Mine's a Moroccan: Artisan Rugs for a Tribal Touch
Craftmanship, colour, texture and a story in every stitch and loop – what's not to love about tribal Moroccan rugs?
Janet Dunn
14 January 2017
Houzz Australia Contributor. Former NZ House&Garden writer and stylist, and avid interior design enthusiast. Ex-restaurateur and caterer, with a Professional Certificate in Gastronomy, University of Adelaide.
Houzz Australia Contributor. Former NZ House&Garden writer and stylist, and avid... More
Moroccan rugs have won an army of admirers all over the world, none more so than pieces from the looms of the many rug-making artisans in the rural regions of Morocco. Whether authentic hand-woven vintage works of art or modern versions using centuries-old weaving techniques, these rugs are rich and luxurious enhancements for practically every decor style. Let these beautiful examples inspire you to weave a touch of Moroccan magic into your home.
Tribal trends
A trend towards an eclectic and layered approach to decor is in the wind for the coming year – and hopefully well beyond. Dubbed Desert Wanderer, it embodies a drift towards the handmade and imperfect, and suggests growing attention to traditional crafts from old cultures.
The Moroccan rug spectrum is a huge and glorious tapestry of many different styles, roughly separated into urban and rural types. Rustic rugs woven by traditional rural tribes are emerging as hands-down favourites for modern homes.
A trend towards an eclectic and layered approach to decor is in the wind for the coming year – and hopefully well beyond. Dubbed Desert Wanderer, it embodies a drift towards the handmade and imperfect, and suggests growing attention to traditional crafts from old cultures.
The Moroccan rug spectrum is a huge and glorious tapestry of many different styles, roughly separated into urban and rural types. Rustic rugs woven by traditional rural tribes are emerging as hands-down favourites for modern homes.
The history and stories contained in tribal rugs are as complex as their weaves and patterns. Knowing a little about their background will immeasurably enhance enjoyment of their beauty. To set you on the road to Morocco, here are some terms you may see as you hunt down that perfect rug.
See more plant-filled spaces
See more plant-filled spaces
Berber
Berbers, also known as the Imazighen, are indigenous people living in tribal communities scattered over North Africa. Weaving has a long history among the Imazighen and many distinctive rug forms have emerged from their complex culture.
The term ‘Berber’ appeared in the west in the ’60s and ’70s, referring to an oatmealy loop pile carpeting. This wall-to-wall floor covering referenced the distinctive knot form and natural multi-coloured flecks found in Berber rugs made in Morocco. Nowadays, the word is more correctly associated with hand-woven rugs crafted by tribal Amazigh (the singular of Imazighen) groups.
Berbers, also known as the Imazighen, are indigenous people living in tribal communities scattered over North Africa. Weaving has a long history among the Imazighen and many distinctive rug forms have emerged from their complex culture.
The term ‘Berber’ appeared in the west in the ’60s and ’70s, referring to an oatmealy loop pile carpeting. This wall-to-wall floor covering referenced the distinctive knot form and natural multi-coloured flecks found in Berber rugs made in Morocco. Nowadays, the word is more correctly associated with hand-woven rugs crafted by tribal Amazigh (the singular of Imazighen) groups.
Beni Ourain
The Beni Ourain are a confederation of nomadic Amazigh tribes from the Atlas Mountains of Morocco. Their rugs are made from the superior quality curly wool from their sheep and goat herds, mostly left undyed. One of the most recognisable and sought-after rugs today, the iconic pattern consists of irregular black or brown linked diamonds and abstract symbols on a thick-pile white or ivory background.
Original Beni Ourains were used as blankets, bedspreads and cloaks for warmth, the loose soft structure designed to conform to the body. They are traditionally woven by women and are infused with elements of the life, aspirations and history of the weavers. Recently, artisan groups have come together to create marketing systems ensuring fair return for their skilled and time-consuming work. One such group is Anou, which enables Beni Ourain artisans to sell directly on an online marketplace.
