Where should I place a long runner?

These elongated carpets suit hallways, landings, wide corridors and long gallery spaces where they soften floorboards and dampen sound. They also function effectively in narrow rooms or alongside large pieces of furniture. Ensure you measure the walkway carefully, leaving a uniform border of exposed flooring around the perimeter of the carpet for a balanced visual effect.

How do I care for an old wool carpet?

Regular gentle vacuuming without a rotating brush roll prevents dust accumulation in the pile fibres. Professional cleaning should be undertaken periodically by specialists in antique textiles. Keep the carpet out of direct, intense sunlight to protect the natural dyes from fading over years of exposure.

How do I distinguish tribal from town carpets?

Tribal rugs usually display geometric, memory-driven motifs, asymmetrical irregularities and heavier, rustic wool. Town carpets like those from Heriz or Bidjar generally show precise floral curves, balanced medallions and finer knot densities. Looking at the back of the weave often reveals the structural regularity typical of settled urban workshops compared to nomadic or village production.

What is a Kelleh carpet?

A kelleh is a specific Persian format that sits between a standard rug and a full-sized room carpet, being notably longer than it is wide. Historically used in grand Persian homes, these pieces provide a substantial focal point for large rooms. They offer the decorative presence of a major carpet while retaining a proportional width that fits well in reception areas.