Are you currently scrolling through thousands of pictures of dazzling home offices and wondering how do you make this work in a small apartment? Guess what? It is totally doable! And Sukhi is here to help you with it! After all, we operate as a fully remote company, so we know a thing or two about creating home office spaces that make us feel happy, inspired, and productive all day long!

In this blog post, we are going to cover the importance of having a dedicated area to work (believe us, it will make all the difference!) and how you can set up a home office in a small space without having to compromise on style or personality.

@elenitagr7

Why do we need a dedicated space at home for work?

The home office is an important space, especially if you are working from home as a freelancer or have your own business. Many entrepreneurs have talked about the importance of having a home office and how it has contributed to their business success. Here are 3 reasons why having a dedicated space at home to do work only will help you be more focused, creative, and productive.

1. A home office will get you into the right frame of mind

A home office allows you to be productive and focused. Traditionally, when we leave home and head to an office, our brain rewires to let us know that we should now be in work mode. When you work from home, you want your brain to process that transition similarly. But when we end up working in bed, however tempting and comfortable this is, it confuses our brains! Our minds are wondering, “Why am I not relaxing, right now?”. This confusion ends up making us feel sluggish and unproductive. On the other hand, if we work in bed too much, we might suddenly find it difficult to shut down. We might end up overworking and feeling burnt out. 

2. A beautiful home office can make your creativity bloom

Here, at Sukhi, we are all about ideas and creativity. And we strongly believe that the environment that we work in has a direct effect on how creative we are in business. In fact, having a beautiful home office that truly reflects your personality allows your imagination to go to incredible places. We definitely recommend you to be as playful and adventurous as you want with your home office so that it becomes a place you feel excited to get to instead of stifling you! 

3. A dedicated workspace can help you with distractions

Have you ever found yourself deeply focused on your work when suddenly you hear someone shouting, “Mom…Mom? Mom! I can’t find me….”. Replace Mom by Dad, Aunty, Honey, or any other cute name that you get called at home. Although our adorable loved ones mean no harm, they often distract us from our work. And it’s not their fault! When you are not working in a designated work area, it’s hard for the people around you to know if you’re working or just browsing the internet and online shopping your next Sukhi rug (although we all agree you shouldn’t be disturbed when you are doing the latter either!). When you have a home office, you can tell your loved ones that when you are at your work desk, they are not to disturb you unless it’s very urgent.

5 Simple steps to create a beautiful home office in your small apartment

Now that we have convinced you of how important it is to have your own designated workspace at home, let’s tackle the next problem! How do we fit a home office in a small apartment? Well, guess what? We are here to help you with that too. In 5 simple steps, we will share with you not only how to fit a home office in a small space but also how to make it look beautiful, stylish, and full of good vibes! Here are the 5 steps:

Step 1: Choose an unused space for your home office

First, find some unused space in your apartment: living room corners, bedrooms, end of the hallway, or even your walk-in closet can work! If you are having trouble visualizing where your home office can fit in your limited space, try drawing your room on a sketchpad and changing the layout. Sometimes, by simply moving our furniture around a little we suddenly create the space we were looking for! Although there are different places in your home you can turn into a home office, our advice is to find some space in the living room. 

We prefer that you avoid working in the bedroom for the reasons we talked about earlier: the bedroom should be a place for relaxing and play, not work! A living room is a multi-purpose room which makes it ideal for studying and working as well. You might even find that your trendy and stylish workstation in the living room becomes the centerpiece of the room! To really define the space and separate it from the rest of the living area, try placing a rug under your desk. Perhaps our modern oriental rugs collection will inspire you?

Step 2: Declutter and organize your home workspace

Now, your next step is to declutter and organize the chosen space. In a small apartment, less is more. In the Wabi Sabi philosophy, it is believed that less clutter can help you be more peaceful, focused, and productive. The goal isn’t to become a strict minimalist, but to keep the things that bring your heart joy. To create an even more clutter-free space, go paperless and opt for a wireless mouse and keyboard instead of using traditional ones. You will be surprised by how these small tweaks can completely transform your home-office and make it feel inviting and airy.  If you are planning to add a rug under your desk (and you should!), choose a light-colored one, like our Beni Ourain rug. Not only does it feel divinely soft under bare feet, but its minimal design and color also help reduce any unwanted noise in the small designated workspace you have created.

@alemcseven

Step 3: Bring in Feng Shui for positivity in your home office!

Wondering how to attract positivity and good vibes into your home office space? It’s easy! Just follow the Feng Shui for beginners series we have created for you. Feng Shui is an ancient Chinese philosophy that focuses on the flow of energy and how that can affect our lives. Basically, when you implement Feng Shui in your home, you placing every object with the intention of attracting positive energy. To achieve this, simply print out the Feng Shui Bagua map and follow the instructions on our blog. The Bagua map is an energy map that explains how to place objects so that the positive energy flows smoothly around you. For example, if you want to improve your creativity when you’re working, the Bagua map offers to add more silver or metallic elements to your designated space, facing west. 

Step 4: Choose small space furniture for your home office

Nowadays, finding the right size of furniture for our home has never been easier. Furniture shops stock small space desks and chairs dedicated to people who have small apartments. On top of that, you can even find places that are happy to create custom-size furniture that fits perfectly in your home! When looking for home office furniture for your small apartment, look for a slim desk, an ergonomic chair that slides smoothly under your desk, and shelves to place your books. If you need more workspace, how about having a pull-out or foldable desk you can easily tuck back in when you are not using it?! There are so many creative ways to create a small office space, so let your imagination run wild!

Step 5: Style your home office to reflect your personality!

Finally, we’ve reached the most exciting part of setting up your home office: decorating it the way you want to! Remember, a home office is not the same as a traditional office. No more boring cubicle with grey desks, drawers, and baskets full of papers to sign! Your home office is an amazing opportunity for you to let your imagination loose and personalize it as much as you want! There are no rules here so feel free to add your essential oils and scented candles to relieve stress and anxiety during the ultra-busy days.  Add a cute fluffy cushion to your chair for extra comfort and some framed photos of your loved ones on your desk. Also, bring in nature by adding cute succulents, different types of leafy plants and your favorite flowers to achieve a jungle office look!

At Sukhi, we believe that everyone is unique and because of that, we offer custom rug options to our clients! You can work with our designers to create the shape, size, and design rug you have always dreamed of! Here’s a guide to explain our step-by-step process on how we create our custom rugs.

Your next step

We hope that our simple steps have energized you to now create your own stylish home office no matter how small your apartment is! So grab a piece of paper and start drawing, use Pinterest or your favorite website for extra inspiration if you need it. Remember, create a space where you can be productive, focused, creative: a space you can truly thrive in! Happy decorating!

Wondering how to clean your beloved wool rug yourself? You’re not the only one. This thought has passed any rug owner’s mind at least once!

As rug-owners and lovers, our wool rugs hold a special place in our hearts. And for good reason! Rugs are the perfect solution for decorating and defining areas in an open space or adding a bold statement to a room. And wool rugs are a must-have! They provide warmth, comfort, and hold on to colors beautifully making them the perfect heirloom rug to be passed on to the next generation. 

Wool, as a material, provides great benefits for the rug. This high-quality material coupled with the impressive work of artisans produces delightful wool rugs that you can only admire. Because of this, cleaning and maintaining them to ensure their durability is a must. 

But instead of resorting to a professional cleaner straight away, you can take some simple rules to maintain and clean your rug yourself, at home. And we are here to guide you to do exactly that!

First, let’s look closer at why wool rugs are easy to clean and maintain. Then, we’ll dive into the main ways you can maintain your rug. Finally, we’ll explore some specific steps when cleaning stains and pet urine out of wool rugs and share when to call a professional cleaner.

Why wool rugs are easy to clean and maintain

If you are deciding between different materials for your area rug, wool should be on top of your list! Rugs made of wool are high-quality products that can be placed almost anywhere in your home. Let us explain why. 

1. Wool rugs are liquid and dirt resistant

Wool is a natural material that comes from sheep and comes with a coat of natural oil called lanolin. Because of this, wool rugs repel liquid and dirt.  They hold on to the dirt on their surface making it easy to clean with a vacuum cleaner when the time comes. 

2. Wool rugs are springy

Another reason why we believe wool rugs are great choices for longevity is that they are springy.  Wool rugs go back to their original form quickly after being crushed, stretched, or walked on. In fact, a wool rug can be stretched up to 35% and still come back to its original shape! This makes it ideal for going under furniture or in high traffic zones.

