How do I style a medallion rug?

Centre the rug in the room so the central motif remains visible rather than hiding underneath heavy furniture. Allow the dominant colours in the medallion to guide your choice of surrounding soft furnishings and wall paint. Keep surrounding patterns minimal to let the traditional geometry and floral drawing of the central field hold visual priority. These pieces work effectively on both bare timber floors and neutral fitted carpets.

Where should I place a runner rug?

Place runners in high-traffic transition areas such as long hallways, entryways, or alongside a bed in a bedroom. Ensure you measure the corridor width properly to leave an even border of exposed floor on either side. Secure the runner with a suitable anti-slip underlay to prevent shifting and to protect the older foundation fibres from premature wear against hard flooring.

How do I care for an antique rug?

Vacuum the rug gently on a low suction setting without using a rotating beater bar that might catch the hand-knotted pile. Rotate the piece every six months to ensure even exposure to foot traffic and sunlight. Address accidental spills immediately by blotting with a clean white cloth rather than rubbing. Professional cleaning is recommended periodically to maintain the integrity of the wool and cotton fibres.

How do I identify regional rug styles?

Examine the specific drawing style of the central medallion, corner spandrels, and border motifs to trace the origin. Bold geometric lines often point toward Caucasian or tribal Persian workshops, while curved floral sprays suggest town centres like Kashan or Ishfahan. Note the materials and palette choices, as certain regions historically favoured specific natural dyes and structural densities. Comparing the knot count on the reverse side also helps distinguish fine workshop pieces from coarser village weaves.