Oushak Rugs have burst upon the interior design scene, but what makes them different from other traditional style carpets?

Oushaks, or sometimes spelled Ushak, rugs have become a very popular choice within interior design for area rugs. But often, when clients are looking for this style carpet that they see in glossy home decor magazines they may not know what sets them apart from their colorful and more energetic cousins in the larger rug world. 

What are Oushak rugs?

Oushaks are hand-knotted rugs with origins in Western Turkey. Often Oushaks are typically in a softer palette of colors ranging from beige and grays and pastel tones. Oushaks often also feature a more open central area of beige and ivory tones when compared with the dense filigree and lattice type looks seen in Persian and other Turkish style area rugs. These factors, in combination with a looser chunkier knot often with Angora mixed in the wool, results in a casual elegance that is the signature of Oushak carpets. Oushaks also often feature an intentional fade or weathered look that is a perfect marriage with contemporary design trends that favor black, white and gray scale furnishings, elements, and surfaces. 

Where do Oushak rugs come from?

As mentioned earlier, Oushak rugs originate in the Western Turkish city of Uşak. This area has been a producer of fine carpets and area rugs, and many fine examples seen in Renaissance artworks have been attributed to the region. Oushaks enjoyed resurgences in the 17th and 19th Centuries, much like the they are again now in the 21st. We are proud to work with Anadol Rugs, who have an exclusive location patent for rugs still being produced in the city of Uşak. So much like true champagne coming from the namesake region in France, many of our Oushaks are still made the same way they have been for hundreds of years.

Are Oushak rugs soft?  

Oushak rugs often are produced as wool blends or totally in Angora fiber. This longer silky fiber from a type of goat is renowned for its sheen and supple feel.

When knotted in the signature larger knot used in Oushaks the result is an incredibly soft rug pile with a luminous shine. 

Oushaks are a wonderful choice for a transitional style rug that retains the elegance of a traditional rug with the casualness of a modern carpet. The neutral palettes suit contemporary style extremely well while possessing a timeless, confident look.