3. Wool rugs are fire-resistant

Did you know that wool rugs don’t catch on fire? Yes! Wool, as a material, does not burn. Instead, it will char and eventually extinguish itself. And this will only happen at extremely high temperatures. So you don’t need to worry when placing your wool rug in places where the temperatures tend to get high really fast like in front of your fireplace or in the kitchen. 

General day-to-day wool rug maintenance

So now that you know why we love wool rugs so much, here are some ways you can take care of these precious products. First, let’s look at some simple things you can do for day-to-day maintenance.

1. Have a no-shoe policy

As simple as it sounds, having a no-shoe policy will do wonders for maintaining your wool rug! Have everyone remove their shoes at the entryway before they enter your home. You can also show off your hosting skills by offering some comfy slippers to your guests! Not only have you saved your rug from soil and dirt from outdoors, but you also provided a warm welcome no one will forget.

2. Rotate your rug (or move your furniture around)

By rotating your rug, you are ensuring that each section is getting an even distribution of wear. If you feel that one side of your rug ends up being walked on a lot, simply rotate it to give that side a break. The same applies to furniture: rotate your rug so that the furniture is not always crushing the same areas. Or, if you feel like a complete makeover, move your furniture around and create an entirely new look in your room!

3. Flip your rug over

Similar to rotating your rug, also consider flipping your rug over altogether! Not only are you ensuring that your rug will even out wear this way but also, all the dust and dirt that has sunk into your rug will come out. Our favorite rug to flip over in the felt ball rug! This playful rug is also functional as it looks exactly the same on both sides. Enjoy your flipping!

@studiobrenstijl

4. Block out the sunlight

We always advise not to put your area rug in direct sunlight, especially if you have an oriental rug. Sunlight can cause the colors of your rug to fade over time. So to avoid premature fading, do not place your rug in areas where sunlight will hit your rug, use blinds and drapes when possible, and rotate your rug often so that the same area is not being exposed for too long.

5. Consider getting a rug pad

A rug pad is a great investment for rug owners! Essentially, a rug pad will extend the life of your rug and acts as a buffer between the rug and the floor that will help it last longer. Not only that, but a rug pad also adds slipping (think kitchen or bathroom) and provides more cushioning. 

6. Vacuum your rug regularly

It goes without saying that you should vacuum your rug often. But there are a few things to consider while doing so. For instance, make sure that you are vacuuming at the lowest intensity. Avoid using the spinning brush and set the beater bar high for minimal abrasion. You want to be as delicate as possible to keep your rug happy. 

7. Use a rug beater

Did you know that rug beater are still a great way to clean your rug of dust? At Sukhi, we often tell our customers to use a rug beater once or twice a year to get rid of dirt or anything unpleasant that has sunk into the rug. Simply hang your rug up (outside is preferable) and beat the dust out of it. If you don’t have a rug beater, just use the clean end of a broom.

8. Take care of your fringes

Those beautiful rug fringes, that we love, deserve our full attention too! We can easily forget about them and, without realizing it, end up discolored and damaged ones if we are not careful. And this often happens when we are mopping the floors with chemicals! These chemicals end up being absorbed by the fringes causing damage. So, next time you mop, make sure to tuck those fringes in and move your rug away from the area you’re cleaning. 

9. Air it out

Last but not least, give your rug some fresh air! Hang your rug out once or twice a year to air it out. This helps your rug “breathe” and prevents mildew or mold from building up. This is also recommended when your rug has been in contact with moisture. When hanging your rug outside, make sure that your rug is not in direct sunlight. A place with a lot of shade should do the trick!

How to remove spills and stains

Although wool rugs are liquid-resistant, some spills and stains can be rather stubborn to get rid of. The first rule is to deal with the accident as soon as it happens. Prompt cleaning of spills will greatly reduce the risk of stains on your wool rug. This way, you are catching them while they are still on the very surface and won’t have regrets later!

Here’s our mantra when it comes to cleaning stains: blot, don’t rub.  So first, dab the stain with a dry cloth or white paper towel to absorb all the excess liquid. Then, take some lukewarm water and blot the stain. Show your rug some love and be patient. In case of more stubborn stains like wine, tea, or beer, consider mild detergents such as  James Stain Wonder. We recommend using this product as a “leave-in” stain remover as it may take up to 12 hours to see the results.

If these steps are not fixing the problem, it’s time to call a professional carpet cleaner for advice. Do not use harsh chemicals or put your rug in the washing machine. This will definitely damage your wool rug and end up costing more in repairs or replacement.

How to maintain rug with pets

Opposite to popular belief, pets and rugs can co-exist happily if you take the right measures! While we love our furry babies to bits, it’s important to recognize any tendencies that can damage your rug. For instance, if your dog likes to chew a lot, it’s best to get a rug without fringes. Not only will they chew and tear these fringes out, but also, these can be a serious health hazard for your pet. If your pet urinates or vomits on your wool rug, deal with the situation as soon as possible. Blot the excess liquid and use mild detergents to disinfect and get rid of bad odors. Vacuum your rug often to get rid of pet hair.

When to get a professional cleaner for your wool rug

A that concludes our list of tips for maintaining your rug at home! We hope that these tips were useful and can now deal with any mishaps without worrying! Although daily maintenance can be easily achieved at home, there comes a time to get your rug cleaned professionally. In fact, Lisa Wagner, an expert rug cleaner and restorer,  recommends getting your rug cleaned by a professional every 2 to 3 years. Taking this step, and all the others we shared above, will allow your rug to last for even longer!

It’s important to first highlight why consumers are choosing to support businesses that are transparent in their production.

Almost 5 years ago to the day, the world was shaken with the news of the Rana Plaza factory collapse in Bangladesh. A global tragedy, that saw the loss 1,134 innocent lives. The event occurred partly because of poor working conditions, an overcrowded factory, and some dubious business practices.

Choosing a product that has been ethically made ensures that the hands that created your product had above-average working conditions and were treated with dignity and respect.

Here are 3 knock-on effects that occur when you buy an ethically made product:

1. You encourage environmentally friendly production and defend humane working conditions

Ever heard that quote by L.N Smith, “Every dollar you spend… or don’t spend … is a vote you cast for the world you want.” These are particularly wise words and consumers are taking it to heart. We are becoming increasingly inspired to support businesses that are either ethically produced or environmentally friendly or in most cases, both.

Social Influence has played a huge part in the substantial growth of this industry and we are seeing more and more brands compete with industry leaders that have for a long time dominated the market. In this instance, by purchasing an ethically made product – you get your pie and you get to eat it too.

2. You uplift communities

You may not have the time to go with a hands-on approach to supporting your local communities and that is completely okay. Buying a product that has been ethically produced is another way you could uplift and empower communities around the globe. For example, at Sukhi, we preserve age-old rug making traditions in Morocco, India, Turkey, and Nepal. And, our passion is to not only empower our skilled artisans but to ensure they earn above-average wages as many artisans have families they take care of.

The result is that our artisans live comfortably and their children can get an education, uplifting the families both now and for the future.

3. You play a key role in both the present and future of our planet

By purchasing an ethically made product, you are putting a direct message out to brands that ethical practices are more important than cheap prices. Each dollar you spend has a lot of weight behind it and it’s pretty exciting that you get to decide where you spend it considering the ripple effect it will have on consumerism, communities and our environment.

Looking at the above, it’s evident that your impact matters and becoming an advocate for brands that align with your values is powerful. Conscious consumerism is a growing trend that encourages slow design high-quality products, and connections between artisans and consumers resulting in a safer and healthier environment for all involved.

At Sukhi, we not only support this trend – we encourage it by being transparent in the production of our rugs and the communities that share their skill and tradition with us to create memorable and unique rugs for our customers. Meet our wonderful team based in India here .

In Part 1 , we discovered the meaning of Wabi Sabi and where it originated from. We were transported back in time, in ancient Japanese tea ceremonies where Wabi Sabi was born as a way to explain that one does not need to be perfect to be precious. As Wabi Sabi made its way to the West through arts and books, more and more people found serenity and happiness in its message.

So now that we understand the meaning and the importance of Wabi Sabi, how do we apply it in our life? In this blog post, Part 2 of our Wabi Sabi series, we will explore the different uses of Wabi Sabi. We will touch three main points: design, architecture and art. Also, as the icing on the cake, we will find out how exactly these Wabi Sabi home tips can help enhance your personal life and create a less stressful work life.

