Richard Penna

PIle Rugs

For sheer warmth and tactile interest a pile Moroccan rug is unbeatable.

Larusi first made its reputation for authenticity and quality 25 years ago by sourcing vintage Beni Ourain pile rugs crafted by Berber women in the Atlas mountains, east of Souad’s home town Fez. Traditionally they are made from undyed sheep’s wool, hence the monochrome colour. These Berber rugs often featured in the Modernist homes designed by Le Corbusier, Frank Lloyd Wright and Alvar Aalto. They are a timeless classic just as admired in homes today, but the high quality vintage rugs are increasingly hard to find.

Colourful pile rugs from the Azilal Berbers in the Middle Atlas are famous for their bold use of colour. They are characterised by abstract often asymmetrical patterns incorporating diamonds, triangles and zigzag motifs, each laden with symbolic significance.

Boucherouites (from the Arabic term 'bu sherwit' which translates as 'to scrap') are hard wearing rag rugs made from recycled materials and with a painterly use of shape and colour. The epitome of up-cycling, they instantly add personality and pizzazz to an interior.

To this day all additions to the Larusi collection are sourced and curated personally by Souad.