis” (“Forest rug”)
Gushka | Hutsulshchyna (UA)
The carpet was made by the Ukrainian brand GUSHKA located in the pastures of Hutsulshchyna in the Carpathians in Ukraine. Inspired by the simple things of everyday life and nature, we feel obliged to convey this texture in carpets. The "LIS" collection (meaning "Forest" in Ukrainian) is full of images of the forest, its paths, the moss that covers the stones among the pines, and the dry grass that is blown in different directions by the gusts of wind.
The "Morning in Forest" rug is one of the collection's highlights. By combining different techniques and textures, we were able to convey the changes in nature, its colours and the feeling one gets when entering a forest clearing in the morning. We aim to reconnect city dwellers with the land. "Morning Forest" will teach you to walk barefoot and listen to nature breathing through your wool.
When you put your ear or fingertips to it, you will feel the universe of your home change at once. The world's noise vanishes, and tranquillity sets in. This is where you will discover your true self. You'll dash through the trees and grass, transforming into someone who's been asleep for ages. You'll experience the honesty of trees, bark, and ancient moss with your entire body.
Illuminata
Edelgrund GmbH | Hamburg (DE)
This carpet was designed for an event called "ILLUMINATA" during Milan Design Week 2023, and was prominently featured at the altar of a church. Our primary objective was to create a piece that was truly grand, visually arresting, and deserving of its place center stage at the altar. To accomplish this, we meticulously crafted a mesmerizing design that predominantly featured transitions between shades of black and white, with subtle hints of color strategically placed to interact with the reflections from the magnificent stained glass windows. As one's gaze glided across the carpet, distinct sections underwent dynamic shifts in darkness and brightness, culminating in a visually dramatic and enchanting experience that seamlessly blended with the sacred atmosphere of the church.
EDELGRUND Atelier's in-house designer, Alireza Lotfi, was tasked with the occasion's brief, and he unveiled the captivating concept "ILLUMINATA."
Foreshore Fields By Sebastian Herkner
M2Rugs | Hamburg (DE)
FORESHORE FIELDS is part of the new VIEWS collection by Sebastian Herkner for M2R. The design itself is typical for this collection, which is about structures and surfaces, as it shows a landscape structure of Northern Germany, home of M2R.
Very special is Foreshore Fields because of the used material. It´s made from 100% Nettle and is M2R´s first plant based rug. The nettle takes the dye different than wool, more in a irregular way. It creates a beautiful patina look.
The look of the material itself is the reason why FORESHORE FIELDS is a plain rug. The design itself is carved in afterwards. The look of the material is the important part of this design.
As we dye the nettle in the same way as the Tibetan wool, FORESHORE FIELDS can be customized in any color. But due to the irregular effect, every rug is unique.
Carpet Design Awards
Carpet Design Awards Jury
EUCA Award
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