Wabi Sabi in architecture, design and art

The philosophy of Wabi Sabi can be most seen in architecture, interior design and art. But we can apply its principles in any design philosophy like storytelling, presentations, fine art, or web designing. It is a way of thinking that “less is more”, and that unevenness can be charming.

In the West, design mostly involves clean lines and symmetry. Wabi Sabi moves away from this idea of continuously perfecting your space to, instead, appreciate what you have. This often leads to decluttering and more authenticity.

The design focuses on only a few tribal symbols, diamonds or waves. Simple designs can be powerful, even in home and interior decor . It allows people to feel enriched by the story behind creating a heirloom product .

@hurmaavanvalkeaa

(Editor’s note: If you want to learn more about creating your own Sukhi custom rug, we created some tips and an easy-to-follow guide for you!)

1. Wabi Sabi in architecture

In Japanese architecture, Wabi Sabi has also found its place. Many Japanese homes have a washitsu, a traditional room which is mostly empty apart from having a few tatami mats, a vase with a single flower or a piece of wall art. Once more, this encourages you to pause and appreciate these few items you see as individual pieces of art.

2. Wabi Sabi in design

Another way of applying Wabi Sabi in design is celebrating empty spaces. Indeed, creating minimalist designs with plenty of empty spaces and only a few items is a way of presenting art powerfully. The focus is being placed on what’s the most important – those 2 or 3 key items that you have decided the audience would value the most. Like adding a modern oriental rug in a minimalist living room.

As Antoine de Saint-Exupery puts it, “Perfection is achieved, not when there is nothing more to add, but when there is nothing left to take away.”

This reflects the beauty of embracing Wabi Sabi in design.

3. Wabi Sabi in art

Have you ever seen the “one-corner” style in Japanese paintings? An example is a painting depicting a large ocean and sky with only a small detail to the corner of it. This may be a bird or a fishing boat. But that tiny detail is hardly visible, and this is the Wabi Sabi style. It evokes the depth and space that the ocean and sky occupy, leaving you feeling a sense of being part of something so vast and incredible. Often, this visual can give you a sense of peace and relief. We are all part of something bigger.

Implementing Wabi Sabi in your life

It is not only in design and art that Wabi Sabi finds its place. Being a philosophy, Wabi Sabi can be implemented in your everyday life, from the most mundane tasks to the most complex and meaningful decisions you make.

“When the Japanese mend broken objects they aggrandize the damage by filling the cracks with gold , because they believe that when something’s suffered damage and has a history it becomes more beautiful.”

In relationships, careers, health, money matters, interest and life goals, we constantly experience changes, we re-assess what we really want, and we reconsider options. Sometimes the changes are subtle, like deciding to go with a different wine for your dinner one night. Other times, the changes are major: you decide to quit your job, you decide to move to another city or country, or you decide to embrace a life-changing habit. Let’s now look at how Wabi Sabi can be implemented in our life and our careers.

1. Wabi Sabi and life

Wabi Sabi teaches us that all things are dynamic, and nothing is everlasting. So, trying to hold on to the past and over plan the future is pointless and stressful.

In the award-winning book, “Wabi Sabi: Japanese Wisdom for a Perfectly Imperfect Life” by Beth Kempton , the author discusses with her friend about Wabi Sabi. This friend explains the concept of Wabi Sabi creatively by comparing it to bamboo. While bamboo grows, it is sensitive to its environment. It flexes itself and follows the wind and the sunlight. Its roots are firm, but its direction is ever changing as it shows little resistance to the environment. As a result, bamboo stands strong and in harmony is what is around it.

Holding on to the past, does not allow us to live in the present. Being caught up in the nostalgia of the best times of our lives or the regrets of failures we think we could have avoided can cause more damage than good. The past is meant to remain there. It offers invaluable life lessons that can be used to make decisions in the present.

Worrying about the future, does not allow us to celebrate current achievements. How many times have you achieved a small goal and started asking yourself what’s next without celebrating the moment? How many times have you questioned yourself on how you can achieve more or do things better? If you are quick on your feet and ambitious, chances are this has happened to you many times.

Wabi Sabi allows you to become aware of this and live in the present more. It allows you to accept the good and bad things that happened in the past and let it go. So, the next time something good happens in your life, slow down, relax and soak up all that joy!

2. Wabi Sabi and career

Being stressed at work seems to be a normality, these days. Afterall, that’s how the expression “Thank God it’s Friday!” or “TGIF” became popular!

No matter whether you are working in a major corporate firm or if you are self-employed, you will be juggling with tight deadlines, external pressures and, many times, the need to attain perfection in your tasks.

And, more often than not, we find ourselves multi-tasking. However, being busy does not always mean that you are being productive. Wabi Sabi encourages us to give our undivided attention to one particular task. So instead of trying to do multiple things at a time, embrace Wabi Sabi!

If you have a project that needs to be done or a deadline to meet, isolate yourself and create small achievable goals. Remind yourself, progress is better than perfection. Close all social media, put your phone on silent mode for a few hours and find a quiet spot to focus. You will be surprised how much you will get done this way! Also, remember to re-assess, adapt to changes and celebrate each small task completed. That’s the Wabi Sabi way.

@kisseundkarma

Focus is important in any task we choose to do. From writing the next best-seller to baking a delicious black forest cake, being present in that moment guarantees you are giving your best. Artists and craftsmen often give love and undivided attention to their creations. The result is a unique piece of art that can be kept and enjoyed for years.

What’s next?

In Part 2, we explored the uses of Wabi Sabi and how to implement it in our lives and careers. We looked at practical ways this Japanese philosophy can be achieved by taking small actions everyday. As we come to the last part of our Wabi Sabi series, we invite you to take some time and reflect on how you can use Wabi Sabi in your life. What are some habits you can start now that will allow you to live more in the present and accept imperfection?

Maybe, you might choose to start journaling every morning to help put your thoughts on paper. Maybe, you can start revisiting everything you have achieved this year and show gratitude towards it. Maybe, you can review your own flaws and imperfections and instead of blaming yourself for them, learn to accept them and be more aware of them. Use that awareness to improve your life and the lives of those around you.

Whatever you choose to do, do not stress yourself with how big or small it might be. Remember, everything changes. So, no matter how small a change might feel today, the end results, in a year or 10 years, will still amaze you!

In part 3, our final part of this series, we bring Wabi Sabi home and have some fun with our Sukhi rugs! We will focus on how to apply Wabi Sabi in your home and how Sukhi rugs can demonstrate the principles of Wabi Sabi.

Sukhi relates well with Wabi Sabi, as every Sukhi rug is a unique piece of art. They may differ slightly from the design on the picture which shows it is made just for you.

We hope you are enjoying the Wabi Sabi series so far!

In a world where we are being constantly exposed to social media, new products and services, technology and the need to always improve ourselves, it can be difficult for us to stop, look around and appreciate what we already have. Many of us chase the things we think we need instead of being satisfied and content with our current state of life. This is when Wabi Sabi can help!

This post delves deep into this Japanese philosophy of accepting imperfection as a way to improve our lives and happiness. Our own philosophy revolves around joy and serenity and we believe that Wabi Sabi fits harmoniously with it. In its very essence, Wabi Sabi means embracing imperfection as nothing is, in fact, perfect in life. We decided to create a detailed blog post in 3 parts to explore this philosophy and see how our Sukhi fans can embrace it!

First, we will look into what Wabi Sabi means, its history and how it made its way to the West. In Part 2, we will explore the different uses of Wabi Sabi, how Wabi Sabi can be applied to interior décor and why interior designers embraced this philosophy. Last, but certainly not least, Last, but certainly not least, we will explain to you how to Wabi sabi your home using interior elements like rugs , lights and plants while paying attention to what you choose to purchase.

If you are looking for ways to apply the Zen philosophy to your life, Wabi Sabi may be the solution for you! So, make yourself a cup of tea, sit in your coziest chair and enjoy your read.

@landlig_funkis

What is Wabi Sabi?

Wabi Sabi is a complex concept that does not have a concrete definition. Its philosophy has been passed from master to student indirectly over the years and is now ingrained in Japanese culture. In fact, in 2009, Marcel Theroux roamed through Japan and asked people to describe Wabi Sabi, as part of a BBC tv series “In Search of Wabi Sabi” . Unsurprisingly, many Japanese simply said that Wabi Sabi was unexplainable.

According to Richard Powell, famous author of the book “Wabi Sabi Simple”, Wabi Sabi is “a way of life that appreciates and accepts complexity while at the same time values simplicity”.