The Beni Ourain are a confederation of nomadic Amazigh tribes from the Atlas Mountains of Morocco. Their rugs are made from the superior quality curly wool from their sheep and goat herds, mostly left undyed. One of the most recognisable and sought-after rugs today, the iconic pattern consists of irregular black or brown linked diamonds and abstract symbols on a thick-pile white or ivory background.
Original Beni Ourains were used as blankets, bedspreads and cloaks for warmth, the loose soft structure designed to conform to the body. They are traditionally woven by women and are infused with elements of the life, aspirations and history of the weavers. Recently, artisan groups have come together to create marketing systems ensuring fair return for their skilled and time-consuming work. One such group is Anou, which enables Beni Ourain artisans to sell directly on an online marketplace.
Beni Ourain rugs have surpassed transient trends to become design classics. We can thank mid-century modern designers for opening Western eyes to their beauty. Le Corbusier, Alvar Aalto, Marcel Breuer, Charles and Ray Eames fell in love with them and Frank Lloyd Wright’s famous Fallingwater has Beni Ourain rugs in several rooms. The rich textures, elegant colours and idiosyncrasies highlighted the sleek modernist interiors of the day, and continue to do so.
Wouldn’t it be lovely to own an original pre-1950s Beni Ourain? They are sadly becoming rare and expensive. Older rugs are smallish as they had to be carried during nomadic movements – a rug larger than about three metres square purporting to be vintage or antique is probably not. Be wary if a fringe has been sewn on or if the reverse knotting is regular and perfect. Before investing in what you believe to be an old Beni Ourain, get professional advice and valuation.
Beni Ourain women are still turning out gorgeous rugs in this style and they can be custom-woven to order. Buy through a reputable dealer and ensure it’s wool, to get that luxurious look and silky feel that is the joy of Beni Ourains.
Beni Ourain women are still turning out gorgeous rugs in this style and they can be custom-woven to order. Buy through a reputable dealer and ensure it’s wool, to get that luxurious look and silky feel that is the joy of Beni Ourains.
Why choose a Beni Ourain?
Because you want a rug with a story. Because you love to go barefoot around the house and sit on the floor on big squashy cushions. Because you like a rug not overloaded with colour and pattern, that makes a strong statement in a smooth-textured, streamlined modern space. Because you are prepared to invest in a rug that will last a lifetime.
Neutral shades and how to work with them
Because you want a rug with a story. Because you love to go barefoot around the house and sit on the floor on big squashy cushions. Because you like a rug not overloaded with colour and pattern, that makes a strong statement in a smooth-textured, streamlined modern space. Because you are prepared to invest in a rug that will last a lifetime.
Neutral shades and how to work with them
Boucherouite
The 1960s saw a shift in Berber rug making. Tribal cultures and lifestyles were changing, wool supplies were dwindling, while demand for Moroccan pieces remained high. In a superb example of adaptability and resourcefulness, some Amazigh women began hand-making rugs using found fibres, cotton and fabric scraps from Moroccan garment factories, including nylon, lurex and even plastic – upcycling at its best. The name for this new style, Boucherouite, is from the Arabic bu sherwit meaning a scrap torn from a garment.
The 1960s saw a shift in Berber rug making. Tribal cultures and lifestyles were changing, wool supplies were dwindling, while demand for Moroccan pieces remained high. In a superb example of adaptability and resourcefulness, some Amazigh women began hand-making rugs using found fibres, cotton and fabric scraps from Moroccan garment factories, including nylon, lurex and even plastic – upcycling at its best. The name for this new style, Boucherouite, is from the Arabic bu sherwit meaning a scrap torn from a garment.
Boucherouite rugs are vivid and playful, each one unique. Sometimes called Beni Ourain’s lively little sister, they are rag rugs on steroids. The weaving techniques are traditional, but the results are free-wheeling and spontaneous, with zigzags and geometric shapes thrown together at the weaver’s whim. With no earth tones, like the more sober Beni Ourains, some find them garish. Others adore them for their honesty and dynamism – in a light-filled white room, they positively glow. They are hard-wearing and some even claim to be machine-washable.
Why choose a Boucherouite?
