Summer 2025 Rug Insider Magazine

RUGS AND CARPETS FOR THE DESIGN PROFESSIONAL

LINEAR SATISFACTION

At a Crossroads TARIFFS & THE RUG INDUSTRY

SUMMER 2025 - VOLUME XXIX - ISSUE 1 FRONT LINES + Rug & Kilim Celebrates 45 Years InSTYLE | HOT Summer Markets Weaving Better Lives COVER Connect NY Preview InANTIQUES | Kilims What’s LOOMING

On The Cover | Rug & Kilim

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Insider NEWS 73 WHAT’S LOOMING Samad welcomes a new member to the “family”, Concord Imports & Service Buddy form a strategic

partnership; summer markets overview, and more.

Photo credit: Samad

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SUMMER 2025 – VOLUME XXIX – ISSUE 1 MILESTONES RUG INSIDER Magazine is a quarterly publication which covers the rug and carpet industry with a focus on quality, design, and an eye toward the future.

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PUBLISHER EDITORIAL DIRECTOR ONLINE/PRINT ADVERTISING Peter Woodaman peter@ruginsider.com C: 603 387 6477 V: 603 279 4938 DESIGNER Cheryl Sivewright cheryl@ruginsider.com CONTRIBUTING EDITORS Cecile Corral cecile@cecilepr.com Rodney Hakim rodney@pgny.com Carol Milano

ON THE COVER

Brian K. Robins Jennifer Samad

RUG & KILIM Film director Ruben Fleischer’s New Jersey Mansion—a 1909 historic home designed by Studio DB—features an oversized custom flatweave from Rug & Kilim’s Scandinavian rug collection. The piece underscores the formal entry hall with graphic blues in minimalist geometric patterns inspired by Swedish Modernist designs, and also introduces a new, finer quality of flatweave from the collection. Photo by Matthew Williams rugandkilim.com

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InDEPTH 27 AT A CROSSROADS

InFOCUS 41 LINEAR SATISFACTION Walk a fine line with us this

As the soft flooring industry confronts this new era of trade challenges, contributing editor Cecile Corral goes deep on the tariff issue for the US area rug market.

summer as we open a portfolio of linear beauty in all styles and constructions. A superb example is the Persis Songline runner 2, from the Dreamtime Chants Collection, from Zollanvari. zollanvari.com

Insider’s View 21 PUBLISHER’S STATEMENT Summer starts the 29th year of publication for RUG INSIDER proudly serving the area rug industry. InDEPTH 33 RUG & KILIM CELEBRATES 45 YEARS Contributing editor Rodney Hakim talks with industry vet- eran Josh Nazmiyal who shares the company’s story. 49 WEAVING BETTER LIVES Contributing editor Carol Milano profiles the work of Goodweave as it fights to end child and forced labor. Inside MARKETS Summer’s Las Vegas Market at-a-glance. 54 LAS VEGAS MARKET

58 COVER CONNECT NY COVER Connect host COVER magazine celebrates its 20th anniversary as the show returns for the New York edition. InSTYLE 55 Find the latest summer intros from your favorite brands with our InSTYLE Markets preview. InANTIQUES Contributing editor Rodney Hakim delivers a primer on Kilims—traditional flat-woven rugs laden with rich history. Index 78 Our advertisers help support the magazine. Without bias, we ask you to consider purchasing from the fine companies in our summer issue. 68 KILIM RUGS

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INSIDER’S VIEW | FROM THE PUBLISHER

Summer’s Hottest Topic Our summer issue drops as the U.S. is set to impose tariffs around the globe. The impact of tariffs is adding to anxiety levels and is certainly a huge topic of conversation throughout the area rug industry. Contributing editor Cecile Corral takes a timely look into tariffs speaking with several industry leaders as well as major national chains in her report, At a Crossroads , starting on page 27. RI Contributing editor Rodney Hakim, had the opportunity to spend some time with longtime industry veteran and forward-thinking rug innovator Josh Nazmiyal of Rug & Kilim , Long Island City, NY to catch up on all the latest from their team. See Rug & Kilim Celebrates 45 Years on page 33. Warp and Weft’s “Via” is our lede rug image for summer’s InFOCUS feature , Lin- ear Satisfaction on page 41. It’s from their Crossroads Collection and it is stun- ning. We are showcasing line designs in this issue in a big way. I want to congratulate my friend Michael Mandapati and Warp & Weft on their 25th Anniversary and wish them continued success. In a continuing series of articles, contributing editor Carol Milano, who targets social causes and environmental issues, takes an in-depth dive into the non-profit organization Goodweave starting on page 49. Readers will remember Carol’s first story on LabelSTEP in our Fall 2024 issue. With the summer markets heating up, Atlanta July 15-21 and Las Vegas July 27- 31, make sure you peruse our InSTYLE market gallery to see some of the latest designs that will be on display this summer.