“Wabi” can be translated as “rustic simplicity” or “understated elegance”. It means that less is more and that there is beauty in simplicity. It highlights how we can feel free from stress and anxiety when we own less material wealth.

“Sabi” is translated to “appreciating the old and faded”. This means that “Sabi” invites us to take pleasure in imperfection and understand that everything grows old, gets damaged and fades away. It accepts the natural cycle of life and death.

Together, these two words create a beautiful symbol of humility, simplicity and gratitude. At Sukhi, we can’t help but admire this philosophy and feel humbled by this Japanese vision of life.

The 7 principles of Wabi Sabi

If you want to achieve the Wabi Sabi lifestyle, there are 7 principles you must embrace:

1. Kanso: Simplicity

In Kanso, you choose to rid your life of clutter and focus on clarity. Similar to the philosophy of minimalism and essentialism, Kanso invites you to live in a less-is-more manner. Indeed, this lifestyle allows you to be more selective with what you consume, worry less and choose to devote time to what is most important to you.

2. Fukinsei: Asymmetry

Do you ever find yourselves obsessing too much on creating perfect symmetry? This is most common in art and design and creates stress. Fukinsei challenges our idea of controlling balance and symmetry. Instead, it describes asymmetry as natural and beautiful, and a reason why the world is so amazing. Everything falls into place, even if imperfect.

3. Shibumi: Beauty in the understated

Do you believe that there is beauty in simplicity? The principle of Shibumi invites you to focus on elegant simplicity and not flashiness. This is commonly used in minimalist fashion and nude looks. In Shibumi, we highlight natural features without over-embellishing. This way, we preserve authenticity.

4. Shizen: Naturalness

The Japanese definition of nature or naturalness (shizen) distinguishes itself from the western definition as it includes human intervention. While we are mostly prone to see nature as something untouched and wild, Japanese describe nature as being intertwined with humans. The most used example to illustrate this is the Japanese garden. The design of the garden is not raw nature but created in harmony with nature with purpose and intention.

5. Yugen: Subtle grace

In Yugen, we find beauty in what is not revealed. This form of beauty is mysterious and leaves the mind imagining the possibilities. Photographers, artists and designers can use this principle to visually imply more by showing less.

6. Datsuzoku: Freedom from habit

When living by Datsuzoku, we free ourselves from daily routines and habits. Instead, we embrace the unknown and explore being unconventional. By doing things differently and thinking outside of the box, we open ourselves to a world of possibilities. Often, this allows us to have fun and be more creative in design, like repurposing rugs into overdyed patchwork rugs .

@malin.safin

7. Seijaku: Tranquility

The final principle is Seijaku, meaning tranquility, stillness and solitude. This relates to the feeling of mindfulness you can cultivate to help you deal with a busy life. Thus, we can design our lives in such a way that we find tranquility amidst the noise, calmness amidst chaos.

In part 3 of our Wabi Sabi blog series, we will explore these 7 principles with Sukhi rugs and see how we can embrace them by designing our living spaces!

Origins of Wabi Sabi

According to a Japanese legend , there was a young man named Rikyu who wanted to learn the Way of Tea. He went to a tea-master who tested him by asking to tend the garden. Rikyu did so perfectly but, just before showing the immaculate garden to his master, shook a cherry tree. This caused a few leaves and cherry blossoms to fall on the ground. And this is how Rikyu presented his “perfect garden” to his tea-master. To this date, Rikyu is recognized as the one who understood the meaning of Wabi Sabi.

So, the concept of Wabi Sabi has its roots in the traditional Japanese tea ceremony. It was also illustrated by the well-loved teacup which has an irregular shape and had been chipped from years of being used. This teacup, although old and used, symbolized enjoyment, love and serenity.

Wabi Sabi emerged in the 15 th century as a reaction to the dominating lifestyle of lavishness, material wealth and ornaments. Wabi Sabi quietly revealed itself as the art of finding beauty in imperfection and accepting that nothing is everlasting.

A well-known example is “ kintsugi ” where cracked pottery is fixed with gold dusted lacquer to highlight imperfections and show that it is more beautiful as time passes.

It is important to highlight, however, that this form of art is not sloppy. Indeed, Wabi Sabi isn’t an excuse for poor craftsmanship. Instead, Wabi Sabi is an art that focuses on quality, care and attention.

@idascozycorner

Wabi Sabi in the West

As westerners value the Greek ideals of beauty and perfection, Wabi Sabi can feel like a breath of fresh air. The relentless pursuit of perfection can tire us down and cause stress, anxiety and judgement. This is where the Wabi Sabi philosophy comes into play. Wabi Sabi invites us to pause and feel grateful for what we already have and accept that nothing lasts eternally.

As popular writer Leonard Koren highlights in his book “Wabi-Sabi: for Artists, Designers, Poets & Philosophers” ,

“Wabi Sabi is the beauty of things imperfect, impermanent, and incomplete, the antithesis of our classical Western notion of beauty as something perfect, enduring, and monumental.”

This book came out in 1994 and instantly became popular among artists and designers. After that, countless books were published in the West exploring the philosophy of Wabi Sabi and its use in modern life, especially in interior design and garden architecture.

These days, it is believed that there are more people in the West adopting Wabi Sabi in their homes than in Japan itself! More and more westerners embrace Wabi Sabi when designing their living spaces to create serene environments .

You might have been embracing Wabi Sabi too without even knowing it! Do you love anything vintage, rustic and antique? Finding beauty in what is well-worn, chipped and scratched is the wabi sabi philosophy!

@marj0085

What’s next?

In Part 1, we explored the meaning of Wabi Sabi, its origins and how it found its way to the West. Part 2 covers the different uses of Wabi Sabi in art, design and lifestyle. Part 2 allows readers to really incorporate the values of Wabi Sabi in their life to increase happiness and peace of mind.

Have you ever imagined designing your own custom rug? Maybe you want to add a cute bunny to a nursery rug. Or maybe you took a picture of a beautiful pattern you saw while walking the streets in India and wish you could have brought this back with you. At Sukhi, we can make that dream into reality! We make custom rugs so you can add your own personal touch and have creative power over the design of your rug. In this blog post, we choose to focus on oriental rugs as they are the easiest to customize. But you can still make custom rugs from our collections, including our felt ball rugs and other Indian wool rugs. We always make sure this is an enjoyable and hassle-free experience for you!

Custom rugs are made with an innovative process where, as the customer, you decide the style, design, colors and shape of your rug. With Sukhi, you not only get to design your very own custom rug but also experience the entire rug making process with us! This is becoming more and more popular among Sukhi rug-lovers and, therefore, we created a clear process to help you choose and design your rug effortlessly.

Over the years, we have created masterpiece custom rugs which are unique, creative and rare. And, we are constantly pleasantly surprised by how fun and creative our rug buyers are!

But before delving deeper into the process of making your perfect custom rug, let’s talk more about oriental rugs and how they are made. This will help you understand the craftsmanship of these incredible rugs. It will also help you decide if you prefer a hand tufted rug or hand knotted rug.

What are oriental rugs?

Many people believe that oriental rugs are, basically, rugs that are made in the Orient. This usually includes rugs from China, Nepal, India, Turkey and other parts of the Middle East. They are also known as Indian rugs or Persian rugs due to their origin. However, oriental rugs are not so much named after “where” they are from as much as “how” they are made!

Oriental rugs are made in a very special way which make them the heirloom rugs that can be passed on from generation to the next. They are stunning both in quality and design. They are the perfect living room rug if you want to create a bold statement and add an exotic historical touch to your room.

Sukhi rug-owners often receive compliments for displaying one of our modern oriental rugs. They definitely make a huge impact as they harmoniously marry contemporary and antique. But it is truly the craftsmanship involved in making Sukhi’s modern oriental rugs that make them special.

At Sukhi, we make our modern oriental rugs in India. This results in our rugs having beautiful interwoven patterns and floral outlines. We use high quality wool and bamboo silk. Our rugs collection showcases detailed designs and vibrant colors made of natural dyes. Our oriental rugs can be hand knotted and hand tufted.

Making hand knotted rugs and hand tufted rugs

Hand knotted and hand tufted are both oriental rugs, but not quite the same! The difference lies in the complex way they are made. Because of this, the time frames of making a hand knotted and hand tufted rug are quite different.

Hand knotted rugs are made by our skilled team of weavers using ancient techniques. These rugs are made by hand and are very time-consuming. Each piece of wool is placed on a specially designed loom so Sukhi weavers can carefully and slowly work their magic. The raw wool is carded, cleaned and dyed into beautiful vibrant-colored yarn.