Because these rugs tell the story of a changing culture. Because you have a bohemian soul and revel in clashing colours, and because you love the idea of rubbish being recycled and becoming an object of beauty and character. Because your home is a place where fun takes precedence over elegance.
Because these rugs tell the story of a changing culture. Because you have a bohemian soul and revel in clashing colours, and because you love the idea of rubbish being recycled and becoming an object of beauty and character. Because your home is a place where fun takes precedence over elegance.
Azilal
These are woven in the Azilal province in the High Atlas mountains of Morocco. They combine the freestyle zaniness of Boucherouites and the restrained dark grid of Beni Ourains, often with a natural wool background throwing bright colours, motifs and diamond lozenge shapes into relief. Natural dyes from saffron, henna, indigo, wild mint and pomegranates lend these rugs their vibrancy. They display the intuitive artistry that permeates tribal Moroccan rugs and with their modern aesthetic, make superb wall art.
These are woven in the Azilal province in the High Atlas mountains of Morocco. They combine the freestyle zaniness of Boucherouites and the restrained dark grid of Beni Ourains, often with a natural wool background throwing bright colours, motifs and diamond lozenge shapes into relief. Natural dyes from saffron, henna, indigo, wild mint and pomegranates lend these rugs their vibrancy. They display the intuitive artistry that permeates tribal Moroccan rugs and with their modern aesthetic, make superb wall art.
Why choose an Azilal?
Because you love pure wool underfoot. Because, although you love colour, you’re not quite sure about a full-on Boucherouite in all its riotous glory. Because your hard industrial decor could do with something soft and less serious. Because the quirky, wonky shapes remind you of kids’ crayon art and make you smile.
Because you love pure wool underfoot. Because, although you love colour, you’re not quite sure about a full-on Boucherouite in all its riotous glory. Because your hard industrial decor could do with something soft and less serious. Because the quirky, wonky shapes remind you of kids’ crayon art and make you smile.
Tuareg
The Tuareg are a semi-nomadic tribal ethnic confederation that shares a language with Amazigh tribes in Morocco. Not strictly Moroccan, they are Saharan desert dwellers inhabiting a vast area surrounding Morocco. Known as ‘the blue people’ because the indigo dye used in their clothing colours their skin, theirs is a matriarchal culture where men, not women, wear the veil from the age of 25.
The Tuareg are a semi-nomadic tribal ethnic confederation that shares a language with Amazigh tribes in Morocco. Not strictly Moroccan, they are Saharan desert dwellers inhabiting a vast area surrounding Morocco. Known as ‘the blue people’ because the indigo dye used in their clothing colours their skin, theirs is a matriarchal culture where men, not women, wear the veil from the age of 25.
Tuareg rugs and mats are one of the most distinctive and interesting in the region. Born in the harsh Saharan climate and used as floor coverings in tents, they are made from camel hair, palm fibre, reeds and leather, sometimes mixed with wool and cotton. The beauty of these rugs is their mastery of leatherwork, their ruggedness and how their rich earth tones develop a warm mellow patina with time and wear.
Why choose a Tuareg?
Because you were born under a wandering star, adore leathery, robust natural textures and want a show-stopping but practical rug that is happy indoors or out and will grow old gracefully. Because you don’t do soft pastels and tiny florals, but like to introduce a gutsy masculine touch.
Because you were born under a wandering star, adore leathery, robust natural textures and want a show-stopping but practical rug that is happy indoors or out and will grow old gracefully. Because you don’t do soft pastels and tiny florals, but like to introduce a gutsy masculine touch.
Kilim
Kilim isn’t the name of a tribal group, but a weaving technique. These rugs emanate from a vast geographic area and use a tight flat-weave method that sharpens and enhances the design. Many Amazigh tribes produce kilim items, such as blankets and grain bags, that are being used in modern homes as rugs. Styles and symbols differ widely, from intricate to more orderly, like this boldly striped piece.
Read more about kilim rugs
Kilim isn’t the name of a tribal group, but a weaving technique. These rugs emanate from a vast geographic area and use a tight flat-weave method that sharpens and enhances the design. Many Amazigh tribes produce kilim items, such as blankets and grain bags, that are being used in modern homes as rugs. Styles and symbols differ widely, from intricate to more orderly, like this boldly striped piece.
