Tips for decorating with kilim

A rug is a rug is a rug — or is it? If you’ve been considering adding a touch of international flair to your home, a kilim rug may be exactly what you need. Though there are similarities to the Oriental style, kilim boasts its own distinctive look. It’s a thin, Turkish flat-woven rug, identical on both sides. Kilim comes in many sizes and countless variations of pattern, from geometric to breezy boho.

Not sure what to do with kilim? Consider the following ideas to freshen up your décor.

Rugs On the Ground

Let’s start with the most obvious, yes? A bold design and vibrant-colored kilim rug is the perfect centerpiece around which to build your room’s aesthetic. A kilim rug adds texture and contrast to the room, especially if you have hardwood floors. With neutral furnishing situated on and around a large kilim rug, draw out the rug’s colors by throwing in bold pillows and window dressings. To get the ideas flowing, check out Holland & Sherry’s kilim options.

Hanging Around

There’s often such artistry in kilim weaving that the thought of hiding yours underfoot is unthinkable. In this case, hanging it on the wall puts your kilim front and center for everyone to see and talk about. As with a floor covering, kilim as a wall tapestry serves as an anchor to the entire room. You could choose a single large rug to focus on or hang three similarly patterned floor runners side by side. You could even use a rug in place of a headboard above your bed. Stop by Esmaili Rugs & Antiques to choose from its selection of handmade antique rugs. 

Thrown About

Speaking of beds, thanks to the lightness of most kilim rugs, you could easily use one as throw at the foot of your bed. It’s also a beautiful addition to the back of a couch or arranged over a comfy chair. For a standout throw, visit Farzin Rugs’ for a huge selection of reproduction and antique kilim rugs, any of which you’d be proud to display in your home. 

Tables, and Windows and Pillows, Oh My!

 If your dining room table is a little too bare, use a kilim table runner to brighten up your next dinner party. You can also hang a kilim runner lengthways at the top of a window to act as a valance. Or maybe you aren’t ready to fully commit to kilim and just want to try it out. In that case, there are a variety of kilim-covered accessories, including pillows and ottomans, you can add to any room for a pop of color and design. Take some time to browse Talebi Rugs handpicked selection of kilim goods. 

From oversized rugs to floor mats, you can add a kilim to any room, whether as an anchor for the entire space or as accent pieces to flatter your existing décor. Regardless of your intent, kilim is sure to add a little Turkish delight to your home.