rug types

The most common types of Moroccan rugs in our collections

23. Sep. 2024

We take pride in sourcing our rugs from diverse weaving communities throughout Morocco. Each region has its own unique weaving techniques, raw materials, patterns, designs, and post-weaving processes. These local distinctions are what we love most, and we strive to curate our collections to showcase the variety of rug types we find appealing. While regional characteristics have become less distinct over time, many types of Moroccan rugs were originally linked to specific geographical areas and are often named after their places of origin. Here’s a brief overview of the unique traits and differences among the various types of Moroccan rugs in our collection.

Beni Ourains: The most recognizable types of Moroccan rugs

Beni Ourains are arguably the most famous and sought-after types of Moroccan rugs globally. These rugs are distinguished by their shaggy texture and traditional geometric designs crafted on a natural ivory wool base. Their minimalist aesthetic and soft woolly surface make them a perfect fit for virtually any interior style. Beni Ourains captured the attention of the early Bauhaus movement and have since become a staple in modern interior design around the world.

Colourful, bohemian Azilals

Azilal rugs, originating from the Azilal province, are colourful medium-pile creations that feature looser knotting compared to Beni Ourains. These rugs are adorned with decorative diamond patterns symbolizing female fertility, alongside irregular and often abstract line designs. Crafted with cotton or wool yarn on a natural wool base, Azilal rugs sometimes showcase vivid base colours. Azilals are ideal for those who like to be surrounded by cute, boho objects and are not afraid of the neon colours that are often a feature of this type of Moroccan rug.

Low-pile Boujads with a felted texture

Hailing from around the city of Boujad, Boujad rugs are low-pile pieces known for their unique, "cloudy" felted texture and sparse knotting. Vintage Boujads often display intricate symmetrical patterns made from plant-dyed wool in warm earth tones, while contemporary versions are marked by bold colours, spontaneous designs, and rich detailing. Typically, Boujads feature fringes at only one end.

Boucherouites: The pioneers of sustainable home textiles

Boucherouite rugs are trailblazers in sustainable home textiles, crafted since the 1960s using upcycled textiles and yarn scraps. Without the constraints of age-old weaving traditions, these rugs are a free-spirited fusion of vibrant colours and diverse materials, overflowing with personality. Notably durable, Boucherouites are well-suited for high-traffic areas such as kitchens and children's rooms.

Flatwoven Kilims

Although our selection of Kilim rugs is somewhat limited, we always strive to offer beautiful vintage and contemporary pieces. Kilims are flatwoven rugs, characterized by either simple or intricately detailed geometric patterns. Unlike kilims from other cultures, many of our pieces are single-sided. We particularly admire unique, bright colour combinations and two-tone pieces that create a blending effect from afar. Our newest weaving partners from the Siroua region craft stunning, relatively thick Kilim rugs that are perfect under dining tables due to their easy maintenance.

Beni Mrirt Rugs, the finest

Beni Mrirt rugs are among the highest quality entries in our collections, and as such, they belong to a higher price category. Renowned for their exceptionally soft, shiny wool surfaces, these rugs benefit from premium wool, dense knotting, and a special washing process post-weaving. Produced in the Middle Atlas region, primarily around Khenifra, we collaborate with small communities of women to ensure personalized production while avoiding mass-scale manufacturing.

We’d like to invite you to explore our shop where you'll find a diverse array of Moroccan rugs to suit every taste and style. Take your time to browse through our extensive collection and examine the pictures, including close-ups and interior pics of our rugs in situ. Whether you’re looking for a statement piece or a subtle complement to your décor, we’re confident you’ll find the perfect rug that speaks to your preferences. And if you fail to find „the one”, feel free to contact us, and we will discuss the steps of custom manufacturing. Happy rug hunting!

cleaning

Cleaning and care guide for your hand-knotted wool rug

If you tempted to purchase a plush, Moroccan wool rug, but are hesitant due to cleaning concerns, you’ve come to the right place. Hand-knotted wool rugs can be beautiful additions to your home and are extremely durable. In their original tribal environments, they serve multiple generations. But what’s the secret to maintaining these rugs’ beauty over the long term? This article aims to show you just that.

Below, we’ve collected a bundle of tips and tricks on how to care for your hand-knotted wool rug, what to expect throughout its life cycle, and what you can do to ensure that it remains eye-catching for years to come. We hope by the end, you’ll feel that maintaining Moroccan rugs is not as daunting as you thought.

portrait

Meet the makers: Saadia and Aicha

Living in a picturesque village nestled in Morocco’s majestic High Atlas Mountains, Saadia and Aicha are two talented young weavers who transform raw wool into beautiful rugs, while also bringing meaningful changes to their own lives and the lives of those around them. Bonded by friendship and a shared passion for weaving, these remarkable women have embraced the art form that has been a vital part of their culture for generations and we are lucky enough to bring both their gorgeous rugs and their stories directly to you.

about

From Berber to Abra, a journey of transformation

Many of you have been following our work for quite some time now and you may be surprised by the recent change of our brand name from Berber Budapest to Abra. Now we would like to take a moment to explain the reasons behind the change and to share with you the process that has eventually led us to the rebranding.