Then, the makers set vertical threads in the loom to hold the yarn together tightly and create the durable rugs they are to become. They start tying knots one by one into the warp thread, paying close attention to the design requested. This is a meticulous job so you can understand why admire our weavers so much for their expertise!

Finally, the knots are secured, and an exquisite oriental rug has been created! The final step is washing the rug and trimming any extra pile to even it out. Complex, stunning and glossy, our hand knotted rugs are a true work of art.

On the other hand, we have our beloved hand tufted rugs. These rugs are less labor intensive as they are not made by tying individual knots. This allows them to be a more affordable option, although they boast the same exceptional quality.

Our experienced rug makers receive a backing that features an imprint of the requested design. Then they carefully use a tufting gun to push the wool through the backing following the design. A foundation is applied to the backing using a safe latex glue. After that, a protective cloth is added to the rug’s back.

Lastly, the rug is sheared to create a high-quality pile. Although less complex than hand knotted rugs, hand tufted rugs are still beautiful pieces to add to any living space.

Which one is the right choice for you?

Now, you might be asking yourself which rug is the best choice for you. There are some key differences between our hand knotted and hand tufted rugs and these might help you choose.

If you are looking for delicate craftsmanship and a durable heirloom rug that can be passed onto the next generation, opt for the hand knotted rug. Here, you are not just paying for the high quality of the rug, but, especially, for the devotion, precision and attention of the artisans.

On the other hand, if you enjoy redecorating and switching things up every few years, then a hand tufted rug might be the best option for you. These rugs are eye-catching but do not come with a hefty price tag. Their affordable prices will allow you to follow trends and easily buy another modern oriental rug when you are itching for change!

Whichever rug you decide to choose, you will never feel disappointed by Sukhi’s quality and designs. These luxurious rugs carry a historical, cultural and artisanal value like no other rug you will find!

How to customize your oriental rugs

So, you have finally decided which rug is best for you and now you wish to customize it! Here are four simple steps that Sukhi has created to make it happen!

1. Choose your design

Here, you can select from our vast range of rug pictures. You can specify the size, colors and designed that you find in our display. Or, if you can ask for specific changes to be made, like, different colors, shape, size or design.

If you have a specific design in mind, don’t hesitate to share that with us too. Our team of designers will help you turn your words into drawings so that you can recreate exactly what you had in mind. You can even send us pictures or paintings if you have any!

2. Review and approve CAD drawing

Our designers, then, create custom CAD drawings for you to show how your design looks like on a Sukhi rug. Don’t hesitate to ask specific questions and to make changes if you want to. We really enjoy this part of the process as you get to be involved in the making and learn more about designing oriental rugs! To give you a better idea of what a CAD drawing will look like, here is an example below. To the right you can find the CAD drawing of a hand knotted rug and to the left is the CAD drawing of a hand tufted rug.

While reviewing these CAD drawings, you have the opportunity to work closely with our design team to have a behind-the-scenes experience with the Sukhi Team. You can even ask for a sample of the rug if you want to – although this might add to the delivery time of the finished product.

Once you are happy with the design and colors, you can approve the CAD drawing and let the work begin!

3. Making your custom rug!

This is the exciting part: your dream is about to turn into reality! Now that you know the difference between hand knotted and hand tufted rugs, you have a clearer idea of what to anticipate in this stage.

We will keep you updated at different times during the making process. Hand knotted rugs can take up to 14 weeks to make depending on the design and size you choose! Hand tufted rugs will take less time (about 10 weeks) since they are less complex to make.

Our amazing weavers and makers will pay attention to the CAD drawing you approved to create your custom oriental rug. They will use the highest quality wool and bamboo silk. We chose these materials as they are natural and sustainable. Bamboo silk gives your custom rug its beautiful sheen and wool creates strong and durable products.

Our artisans take care of the fringe, backing and evening out the pile. The rug is washed and cleaned multiple times to rid it of any dirt it might have. The result is breathtaking! We have been making these rugs for years, and yet, every time we can only admire the quality of the finished product!

4. Ready for shipping

Finally, your rug is ready for you! And we are happy to ship it to you for free! No matter where you are in the world, Sukhi promises your rug will reach your home safely. We also promise to refund any extra costs such as taxes or custom fees.

So here you have it: your own custom rug! And don’t forget, if you are looking for something different than our oriental rugs, you are welcome to make custom rugs from our other rug collections as well!

Now that you are well-informed and ready, you can start this fun adventure with us by checking our online rugs collection. The Sukhi team is happy to answer any additional questions you might have about this, so feel free to reach out. We hope this blog post has helped you clear any doubts you had about custom oriental rugs and allows you to start designing your own piece of art!

Have you ever found yourself dealing with a narrow empty space in your home and were not quite sure what to do with it? That’s when runner rugs come into play! Runner rugs have become trendy worldwide: they have become the go-to for many interior designers when it comes to filling long narrow spaces or giving the illusion of elongating a particular space. In today’s blog, the Sukhi team has decided to look into runner rugs and find out how to use them. We will look into the best places to have a runner rug and how to pick the perfect runner rug. So, is a runner rug a rug worth investing in? Let’s find out!

What are runner rugs?

So, what exactly are runner rugs? No, they are not rugs that you run on- although that would be the case if you have young children! However, a big reason runner rugs are called “runner” is because they are usually placed in areas with a lot of traffic. Runner rugs are rugs that a longer than they are wide. They have the appearance of being narrow and long as if to fit a hallway. These long rectangular rugs are often placed in specific areas. They serve multiple purposes, such as guiding people to a certain destination, protecting flooring in high traffic zones and bringing texture and décor to empty spaces.

Why do we need runner rugs?

At Sukhi, we believe runner rugs are one of the essential rugs every home needs. Here are some main reasons why:

1. Décor

First of all, runner rugs are an effortless way to enhance the décor in the empty narrow spaces in your home. They can easily add character and comfort to any room or space in your home. Runner rugs come in different shapes and forms. The possibilities are endless! If you love boho-décor, try a beautiful modern oriental rug. If you are more of a minimalist, opt for a flat weave rug with a neutral color like grey, white or cream. And if you have young children running around barefoot, how about adding a fun and colorful felt-ball rug in their bedroom?

2. High traffic areas

Another important reason why everyone should own a runner rug is because they can be used in high traffic areas around the house. In areas where there is a lot of traffic, it is easy for the floors to get damaged from wear and tear. Having a durable rug in that area, like a hallway or on a staircase, will help protect the flooring from that risk. In addition to that, these places are more likely to get dirty from spillages, pet urine and shedding, and dirt from outside. Runner rugs are a great way to manage this problem, especially if you have expensive wooden flooring.

3. Leading to a space

Runner rugs are often used to guide guests towards designated areas in your home. Being narrow and long tricks the mind into thinking that a certain destination awaits at the end of the line. So, you can use a runner rug in your house to help guide your guests in an artistic way and, thus, be the perfect host! This makes them a must-have rug, especially in open floor plans where you need to visually separate different living spaces.

Where are the best places to have runner rugs?

1. Hallway

So now that we know why it’s a good idea to own a runner rug, let’s determine the best places to put them. First, the most obvious place you would want your runner rug is the hallway. These are those long narrow corridors that lead to other rooms in your house. These areas are usually the most boring and uneventful parts of a house. However, you can easily turn that around and make it your favorite place by adding a runner rug! How about a dazzling hand-tufted rug to create a dramatic entrance for your guests? Or a dark color entryway rug to help with that high traffic?

2. Staircase

Runner rugs are an essential rug to have if you have hardwood stairs. Hardwood stairs are classy and luxurious. However, they can be very slippery with socks on! To avoid slips and falls, especially if you have young children, roll a runner rug down the stairs. This will not only add interesting details to the staircase but make it safe for you to run up and down the steps anytime of the day. It also helps with reducing noise of heavy or rushing footsteps!

3. Kitchen

Let’s admit it: rugs in the kitchen have become very trendy these days! Place a runner rug between your cabinets and island and watch your kitchen transform! Also, make sure that it is placed in front of the sink so that you can enjoy the plush feeling on your feet while doing the dishes. No more need to go looking for socks and dreading those cold tiles during winter. You will finally start enjoying those chores!