Sleek & Luxurious The sleek, geometric Prague design from Exquisite Rugs is hand-knotted in New Zealand Wool. See the company’s latest intros at Las Vegas Market, B-200 July 27-31. See page 54 for more

market coverage. exquisiterugs.com lasvegasmarket.com

Can’t get enough trade shows? Don’t miss Cover Connect NY, September 13-15. Now in its fifth year, CCNY is shaping up as a great event. Our coverage with exhibitor roster starts on page 58. Lastly, we trust that you are enjoying RUG INSIDER From machine made to handmade, new to antique— we cover it all. With other magazines and trade organ- izations like ORIA going by the wayside, we continue to carry the torch as the voice of the area rug industry. Follow us in print, digital, and on rug- insider.com to stay informed. Your advertising dollars and subscription support allow us to deliver the best trade magazine for the area rug industry. See you at the summer markets!

Peter Woodaman Publisher

peter@ruginsider.com www.ruginsider.com Follow us @ruginsider

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InDEPTH | AT A CROSSROADS

At a Crossroads HOW TARIFFS ARE RESHAPING THE U.S. AREA RUG INDUSTRY

A s the U.S. area rug industry nav- igates a shifting global trade landscape, tariffs have emerged as a powerful dichotomy—at once a dis- ruptive force and a catalyst for reinven- tion. Manufacturers, suppliers, and retailers alike are recalibrating sourcing, pricing, and distribution strategies to adapt and stay flexible, all while con- tending with the broader headwinds of inflation, volatile shipping logistics, and persistent economic uncertainty. What began as anxiety over rising costs and compressed margins has evolved into a more layered reality. Industry leaders now describe a marketplace in flux, defined as much by strategic adaptation and new opportunity as by constraint. Domestic producers are capitalizing on renewed interest in U.S.- made goods, while importers are navi- gating tariff complexity with sharpened agility—positioning the area rug sector at a consequential crossroads. Consumers’ Price Sensitivity and Retail Realities Recent insights from leading industry research group Circana (formerly NPD

From domestic production to global diversi  cation, the soft  ooring industry is confronting a new era of trade challenges.

Group) sharpen the lens on the con- sumer side. Marshal Cohen , Chief Retail Advisor, notes that consumers typically tolerate a 10-percent to 12- percent price increase without signifi- cant pushback. “Retailers will likely promote their way out of tariff-related price pressures,” Cohen says, citing early examples of “no tariff pricing” campaigns designed to capture con- sumer attention and loyalty amid uncertainty. However, the tariff impacts ripple more intensely through manufacturers, sup- pliers, and logistics providers than at the retail shelf. Cohen explains that the supply chain is already adjusting — with some manufacturers pulling for- ward orders, holding inventory to wait out tariff shifts, and retailers seeking “must-have pricing” from wholesalers to preserve margins amid rising costs. This will likely result in fewer promo- tions, forcing consumers to prioritize purchases and potentially trade down or switch brands. Larger retailers with robust inventories appear poised to capitalize on these shifts. “The pandemic showed us how

BY CECILE CORRAL CONTRIBUTING EDITOR

“ Tariffs create volatility, but they also drive clients to partners who offer stability and solutions, not just products. “ ALI MCMURTER, CREATIVE MATTERS

Ali McMurter, Managing Partner Creative Matters, Photo: Creative Matters

premium freight space can be,” Cohen observes, underscoring the value of early broker collaboration and supplier credit negotiations. “In this environ- ment, nimbleness and scenario plan- ning are key.”

