How do I measure for a corridor carpet?

Measure the clear floor space of the hallway while leaving an even margin of exposed floorboards or stone around the perimeter. Account for door clearances so that doors swing freely over the pile thickness. Keep in mind that older hand-knotted runners can vary slightly in width from one end to the other due to handloom construction.

Where should I place a runner in the home?

Runners suit high-traffic thoroughfares like main hallways, landing passages, and entrance foyers where linear floor coverings soften footfall. They also serve effectively alongside long gallery walls or beside large bedroom furniture. Ensure the placement allows the geometric borders to be viewed without obstruction from furniture placement.

How do I care for an old wool runner?

Use a quality rug underlay to prevent slippage and reduce friction between the cotton foundation and hard flooring. Regular gentle vacuuming without a rotating power brush helps remove grit from the base of the pile. Professional specialist cleaning is recommended for wool and natural dye textiles when deeper maintenance is required.

How do I tell regional styles apart?

Caucasian and tribal pieces typically display sharp, bold geometric motifs with strong primary colours and high contrast. Persian workshop runners from places like Heriz or Hamadan often feature more structured central medallions and intricate floral or Herati formatting. Turkish Ushak and Oushak examples tend to exhibit softer, more open field patterns with muted terracotta and blue tones.