4. Open floor plans

Finally, another place you absolutely must have a runner – or many- is in open floor plans. Open floor plans are large living spaces that are not separated by a wall or partition. Common open floor spaces include living rooms and kitchen, living rooms and dining room or living rooms and study. Another example of an open floor plan are studios, where your bed, kitchen and living room are in one open space. Because of this lack of direction, runner rugs can be used to define different spaces and guide visitors around. For example, in a cozy studio apartment, you can use a runner rug to guide your visitors towards the eating or sitting area and away from the sleeping area.

How to pick a runner rug?

1. Material

Since runner rugs are placed in areas of high traffic, it is important to consider the material of the rug. You want to ensure that the rug is durable and can handle people – and pets- walking over it multiple times every day. For this reason, wool rugs remain our material of choice! We believe wool rugs are the perfect rug to use as runner rugs as they are durable, dirt resistant and springy. This means that no matter how many times it is walked on, a wool rug is most likely to go back to its original shape. A wool rug can be stretched out 30% and still return to its original form!

On top of that, wool has natural fibres that are resistant to dirt and liquid. This means that the dirt lies on top of the rug and can be easily vacuumed away during cleaning time. Wool rugs are also perfect rugs to have in the entryway as they will not absorb all the dirt, slush or rain from outside. These are only a few benefits of wool rugs but there are many more!

2. Style

What style runner rug is best for you? Have a look at your room and decide what style you are going for. A beautiful oriental rug can add an exotic feel to your home. A contemporary rug will blend in with your chic furniture. Or maybe you want to jazz things up with a magnificent Turkish patchwork rug to add a bit of history in your kitchen. Find the right style that reflects your personality and wow your guests.

3. Color

Runner rugs cover a large surface area, especially in hallways and on staircases. So, finding the right color is very important. Think about the type of color that will reflect your personality. Do you want something more muted, that will blend in to offer a serene and minimalist feel? Or do you prefer to create a dramatic effect with a bold contrasting color? This will really depend on how you feel and what emotions you are trying to convey about your space and, evidently, yourself! Also, think about the needs of the area you place your runner rug in. For instance, Entryways might want darker colors to handle the high traffic!

4. Texture

Rugs come in different shapes and forms. So, deciding on what the right texture is for your runner rug is important. This will depend on what your needs are for that given space. Are you looking for a robust rug that will stand the test of time in a high-traffic zone? In this case, you might want to opt for a flat weave rug as these tend to work best when it comes to wear and tear. They are durable and easy to clean which make them the perfect addition to a hallway.

Or do you want to create a luxurious and soft guide rug in your open floor plan? In this case, you might want to try a soft felt-ball rug. These are nice additions in a living room area as they elicit feelings of relaxation and unwinding. Entertain these different ideas and decide what is most vital for you. There are so many textures you can choose from: hand-knotted, braided, felt ball, chunky and flat weave. The possibilities are endless!

Where to get custom-sized runner rug?

Finding the perfect runner rug can prove to be difficult. This is because all our spaces are different, so it becomes hard to find the perfect size for that narrow hallway we have. On top of that, maybe the only rugs available in that size are not the right color, design or texture we need! However, the Sukhi team has your back! At Sukhi, we offer custom-size rugs and nearly all of our rugs online. You can easily decide how long and wide you need your rugs to be based on the space you need covered. So, make sure to select the custom size option when picking your perfect Sukhi rug!

If you are shopping for rugs online on our website and have some questions about delivery times and costs, here are some answers to help you!

How long does delivery take?

The production time depends on the rug you choose. It can vary from 2 weeks to 12 weeks! The information is always shown on the website: when you select your chosen product, you can see the delivery time details. As a general rule, felt ball rugs and most Indian rugs take 4 weeks. Once the rug is made, it takes 1-3 weeks for it to be delivered.

Is it free shipping?

Yes, it is! Not only does Sukhi offer free shipping, but if there are any custom fees or taxes added, we guarantee refunding these costs to our clients.

Do you ship worldwide?

Yes! Sukhi offers free delivery all over the world!

Read our FAQs for more answers to any questions you might have about Sukhi and your next eye-catching runner rug!

Open floor plans have become popular among homeowners all over the world. The open concept makes homes feel more spacious and allows for more flexibility for interior design. However, having such a large space needs definition and area rugs can be used for that purpose. While different area rugs can be combined in open floor plans, one can easily feel confused and intimidated by how to mix and match multiple rugs in the same space. In today’s blog post, the Sukhi team will delve deeper into open floor plans and how to combine area rugs in an open floor plan to define different spaces.

@amandadrostphotography

What is an open floor plan?

An open floor plan is when two or more living spaces have been joined to form a larger space. More traditional houses usually have walls or partitions separating these different spaces such as the kitchen, the living room, and the dining room. However, in the 1990s architects moved towards an open space layout to create a more communal feel in houses. This way, the people in the kitchen would not feel isolated from the people sitting at the dining table or in the living room. Communication can flow more easily, and no one feels left out.

As more and more people opt for the modern open space look in their homes, it can become a bit overwhelming when trying to separate the different areas. For instance, where does the kitchen area stop and living room start, or how can I define my dining area from my sitting area? On top of that, having different furniture and homeware spread out in an open space can look tacky and feel like you are living in a showroom instead of a house. At Sukhi, we believe that area rugs are the best solutions to all the above questions you might have been asking yourselves.

How can area rugs be used in an open floor plan?

Rugs are a perfect way to define different areas when you have an open space layout in your home. They can effortlessly decorate and set the tone you want in your living spaces. They create the illusion of containment so that your guests immediately understand what each area’s purpose is. So, each area in your open floor plan can easily be defined without walls or partitions by having the right living room rug, dining room rug, and so on.

Area rugs come in different shapes, textures, and forms to fit your tastes and needs accordingly. But it can feel daunting to have multiple rugs in one area without them clashing. Because of this, having an open floor plan can make having more than one area rug tricky. It is important to know how these different rugs look together so that they look complementary and aesthetically pleasing.

So, to help you, the Sukhi team has come up with 10 tips to combine area rugs in an open floor plan. These tips will, hopefully, entice you to take some creative risks when it comes to decorating your open floor plans with rugs!

How to combine multiple area rugs in an open floor plan?

Layer them up!

The first tip we have is to layer your rugs up! You can easily add some style to your sitting area by doubling your rugs. Try adding a patterned rug on top of (or vice-versa) a plain, more neutral rug and see how much visual impact this creates. The perfect patterned rug to work with is an oriental rug. This rug is absolutely beautiful and draws attention to its eye-catching design and quality.

Oriental rugs are perfect for layering up as they can easily complement a simpler rug like a flat weave rug. This style looks absolutely gorgeous in a dining or sitting area. Layering up rugs has become quite trendy these days, especially among people who have big interior spaces. It helps add more texture and style to your space.

When doing this, ensure that you are matching the neutral rug color with at least one color on the patterned rug. This ensures a smooth transition between the rugs and makes the rugs fit perfectly together. It is also a good idea to take into consideration the nearby furniture and upholstery so that there are no clashing colors.

Play with shapes

You can have some fun with your rugs and mix and match rug sizes to define different spaces! A round rug can sit nicely on top of or next to a rectangular rug. Round rugs are also a great way to delineate a statement chair, table or other pieces of furniture in the living space.

The shape of the rug can also relate to the shape of the furniture it is being placed with. For example, a round dining table can be enhanced with a round dining area rug and a sectional couch will look perfect with a large rectangle area rug. There is, of course, no rulebook here so if you are feeling more adventurous, you can make a statement by pairing your sitting area with a large round custom size rug as well!

Another tip is to use a long narrow rug, also known as a runner rug, to give a sense that it is leading to somewhere! For example, you can use these in the foyer in areas that lead to your lounge. This will instinctively guide your guests to the right areas in the open space. Modern oriental rugs are great for this purpose as they can act as a guide and an art-piece.

Mix different sizes

When you live in an open layout house, you will have to define those different areas. Some of the areas are smaller than others. For example, you might want to define a small area in the sitting area as a play space for babies and toddlers – a Beni Ourain rug can do the trick here! Or you might want to use a bigger rug under the couch to define the relax area from the eating and work area.

@ohsokel

Color pairing

When playing with different rugs in the same space, you can usually mix and match any style you want as long as you a pairing your colors properly. This is very simple: make sure that all the colors that you choose are in harmony with each other and offer safe color pairing. For instance, cream and pink or grey and turquoise pair well together.

If you want to play it safe, choose the common complementary colors such as blue and orange or green and red. A trick is to grab a color wheel and pick opposite colors: these are the perfect complementary colors. These pairs of colors will automatically set the tone in your open floor plan and add charm to your home.