to Maples Rugs, he cites. “We can step in fast and fill gaps or launch new pro- grams, which is increasingly important in this volatile environment.” Natco Home echoes this optimism. President Michael Litner describes plans to expand the company’s domes- tic productions of woven rugs in Maine and tufted rugs in Georgia, including new loom installations to meet growing demand. Still, there are challenges: “Retailers are conservative now, with some canceling or pushing out orders, sharing tariff burdens with suppliers, or cutting programs reliant on China.” Despite these headwinds, he sees strong potential for brands focused on USA-made products. The Handmade Rug Sector Faces Unique Challenges Not all segments share the same out- look. Handmade rug importers like Creative Touch , which sources prima- rily from India and Turkey, face more acute pressures. Founder Baki Ildiz recounts the “ripple effect” of recipro- cal tariffs in those countries, making quote requests difficult to finalize and squeezing already thin margins. “We absorbed tariff costs [on prior shipments because contracts were fixed],” Ildiz explains to Rug Insider. “Going forward, we had to add clauses for tariff volatility to protect our busi- ness.” Since handmade rugs cannot be domestically produced at scale, tariffs effectively raise consumer prices, risk- ing a shift away from middle-income

buyers. Ildiz fears this will push the market toward mass-produced, lower- quality rugs, threatening the craftsman- ship and ethical values that define the handmade category. Despite these challenges, Creative Touch remains committed to quality and sustainability. “We will not sacrifice craftsmanship or our mission,” Ildiz says. Agility and Diversification Companies with diversified global footprints report that tariffs, while difficult, validate their strategic choices. Creative Matters , a Canadian com- pany with production across Nepal, Thailand, India, and the U.S., has lever- aged its multi-country sourcing and internal logistics to shield clients from the worst tariff impacts. Managing Partner Ali McMurter describes a “futureproof” model built on diversification and tight control of design, production, and shipping. “Tariffs create volatility, but they also drive clients to partners who offer sta- bility and solutions, not just products,” she notes. The company’s ability to pivot production and reallocate orders across regions has become a competi- tive advantage. This approach aligns with broader mar- ket demands. Retailers increasingly seek suppliers that can manage risk, control lead times, and preserve margins amid an uncertain geopolitical landscape. “Cross-border thinking” and vertically integrated models are emerging as industry best practices.

Domestic Manufacturing: A New Growth Frontier

For some industry players, tariffs present a rare opportunity to spotlight the value and renewed relevance of domestic manufacturing. Wade Maples , co- owner of Maples Rugs , a family-run domestic manufacturer, views tariffs as a potential “leveling force” in a market long dominated by imports. Tariffs have forced a new conversation about the value of American-made rugs — and that conversation is just getting started,” he said to RUG INSIDER . “Our hope is that tariffs encourage retailers to take a fresh look at Ameri- can suppliers—not just in terms of logistics, but quality, lead times, and flexibility.” Early signals are promising, he adds, with retailers increasingly exploring USA-made programs as a hedge against overseas sourcing risks. Maples points to an A/B test with Amazon, where click-through rates on products labeled “Made in the USA” surged—a clear sign that consumers value domestically produced goods. “Retailers are not just hedging; they are actively rebalancing their assortments to be less import-dependent,” he notes. The ability to move quickly on design and production is a distinct advantage

InDEPTH | AT A CROSSROADS

Retailers Grapple with Margin Pressures and Inventory Shifts

• Kohl’s CFO Jill Timm pointed to sourcing diversification since 2017 as a buffer against tariff pressures. The company offsets higher costs by adjusting order mix and inventory levels. • Burlington Stores detailed a strategic “remix” of margin plans, including opportunistic purchases of pre-tariff merchandise and adjustments to reserve inventory, which comprised nearly half of total stock as of May. • Macy’s disclosed order cancellations and delays where tariffs bite hardest, adopting a “surgical” approach to price adjustments that includes renegotiations and vendor discounts.

• Walmart’s CEO Doug McMillon acknowledged the inevitability of higher prices due to tariffs but stressed efforts to minimize con- sumer impact through selective cost spreading across categories. • Target CEO Brian Cornell described a “high difficulty level” in managing tariff-driven cost increases, stressing that price increases remain a last resort. • Ross Stores , heavily reliant on China imports, reported merchan- dise margin declines tied to ocean freight and tariffs, with CEO Jim Conroy anticipating broad-based inflationary pressures in retail pricing.