Read more about kilim rugs
Why choose a kilim?
Because you are a minimalist, but need one glorious patterned piece to pep up a room. Because you can’t be bothered with dirt-trapping pile rugs and like to give a rug an occasional shake out. Because you want a lightweight rug that can be moved to other rooms at a whim. Because there’s a kilim for every budget.
Because you are a minimalist, but need one glorious patterned piece to pep up a room. Because you can’t be bothered with dirt-trapping pile rugs and like to give a rug an occasional shake out. Because you want a lightweight rug that can be moved to other rooms at a whim. Because there’s a kilim for every budget.
Berber Modern
Today, tribal weavers of Berber rugs have one foot in their ancient cultures and one in the 21st century. While still creating rugs telling their old stories, new more contemporary designs on a larger scale that suit modern homes are coming from their looms. The authenticity of the industry is under some threat from knock-offs made in China and India – these are budget-friendly, but lack the romance of the real thing.
TELL US
Would you love one of these rugs in your home? If you already have one, why not tell us about it in the Comments section?
MORE
Read more about different decorating styles
Today, tribal weavers of Berber rugs have one foot in their ancient cultures and one in the 21st century. While still creating rugs telling their old stories, new more contemporary designs on a larger scale that suit modern homes are coming from their looms. The authenticity of the industry is under some threat from knock-offs made in China and India – these are budget-friendly, but lack the romance of the real thing.
TELL US
Would you love one of these rugs in your home? If you already have one, why not tell us about it in the Comments section?
MORE
Read more about different decorating styles
Related Stories
Interior Design
The Golden Rules of Proportion: Decor Laws You Need to Know
An interior designer reveals the essential rules for achieving a perfectly balanced interior
Full Story
Most Popular
An Interior Designer's Guide to Arranging Cushions
By Anne Ellard
Get to grips with your ever-growing pile of cushions with these professional tips for choosing and arranging cushions in your home
Full Story
Decorating
The Power of Negative Space in Interior Design
By Janet Dunn
A design element that's not even there can forever change how you view your home
Full Story
For Pros
Trade Shows: Why They're Important Events You Don't Want to Miss
From networking to insights into new and emerging trends, here's why trade shows should be a firm 'yes' in your calendar
Full Story
Houzz Tours
Queensland Houzz: A Cute Cottage Awash With Colour and Pattern
Bold colour, quirky prints and an abundance of art transformed this 1920s cottage into an inviting and relaxing gem
Full Story
Project Of The Week
Before & After: A Cheap & Cheerful Makeover of a 1980s Caravan
Armed with an AU$1500 budget, a Melbourne couple rolled up their sleeves and transformed a caravan in just three months
Full Story
Most Popular
Ask the Experts: What Goes With Tan Leather?
Embrace this versatile material, colour and texture with inspirational ideas from designers in the know
Full Story
Most Popular
Masonry Magic: 15 Ways to Trick Out Your Exposed Brick Wall
Do you find exposed brick walls cold? Add contemporary warmth and interest with these 15 transformative ideas
Full Story
Projects Born on Houzz
Before & After: From Dump Zone to New 'Welcome Home' Living Area
Home office, yoga zone, dumping ground... this front room was having a serious identity crisis – but look at it now!
Full Story
Picture Perfect
30 Christmas Schemes to Inspire and Delight
Our coffee-break escape offers you five minutes' worth of images to inspire and delight. Jump right in...
Full Story
We are one of the best online retailers of handmade Moroccan rugs in Sydney Australia. Purchase our wonderful handmade rugs at lowest price and enjoy free shipping service all across Australia.We provide our clients a wide variety of Beni Ourain, Azilal, Glaoui, Taznakht, Yacoub, Zemmour rugs and other handmade Moroccan homewares.
Moroccan rugs have a special charm and definitely add warmth and character to any space. We carry some of the most unique Moroccan rugs from Beni Ourain ro Boucherouite rugs
https://bohoconvention.com