Use a dominant color when mixing patterns

If you just love patterns and cannot seem to grab anything else when homeware shopping, then don’t panic! It is possible to have different patterns in an open floor area without your home looking like a circus. The key is to remain consistent with your color choices.

As you play around with different geometrical shapes and patterns, opt for a dominant color. Easy ones are white, cream, brown, grey and black. Make sure all your rugs share a similar color. Feel free to mix and match different shades and tones as long as the dominant color remains the same. Also, don’t forget to match the dominant color with your other furniture and accessories like cushions and curtains! When playing with patterned rugs, you might wish to keep the rest of the furniture quite neutral.

Some patterns look better together than others. For instance, small polka dots, stripes, and floral patterns pair well. Make sure that the heaviest patterned rug is placed as the focal point of the room and the other rugs are less dense to create a more cohesive design.

Match your style

While decorating your open floor plan, don’t forget that it still needs to reflect your style and personality. Make sure that the theme of the interior design, including the rugs you pic, match your style. For instance, if you are aiming for a boho-chic look, aim for intricate patterns, patchwork rugs, bright colors and add some leafy potted plants to tie it all up. Minimalists might want to stick to neutral tones with simple to none patterns and focus more on texture and quality.

@ellefotografie

Have complementary textures

If you don’t feel like mixing colors and patterns, opt for different textures that complement each other. Yes, you heard right! Rugs come in different textures: felt ball, Beni Ourain, flat weave, hand-knotted, hand-tufted, braided and others. All these different types of rugs offer a different feel and look. You can have some fun by combining rugs that share the same color but have different textures to break the monotony of the open floor plan.

For instance, consider layering up a practical flat weave rug with a fun felt ball rug to add more dimension to the room. You can also use this method to define smaller areas from bigger ones. For instance, the felt ball rug can be placed next to the fireplace or next to the bookshelf to create a more personal cozy environment. On the other hand, a hand-tufted rug can be placed under a sofa and coffee table to bring the furniture together and designate the area for social gatherings.

Contrast rugs with your furniture and homeware

Sometimes, it is hard to draw the line when buying sequined cushions, patterned rugs, and beautiful flowery upholstery. Although, all of these things look great individually, when put together in the same space, they might seem chaotic and out of place. For this reason, it is important to always consider the furniture and homeware you already own before deciding on what rug to get.

Open floor plans are ultimately a huge space that you have to fill. To create a cohesive space, consider making only one aspect of it the focal point. A focal point is that area your eyes go to immediately when entering a room or space. In an open floor plan, decide whether the rug or the sofa or the fireplace or something else is the focal point. For instance, if you have a beautifully embroidered armchair, pair it with a more neutral rug. And in a different section of the living space, like the study area, match the patterned rug with your solid wood desk.

Focus on a bold statement rug

Keeping focal points in an open floor plan in mind, you want to focus on a bold statement rug. Having multiple rugs in an open space is fine as long as they all “know their place”. By this, we mean that each rug serves a purpose. Some offer warmth and comfort in the lounge, others are slightly more robust for the dining area and others are smaller, softer with playful colors for the children. However, among all these area rugs, you can have one rug that sets itself apart from the others. This bold statement rug adds visual weight to the room, acts as the focal point and does not clash with the other more neutral rugs.

Focus on quality

Last, but certainly not the least, the most important thing to focus on when combining multiple area rugs in an open floor plan is the quality of the products! Different colors, patterns and textures will not do much for you and your home if the quality is lacking. That’s why, at Sukhi, we make quality our number one priority when making our wool rugs. We love wool because it is durable, stain and heat resistant and springy. Wool is also non-toxic and allergy-free. This means that you can invest in it and rest assured that it will last you for years. It might even find its place in the next generation’s living room!

So here you have it: 10 tips to help you combine multiple area rugs in an open floor plan. But, of course, there are no rules in our book! Be bold and playful and remember let your personality shine through! At Sukhi, you can easily shop rugs online and can now find your perfect rug using our visualizer tool. We hope that our tips will help you create beautiful and unique open-space interiors!

Winter is finally here: time to find that cozy spot on your felt ball rug and enjoy some hot chocolate while reading your favourite book! And there’s no need to worry about being close to the heater or fireplace. With the progress in technology, we are now able to enjoy incredible heating systems in our house where heating is now under our floors! However, you have some pressing questions that need answering: will your rug affect your underfloor heating? In today’s blog post, we will discuss if we can we put a felt ball rug on a floor with underfloor heating and what are the things to consider.

@micestademimbre

Can felt ball rugs be used on underfloor heating?

The short answer to this question is yes – felt ball rugs are unlikely to affect your underfloor heating. However, it is important to understand why there would even be such a concern in the first place. Underfloor heating is a modern method of heating where electric cables or hot water pipes are placed under your flooring to heat your homes. This means you no longer require radiators.

However, floors with underfloor heating should be allowed to “breathe” so that it does not overheat and cause damage to your floorings. Owning a rug implies creating another level of insulation on top of your floor. This means that it is important to determine whether that extra layer will affect your underfloor heating. For this reason, we believe that wool rugs are the perfect rugs for underfloor heating. And because our beautiful felt ball rugs are so popular, we want to assure you that they are great rugs for underfloor heating as well!

What are felt ball rugs and why are they safe for underfloor heating?

At Sukhi, our felt ball rugs are made of 100% pure wool from New Zealand. The wool is then shipped to Nepal where our amazing team carefully rolls it into felt balls by hand. The wool is rinsed and rolled into balls multiple times until it becomes the perfect felt ball shape. Our team rolls thousands of balls this way. Then, the balls are dried naturally in the sun before finally being sewed carefully into our collection of felt ball rugs. So, all our felt ball rugs are rugs from Nepal.

The main reason why felt ball rugs are great for underfloor heating is because they are made of wool. Wool, as opposed to many synthetic materials, is heat resistant and durable. The wool fibres naturally conduct heat effectively and almost immediately release the heat out. This allows the heat to circulate easily from under the floors through the rugs and out in the room.

What precautions should you take with rugs on underfloor heating?

While we encourage to use felt ball rugs or any rugs made of wool on underfloor heating, there are also some things to consider so that you can have a stress-free experience.

Thickness

Although being about 2cm thick, felt ball rugs are quite light and they are two-sided, so they can be turned around regularly. This makes them very practical for families with kids! However, the reason why you should be mindful of the thickness of your rug is that very thick rugs make longer it will take for it to release the heat into the room. This means that you might find yourselves having to wait a bit longer for the temperature to rise. Fortunately, these issues do not arise with felt-ball rugs that you can easily flip over when needed.

Flooring

Since there is a risk of overheating, you need to be careful with the type of flooring that you have. Stone and tiles are good conductors and diffusers of heat and are probably the best to pair with rugs in the winter months. Wood floors, on the other hand, can get damaged from overheating if your rug is too thick or not the right material. Therefore, make sure that you are pairing the right rug size and thickness with the appropriate flooring.

Size

When it comes to underfloor heating, size matters! Try your best to go for smaller rugs instead of big ones that will cover large surface areas. Small rugs that act more as accents than room insulators will ensure that the floors do not overheat and distribute the heat around the room freely. At Sukhi, you can also buy custom size rugs to make sure you have the right size for your room.

Great ways to decorate your place with felt ball rugs

Now that we have established that felt ball rugs are great rugs to use on underfloor heating, here are some tips and where and how to style your home with them. But, remember: the goal of having rugs in underfloor heated rooms is not to provide insulation from cold but more so to offer comfort and create accents in your living spaces. So, focus on how smaller sized rugs can really make a difference in your rooms in terms of style, aesthetic and mood.

Rugs in the living room

If you have more of an open living, dining and kitchen concept in your apartment, rugs can be used to stylishly define these different living spaces. Place a rectangle felt ball rug under your coffee table, to offer a softening tone to you living room and define the area. Sukhi’s felt ball rugs are the perfect living room rugs and marry well with wood or laminated floors.

@KreettaJärvenpää

Rugs in the bedroom

The most important place you would want to place your rug would be the bedroom. Who would not enjoy waking up every morning and having their feet greeted by a soft and warm rug by their bedside? Having a light colored felt ball rug as your bedroom rug will not only enhance the room but also provide you with comfort and warmth.

Rugs in the nursery

Since Sukhi’s felt ball rugs are made of 100% pure wool, they are non-toxic and allergy free. This makes it the perfect rug for nurseries. Felt ball rugs are eye-catching and add a playful touch to your baby’s room while providing you and your toddler a safe and comfortable experience.