Tariff pressures are surfacing clearly in retailers’ financial disclosures and forward-looking statements. Major national chains that carry area rugs, like TJX Companies, Kohl’s, Burlington Stores, Macy’s, Walmart, Target, and Ross Stores, all referenced tariffs in their recent quarterly reports, revealing a landscape of cautious and collaborative adaptation. • TJX CFO John Klinger highlighted the company’s global vendor network and reassured investors that merchan- dise availability remains solid despite China sourcing disruptions. CEO Ernie Herrman emphasized the flexibility to shift assortments and vendors as needed to avoid empty shelves.

STRATEGIC REMIX OF MARGIN PLANS

SOURCING DIVERSIFICATION AS A BUFFER

FLEXIBILITY WITH ITS GLOBAL VENDOR NETWORK

SELECTIVE COST SPREADING ACROSS CATEGORIES

PRICE INCREASES REMAIN A LAST RESORT

SURGICAL APPROACH TO PRICE ADJUSTMENTS

InDEPTH | AT A CROSSROADS

ahead,” she says, emphasizing agility in a volatile market. Suppliers Absorbing Costs and Navigating Customer Relationships Supplier responses reveal the tension between absorbing tariff costs and maintaining customer relationships. Kalaty Rugs , for example, chose to absorb a recent 10-percent tariff increase to shield customers from immediate price hikes during a 90-day tariff hold. Suppliers Absorbing Costs and Navigating Customer Relationships

ahead,” she says, emphasizing agility in a volatile market. Natco Home’s Litner cites a mixed response to its strategies from its retail partners, with some sharing tariffs with suppliers and others canceling or delaying orders, reflecting a more cau- tious buying environment.

model, leading to store closures while searching for potential buyers. This closure symbolizes the difficult terrain many retailers face, where margin pressures and supply chain volatility require new operating models. While tariffs have undeniably intro- duced complexity and cost pressures, they have also accelerated industry trends toward domestic production, supply chain diversification, and oper- ational agility. For the U.S. area rug market, this moment presents an opportunity albeit with challenges: adapt with nimbleness, innovation, and strategic foresight to emerging This closure symbolizes the difficult terrain many retailers face, where margin pressures and supply chain volatility require new operating models. While tariffs have undeniably intro- duced complexity and cost pressures, they have also accelerated industry trends toward domestic production, supply chain diversification, and oper- ational agility. For the U.S. area rug market, this moment presents an opportunity albeit with challenges: adapt with nimbleness, innovation, and strategic foresight to emerging model, leading to store closures while searching for potential buyers.

Supplier responses reveal the tension between absorbing tariff costs and maintaining customer relationships. Kalaty Rugs , for example, chose to absorb a recent 10-percent tariff increase to shield customers from immediate price hikes during a 90-day tariff hold. Wendy Reiss , VP of Sales and National Accounts at KAS Rugs , explained to RUG INSIDER the company’s decision to drop three collections sourced from China amid tariff uncertainty. Kas is holding prices steady on current inven- tory to encourage retailer stocking while exploring alternative sourcing options. “We’re staying one step Wendy Reiss , VP of Sales and National Accounts at KAS Rugs , explained to the company’s decision to drop three collections sourced from China amid tariff uncertainty. Kas is holding prices steady on current inven- tory to encourage retailer stocking while exploring alternative sourcing options. “We’re staying one step

Natco Home’s Litner cites a mixed response to its strategies from its retail partners, with some sharing tariffs with suppliers and others canceling or delaying orders, reflecting a more cau- tious buying environment. The recently announced liquidation of Culver City, CA’s H.D. Buttercup—a home furnishings icon renowned for luxury and artisan-made pieces— underscores the economic challenges confronting the sector. Tariffs, along- side broader economic uncertainty, disrupted the company’s business The recently announced liquidation of Culver City, CA’s H.D. Buttercup—a home furnishings icon renowned for luxury and artisan-made pieces— underscores the economic challenges confronting the sector. Tariffs, along- side broader economic uncertainty, disrupted the company’s business

