A carpet structures the room and makes it appear homely. No wonder that it is now an integral part of the interior. And while models in plain colors have adorned the rooms in recent years, a new living trend has successfully established itself in 2018. The ethnic carpet presents itself colorfully and with exotic, varied motifs. In the article you will find out what this term actually means, how such a statement piece is staged in the interior and which colors are suitable for interior design. We also give some useful tips on how you can determine the right carpet size yourself. Let yourself be inspired by the furnishing ideas and bring a bit of exotic charm into your own four walls.
Ethnic carpet – what does the term actually mean?
Ethno carpet is a very broad term that is derived from the English word “ethnic”. Actually, historians do not agree on when the first carpet was braided - but it is assumed that the first knotted carpetsfrom the Orientand Asia come from. Proof of this is the Pasyryk carpet, which dates back to around 500 BC. was tied. The art of knotting was gradually developed further by the nomadic tribes, and imaginative motifs emerged. The first hand-woven models were made exclusively for private use - the richly ornamented designs reflect the contemporary taste and creativity of the artists. Certain themes can be found again and again - all the patterns were initially inspired by the flora and fauna, but gradually certain symbols began to decorate the carpets. They even fascinated Alexander the Great, who brought some variants to Europe.
Originally, an “ethnic carpet” was considered a carpet that was made using the manufacturing techniques of nomadic tribes in Asia and the Orient. Then some entrepreneurs began to decorate their models with signs and motifs from the Indians in North and South America. Ultimately, these designs have recently become very popular in Brazil, Argentina and Mexico. Nowadays the term covers several regions in the world. This refers to any model that is influenced by a nomadic culture.
What is the difference to European models?
In contrast to the Orient and Asia, where hand-woven carpets still form a large part of production, carpets in Europe have only been machine-woven since the 19th century. Velvet, velor and plush are used extensively as materials. The ornaments have similarities to the oriental models, especially in terms of subject matter - flowers, animals and even buildings can be found on the European models. But while a carpet presents a stylized aesthetic, the European interpretations are magnificent and elaborately decorated.
Anyway, the “Ethno Chic” category includes rugs in several different styles. We give you an overview.
Ethnic carpet from South America exudes country house style charm
An ethnic carpet from South America can be recognized primarily by its color scheme - fire red, pink, yellow and navy blue form an attractive ensemble. The patterns are mostly geometric, inspired by the motifs that decorated the ponchos of the Indians. They made their own clothes and then used them as floor coverings or blankets. Therefore, the models are flat-woven, can be easily washed in the washing machine and are more similar to a bedspread in terms of fabric and thickness. By the way, in Brazil and Argentina, carpets are still mostly handmade. Ideally, the design is unique and reflects the lifestyle of its manufacturer.
And this is how the carpets from South America are showcased in the living room: they cut a particularly good figure in modern country house style furnishings. Together with a rustic wooden table with metal legs, designer armchairs with a simple Scandinavian look and a metal pendant lamp, they form a comfortable dining area with rural charm. Their role is to add a splash of color to the otherwise simple white room design. They set accents and always come to the fore. But they also prove to be a functional addition to the interior - they are noise-absorbing, so they are perfect for sound insulation over the floorboards. And if the carpet thickness is simply not enough, you can combine the design with a short-pile carpet (see photo above).
Carpeting with faded colors imitates the first oriental carpets
Incidentally, a new model of ethnic carpet has recently become successful - the designs are inspired by the first oriental carpets. The faded color creates a visual connection between the original and the new interpretations. Just like it was 2000 years ago, there are three different groups of motifs to choose from - the patterns are either geometric, floral or figural. In the first group, several lines in the middle form geometric figures such as rhombuses, triangles and squares, which divide the carpet into 6 to 9 areas. The second group reinterprets the idea of paradise through flowing lines and floral motifs. The third group is inspired by historical events and reflects certain mythical scenes.
And this is how carpets are presented in an oriental style these days - they add the finishing touch to vintage furnishings. In the bedroom, right next to the bed with a canopy and the shabby-chic style chest of drawers, the short-pile carpet automatically attracts attention.
But it also quickly becomes an eye-catcher in the living area. It also visually separates the seating area from the kitchen with the adjacent dining area, giving the open space a structured look.
Moroccan carpet combines tradition and modernity
While the oriental-style carpets are richly ornamented, the Moroccan textiles are deliberately kept discreet. Three, maximum four colors – or one color in different shades – give the designs an elegant look. Orange, yellow, fire red and especially azure blue are part of the Moroccan living style. It is precisely the expressive palette and patterns located in the middle field and surrounded by a border that have become the hallmark of Moroccan production.
A Moroccan carpet traditionally has dimensions of at least 4 x 6 meters - and is therefore usually too large for living spaces in Europe. Runners serve as replacements and provide more comfort in front of the corner sofa or under the dining area. They look particularly good in eclectic interiors where fabrics, furniture and colors are chosen according to theMix and Match Trendbe combined.
The modern carpet from Asia in the spotlight
Originally, the weavers in Asia imitated the oriental style from the Far East - but gradually they developed their own style. It should be mentioned that the traditional carpets in India, for example, differ greatly from those in China or Thailand. Whatthe modern lookWhen it comes to designs, most manufacturers agree - they offer a style reduced to the essentials, where certain motifs are repeated again and again and create a harmonious overall picture. The material - virgin wool repels dirt and is extremely durable. Even large manufacturers like Ikea couldn't resist the charm and simple elegance of Asian designs.
Andthe carpets a very simple color schemeThey can be staged in a variety of ways and are therefore considered all-round talents. In the photo series below you will find some examples of successful color and material combinations - let yourself be fascinated by the ethnic carpet!