Rugs in the kitchen

Felt ball rugs are a stylish addition to any kitchen. They provide some extra conform from the traditional tiles feeling. Place one next to the sink so that you can appreciate its softness while you are doing the dishes – the ultimate therapeutic experience!

Rugs in the study

Finally, another room where a felt ball rug can find its place is the study. These rooms are made for work and focus so laying your bare feet on the soft felt balls can act as a great stress reliever for those tense times. Place the rug under your desk or next to your favorite armchair.

So, felt ball rugs are definitely unique in style and have become an effortless way to decorate any home. You can easily buy rugs online on our Sukhi website and find the perfect felt ball rug for you!

These rugs can act as a bold statement or soften the visual effect of any room in one easy placement. Do not hesitate to indulge in a beautiful felt ball rug during these winter months as they will not affect your underfloor heating.

@DesignClaud

Felt ball rugs are unique, eye-catching and perfect for families with young children. They are available in different shades, colors and patterns to fit your preferences. The Sukhi team encourages you to have one – or even many – during these winter months.

We love our dogs to bits. They are part of the family. They are the spoilt babies we would do anything for. But, often, we find ourselves in this dilemma: is it worth buying that gorgeous living room rug when we have a pet? The answer is yes! Rugs are a great way to effortlessly style your living spaces, define areas in open spaces and add a bold statement in any room. That’s why we created this ultimate pet-friendly rug guide for dog-owners. 

Having a dog does not mean you no longer get to enjoy the beauty, cosiness and warmth of luxury rugs in your house. Instead, there are certain things to consider when being a pet-owner. Here is how to make your home and rugs as pet friendly as possible so you enjoy the best of both worlds!

Common dog problems

Before we go in detail into how to pick your pet-friendly rug, we will first look at the most common issues dog-owners face when owning a rug. Common pet problems include chewing, vomiting, urine, shedding and smell. 

• Chewing

Most common among puppies than adult dogs, chewing can be a real problem for pet owners. Chewing will severely damage your rug. In addition to that, swallowing certain rug material, fringes or rug backing can endanger you pet’s life.

• Dirt

Your dog will be bringing dirt, mud and anything else caught in its paws into the house and risks trampling over your rugs that way. These adorable animals have no clue what harm they are doing to your rug but dealing with the consequences can be a real headache for you.

• Vomit

It has happened to all of us, pet-owners. Our fur-baby ate something that did not go down well and now it is vomiting all over the carpet. Stains and bad odour from vomit and bile can be very tough to get rid of.

• Urine

If not trained properly, your dog might be thinking that the carpet is the most enjoyable place to urinate. The real issue is once a dog feels comfortable urinating in a certain spot, it will most likely do it again and again! Other dogs sometimes feel like marking their territory that way.

• Shedding

Some dog breeds shed more than others and it can become a real nightmare for a rug-owner. The amount a dog sheds really depends on its breed and health. However, generally, dogs shed based on seasons. They usually develop a thicker coat for the cold winter months and shed during spring. 

• Smell

Finally, getting rid of that stubborn dog smell from your rug can prove to be a complicated task. Your fur-baby could be leaving its odour on your rug when it sleeps, sits and rolls over onto it. In winter, your dog probably enjoys the cosiness and warmth of your living room rug, lazing around all day and looking adorable.

Things to consider when buying a pet-friendly rug

So now that we know what some common problems dog-owners are, let’s look at things to consider when buying the perfect pet-friendly rug. 

• Material

Rugs are available in different materials, so it is important to choose wisely when you are a dog-owner. At Sukhi, we believe that wool is a great material for pet-owners as it is stain-resistant, durable, springy. This is because wool fibres are coated with lanolin which naturally protects the material from absorbing liquids, grease and dirt. This makes it easier for dog-owners to clean vomit, dirt and urine quickly. Wool rugs are also durable and springy: wool can return to its original shape even after when it is stretched upto 30%. So, you do not have to worry about your big dog spending too much time napping on your rug!

Truth be told, we believe that wool rugs are perfect for any home, but especially for pet-lovers!

• Color

Picking the right color for your rug when you are a dog-owner is crucial. Having rug colors that match the natural color of your dog will make it harder to see those stray hairs in between cleaning sessions. So, if you have a white puppy, like a Samoyed, go for a light-coloured rug. On the other hand, if you have a have a Rottweiler, consider a dark-coloured rug to hide those pesky hairs. 

Another thing to consider is absorbing colors. Absorbing colors are colors that do not reveal stains and dirt. Since stains and dirt will most likely be a daily problem in your home, having rugs with absorbing colors, like brown, maroon and dark blue, can really help not draw attention to unpleasant marks.

• Style

Two main things to think about, as a dog-owner, when purchasing your perfect pet-friendly rug are the patterns and structure of your wool rug. 

Although wool rugs are very effective when it comes to cleaning stains and dirt and will stand the test of time, the construction of the wool rug you choose could be risky. Wool rugs come in different shapes and forms: the choices are abundant. You might feel lured by modern styles like braided wool rugs, or a bedroom rug with nice fringes. However, these would not be the best choice if you have a pet. It might get its paw nails caught in the braids and chunky structure, making them uncomfortable and damaging your rug. Your dog might also chew on fringes which are a dangerous health hazard if it ends up swallowing them. Pick a rug that has a simple structure and is low pile, like a beautiful hand tufted oriental rug.

Not only are these types of rugs flat and more durable around pets, they usually come in different colors and patterns. Patterns provide intricate details that mask hairs, stains and dirt. They are the perfect rug for the living room or other big living spaces.

• Size

Although you might really want that extra-large Beni Ourain rug to put in your living room, it might be smarter to go with two smaller ones instead. On a practical level, smaller rugs are easier to maintain and clean. Also, if one of the smaller rugs is beyond repair, you will not feel like it’s such a big loss!

• Backing

When dogs urinate on a rug, the liquid sinks to the bottom and is absorbed by the backing of the rug. For this reason, it is critical that you take into consideration the backing of your rug when you have pets. Rug backings you should avoid include rubber or latex. This is because these backings absorb liquids and stubbornly hold on to odours even after multiple washes! On top of that, the moisture and dampness can severely deteriorate the backing and damage your floors as well. Woven rugs are the best choice for pet-owners as their backings are usually made of cotton or polyester. These materials are easier to clean and do not hold on to bad smells.

Credit @Annavihervaarasta

How to maintain your pet-friendly rug

The first tip we will give you when it comes to maintaining your rug is addressing the problem as soon as possible! When you dog vomits, stains or urinates on the rug, deal with it immediately. Don’t allow time to pass as the liquids will be absorbed into the rug and, potentially, reach deep into the rug and the backing which will make it even harder to clean.

Vacuum your rug to clear up the dog hairs. When using your vacuum, make sure to set the beater bar on high so that the vacuum does not pull on the rug fibres and damage it.

Spot treat your rug when you can by using special spot treatment cleaning products. If you want a more natural cleaner, try using baking soda or vinegar to get rid of urine stains and odours.

What precautions dog-owners can take

• Place a doormat at the main entrance

As the saying goes, prevention is better than cure. 

The easiest way to maintain your rug is to place a doormat by your entrance door. This way, your dog’s paws will be releasing all the dirt, mud, and outdoor debris at the entrance before entering the living area. Maybe you can even train your fur-baby to wipe its paws!

• Consider getting a hypoallergenic dog 

If you already have a rug and are now considering getting a puppy, consider a breed that is hypoallergenic. These dogs do not shed which is save you time vacuuming. If that’s not an option for you, then consider brushing your dog regularly to get rid of any excess hair it might be carrying.

• Train you dog

Make sure that your dog is properly potty trained, so it knows to urinate and poop outside of the house only. Start early and reward it for good behaviour. You can also train your dog not to go sit on expensive rugs by making it off-limits. Your dog will see the rug as a no-go zone and respect the limitation. 

• Trim you animal’s nails 

Nails can often get caught up in rug material. This can be dangerous or, at least, quite uncomfortable for your pet when it is moving around in the house. To reduce wear and tear of your rugs and make your dog’s life easier, make sure to trim its nails often.

Credit @Maditashaus

So here you have it: the ultimate rug guide for dog-owners. We know that no rugs are completely pet resistant, but, hopefully, we showed you how to choose the perfect pet-friendly rug and maintain it by taking a few important steps. You can easily buy rugs online at Sukhi on our website and find your perfect pet-friendly rug!