As conditions evolve, companies across the area rug sector are identifying important strategic priorities. Here are some tips collected from industry players and experts for tackling uncharted tariff impacts ahead: Emphasize Flexibility and Scenario Planning Retailers and suppliers alike must monitor tariff news and exclusion updates continuously, engage brokers early, and be prepared to adjust sourcing and inventory strategies swiftly. Leverage Domestic Manufacturing The renewed interest in U.S.-made rugs is not a temporary hedge but may represent a fundamental sourcing shift— improving lead times, quality control, and risk mitigation. Diversify Sourcing Footprints The renewed interest in U.S.-made rugs is not a temporary hedge but may represent a fundamental sourcing shift— improving lead times, quality control, and risk mitigation. Diversify Sourcing Footprints Global suppliers benefit from multi-country production capabilities, allowing nimble reallocation of orders and mitigating regional tariff impacts. Communicate Transparently With consumers facing higher prices and fewer promotions, clear messaging around value and quality is vital to maintain brand loyalty. Invest in Innovation and Marketing Distinguishing products through craftsmanship, ethical sourcing, and compelling storytelling will help brands weather cost pressures and stand out in a crowded marketplace. With consumers facing higher prices and fewer promotions, clear messaging around value and quality is vital to maintain brand loyalty. Invest in Innovation and Marketing Distinguishing products through craftsmanship, ethical sourcing, and compelling storytelling will help brands weather cost pressures and stand out in a crowded marketplace. As conditions evolve, companies across the area rug sector are identifying important strategic priorities. Here are some tips collected from industry players and experts for tackling uncharted tariff impacts ahead: Emphasize Flexibility and Scenario Planning Retailers and suppliers alike must monitor tariff news and exclusion updates continuously, engage brokers early, and be prepared to adjust sourcing and inventory strategies swiftly. Leverage Domestic Manufacturing Global suppliers benefit from multi-country production capabilities, allowing nimble reallocation of orders and mitigating regional tariff impacts. Communicate Transparently

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InDEPTH | RUG & KILIM CELEBRATES

Rug & Kilim founder Josh Nazmiyal (seated) flanked by sons Sina (left) and Cyrus.

RUG & KILIM CELEBRATES 45 I n the area rug industry, there is an elite group of industry veterans who have not only been in the rug trade for over four decades, but who have been trendsetters and taste makers in the industry, and who have had their family along with them to carry the business forward for the new generation. One of the shining examples of this elite group of rug industry stalwarts is Jahanshah Josh Nazmiyal of Rug & Kilim, who in 2025 is celebrating 45 years in the area rug trade, and who in recent years has been joined by his family, including sons Cyrus and Sina, and more recently, his daughter-in-law Brittany.

BY RODNEY HAKIM CONTRIBUTING EDITOR

45 Years of Tradition, Innovation, and Family Friendliness in the Rug Industry

“ The store caters to designers in a very spacious way … when we have somebody in the showroom, it’s not in a rush and we’re there to take care of their needs. “

Exterior and interior scenes from Rug & Kilim’s 5000-square-foot showroom in Long Island City.

RI: Rug & Kilim is celebrating its 45th year in the rug trade, having been established in 1980. What was the inception of Rug & Kilim? Josh: It kind of fell in our lap. My cousins were in the business, and we’ve never looked back. We didn’t know anything about carpets when it happened, and we learned as we started the business. It was a very different time in those days, and there weren’t many carpet shops or stores. Those that existed were mainly there to service current car- pets or buy antique rugs for the Euro- pean market, and our push was to sell. So that’s how we started, in a very small shop, 780 square feet in Short Hills, New Jersey, and very soon we expanded to a 5,000-square-foot show- room two years later on Route 10. A major showroom. RI: Over the course of its 45-year his- tory, Rug & Kilim has had locations in

New Jersey, in New York City, and now in Long Island City. How is the current location in Long Island City different from the previous locations, and has it been a better space for you since you’ve been there? Josh: It was really kind of just pre-Covid when our wholesale business was growing quite fast, and of course we had a number of insistent businesses from loyal designers that we’ve been acquainted with in the last many years, so it seemed like a very appropriate move for us, allowing for much more space to show our inventory, and it’s been phenomenal! We love it. The store caters to designers in a very spacious way, and unlike our previous space, when we have somebody in the showroom, it’s not in a rush and we’re there to take care of their needs. RI: Similarly, Rug & Kilim started out in 1980 as a vendor of traditional area rugs, and now has branched out

RUG INSIDER had the privilege of sitting down with Josh for an exclusive interview, in which we discussed the beginnings of Rug & Kilim forty-five years ago, its growth and evolution over four and a half decades, the impact his children have had on the business, where he sees the rug trade moving in the years ahead, and more! The full transcript of our exclusive one-on-one discussion follows. Check out the interview, see Rug & Kilim at Cover Connect NY in September, and visit them online at rugandkilim.com.

InDEPTH | RUG & KILIM CELEBRATES

into numerous rug lines, including Scandinavian rugs, modern rugs, and more. Tell us about that journey, and what served as inspiration to explore some of the newer product cate- gories. Josh: We’ve always been at the cutting edge of our business, very forward thinkers, and we’ve consistently over the last 45 years touched newfound weaves in our business. Scandinavian was one of them, and now we’re pulling up on our French Deco production. We’ve always been creative and focused on bringing new materials to the business, from silk to Nepal to high- and-low in China, many exotic yarns, and now Scandinavian. There’s been a lot of ‘first time’ in Rug & Kilim. RI: In your forty-  ve years in the rug trade, has there been one constant

or one through-line that has stayed with you throughout all the years, whether that is a person, an idea, a rug, or a way of doing business? Josh: Yes. To buy and associate myself with only the finest and highest quality. RI: The Rug & Kilim team has been expanding over the last few years, notably with the addition of Josh’s sons, Cyrus and Sina. How has their addition to the team impacted Rug & Kilim? Josh: Tremendous. They are phenome- nal; they love what they do. They’re eager, they follow the tradition of Rug & Kilim, and they have been instrumen- tal in our growth and working with the rest of the team to get where we are. RI: In addition to Cyrus and Sina join- ing the team, another Nazmiyal, Brit- tany, has also come on board. What are the respective roles of these three younger generation

Nazmiyals? Josh: Well, it seems like Brittany is com- pleting the mix. Sina is in sales and marketing and many other things; he also has his eyes on antique rugs as well. Cyrus is in wholesale and administra- tion, and basically everything in the business goes under Cyrus’s eyes. And Brittany, although very wisely, she’s starting with sales, my goal is to see her more in forming the direction and the quality of our brand. RI: Your company has worked ardu- ously on introducing numerous new product lines, some of which are pic- tured in this article, and all of which look fantastic! With all that focus on the new, how have you kept yourself and your staff connected with the vintage and antique products in your vast collection?

InDEPTH | RUG & KILIM CELEBRATES

Josh: Yes, vintage and antique rugs are our inspiration. I’m always telling my team that, to make anything new, one must first master the classics and understand them best. RI: Can you discuss some of your lat- est collections, and what types of styles and materials you are cur- rently focusing on? Josh: Most of my focus now is on Mid- Century and Art Deco. We’re acquiring some of the most exciting, even col- lectible French and European rugs in our collections, and they’re always informing the way we honor these designs and the names behind them, historically. I’ve built a collection of exotic yarns, only the best wools, all-natural silks, even metallic threads, that we’re now introducing over so many years. The focus is on an immersive look, like those period pieces that inspire us, but in ways they couldn’t be made in their day. RI: Are the recently introduced tar- iffs on foreign goods having a big impact on your business? Josh: We have decided to observe and keep an eye on how things progress for now, as we think the tariffs might be lifted with India. While customs enforcement has been unpredictable, we’ve chosen to remain steady and consistent. For nearly a decade, we’ve taken pride in maintaining stable pricing, especially for our Scandinavian series, which will continue unchanged. RI: Rug & Kilim has been a staple of a number of area rug and home decor trade shows for the last few years. Has this strategy been suc- cessful, and are there any trade shows that are of particular impor- tance for you?

Above: Design 34372 is new to the Block Print line of R&K’s Modern Classics Collection; Scandinavian design 32016 (top right) uses a blend of wool and exotic yarns while Scandinavian Watson design 33688 is made with handwoven silk.

Above: Design 24767 from the Burano Collection is an ode to tribal aesthetics; contemporary Oushak design 33913 (right) is inspired by vintage and antique designs.

Designs 29587 (left) and 30111 are exciting new additions to Rug & Kilim’s Scandinavian rug collection— a contemporary reimagining of Swedish Minimalism and vintage rugs and textiles of Rollakan and Rya traditions.

“ We’ve always been creative and focused on bringing new materials to the business… There’s been a lot of ‘first time’ in Rug & Kilim. “

Left: “Nu” flat weave design 31312 features a boucle-like texture of blended yarns; new flat weave Scandinavian outdoor rug design 34143 above reinvents vintage Scandinavian Kilim in a proprietary blend of performance polyester.

InDEPTH | RUG & KILIM CELEBRATES

Josh: Trade shows have been a means for us to learn and expand our clients. It has been quite expensive, but it certainly is worth it to learn about new accounts and be introduced to new collaborations. RI: With Cover Connect NY coming up in September, but no Rug Show scheduled this year, what can we look forward to from Rug & Kilim in the New York City trade show? Josh: We have so much new in our Block Print, our Art Deco and Mid-Cen- tury lines, with a stress on Scandinavian, which is always growing, and introduc- ing new textures. RI: Rug & Kilim’s website is a marvel, with an outstanding level of visual clarity and functionality. What was the process of revamping the web- site to be so all-inclusive? Josh: It started many, many years ago with taking good pictures, and it has continued that way. We are very determined and very focused on improving our website, and we continue to do so. This is not an effort for a few years or a few months; it continues, and I’m happy to see that it’s paying back after so many years. RI: Rug & Kilim has also branched out into boutique hospitality. How has that process unfolded, and how signi  cant has this addition been to the company? Josh: We’ve been very lucky to have been selected among so many for the projects that we’ve been involved in. To be very frank with you, it’s come down to the relationships we’ve had. I like to say that we intend to put even more energy into our hospitality, and we love those projects, because they teach us so much and they keep us on our toes. They’re fun projects, and the fact that we know as many workshops in India as we do, and the close relationships we have with them and nurturing them, is

“ We have been managing to grow 20-25% every year in the last five years … for the next three years, our promise is to stay with the same exact way of doing business. “

InDEPTH | RUG & KILIM CELEBRATES

RUG & KILIM’S NEXT GENERATION.

Siblings (left to right) Cyrus and his wife Brittany along with Sina Nazmiyal follow the tradition of Rug & Kilim and are instrumental in the company’s growth.

very handy. It is one thing to make a carpet in 3-4 months; it’s a whole other thing when there are 200 to be made at a certain time. RI: With all the growth and expan- sion of the past few years, Rug & Kilim has been paving the road for what the future of the rug industry is. What do you see as the future of Rug & Kilim, and of the rug trade? Josh: The hardest question. This is something I battle with all the time, but we are determined for the next three years to do exactly what we’re doing. Of course, there’s always a pressure, but my intention is for the next three years to stay where we are for sure. The industry? For a boutique business

like ours the players may change, but we’re basically always going to be sourc- ing the best of what‘s being produced and finding people who want them. That’s really our goal, and that’s my promise so long as I can grow the business by providing only the highest quality. Right now, our means of growing the business are tapestries, Mid-Century, Deco and period pieces from that era, and of course we’re constantly trying to upgrade our offerings to our wholesale audience. RI: As this is Rug & Kilim’s 45th anniversary, what can we expect for the 50th anniversary, and beyond? Josh: I suspect that it will be very interesting and probably very exciting

to see the 50th. We have been managing to grow 20-25% every year in the last five years, and I suspect that we’ll main- tain the same growth if not more, and like I said, for the next three years, our promise is to stay with the same exact way of doing business. We, just like I mentioned before, keep adding to our categories. We’re now heavily invested in Aubussons and European weaving, and it’s exciting for us. This is probably a market that will develop in a few years, but we’re planting the seeds now! rugandkilim.com

Faberge Collection

Harounian Rugs International Cover Connect NY, Metropolitan Pavilion, M-09 September 13 - 15, 2025

WWW.HRIRUGS.COM

800-682-3330

INFO@HRIRUGS.COM

InFOCUS | LINEAR SATISFACTION

LINEAR SATISFACTION Lines are all around us. They vary in width, direction and length—defining or implying forms. Whether geometric and mathmatically- determined or natural and organic, lines in design serve both structural and decorative purpose.

Via by Warp & Weft presents a sleek and understated graphic aesthetic with elongated vertical lines. Alluring geometric patterns and engaging colors define Safavieh’s Maya rug. The hand-drawn lines of Lino from Creative Matters are inspired by the genius of Miró, Kandinsky and Obering. Landscape by KAS delivers a plush Scandinavian vibe, while Nature from HRI creates a chill glacial striation. To find an abundance of “linear satisfaction” this summer, turn the page. ;-)

Via from Warp & Weft’s Crossroads Collection | warpandweft.com

InFOCUS | LINEAR SATISFACTION

“ A drawing is simply a line going for a walk. “ PAUL KLEE

2. Creative Matters’ Lino Ochre | creativemattersinc.com 3. Oriental Designer Rugs’ Casbah Collection | orientaldesignerrugs.net 4. Emotion from Samad’s Attitudes Collection | samad.com 5. Safavieh’s Maya Collection MYA115A | safavieh.com 6. Circa Foundry by Couristan | couristan.com 7. Momeni’s Abbott Collection | momeni.com 8. Terranova Onyx from New Moon Rugs | newmoonrugs.com

InFOCUS | LINEAR SATISFACTION

“ Lines are the most fundamental element artists use. Lines organize the visible world. “ HUMANITIES LIBRETEXTS

InFOCUS | LINEAR SATISFACTION

15. Kalaty’s Elios Collection | kalaty.com 16. Wave Design SH75703 by S&H Rugs | shrugs.com 17. Zollanvari Studio Baneh Kelim 14 | zollanvari.com 18. Kas Rugs’ Darcy Landscape | kasrugs.com

DISCOVER THE KALATY DIFFERENCE

MORE THAN 45 YEARS OF ARTISANAL HANDCRAFTED AREA RUGS INTRODUCING THE LIMA COLLECTION

LAS VEGAS MARKET

| JULY 27 - 31, 2025

WMC, B455

View our up-to-the-minute entire inventory online. SHRUGS.COM

MODERN, TRANSITIONAL & TRADITIONAL

40 Universal PL | Carlstadt, NJ 07072 | Tel: 201-933-4300 | Email: info@shrugs.com Visit us at COVER Connect New York, September 13 – 15, 2025

InDEPTH | WEAVING BETTER LIVES

Children actively participate in a group lesson at a Child Friendly Community in India. Children actively participate in a group lesson at a Child Friendly Community in India.

Weaving Better Lives How a Non-Profit Organization Fights Child Labor “W e believe labor is an important part of the supply chain, and our workers must be treated with the dignity and respect they deserve,” declares Patrick McDarrah , President of Emma Gardner Design , in New York City. Erika Kurtz , Chief Operating Officer of New Moon Rugs based in Wilmington, DE, shares his commitment. However, she acknowledges, a concerned American company can’t see the situations their workers face thousands of miles away. “When you’re working from afar—as well-intentioned as you might be—it’s impossible to know what may or may not be happening at your mill when you’re not there. Facilities change, people come and go. There are so many moving parts.” Erika Kurtz , Chief Operating Officer of New Moon Rugs based in Wilmington, DE, shares his commitment. However, she acknowledges, a concerned American company can’t see the situations their workers face thousands of miles away. “When you’re working from afar—as well-intentioned as you might be—it’s impossible to know what may or may not be happening at your mill when you’re not there. Facilities change, people come and go. There are so many moving parts.” e believe labor is an important part of the supply chain, and our workers must be treated with the dignity and respect they deserve,” declares Patrick McDarrah , President of Emma Gardner Design , in New York City.

BY CAROL MILANO, CONTRIBUTING EDITOR BY CAROL MILANO, CONTRIBUTING EDITOR

Caption Caption

InDEPTH | WEAVING BETTER LIVES

nered with GoodWeave “to insure there’s no child labor. I think that’s an important part of the process. I want to be sure that my workers are taken care of,” affirms Tupu. “They do beautiful, amazing work—part of [this] is honoring them, and what they do, and the way that they do it.” Tupu appreciates GoodWeave’s regular visits to each factory, to support “edu- cation for the kids and better working conditions,” as well as other valuable benefits. Frequent updates report “the impact they have on a community, in- cluding how many children have been affected. It’s almost like a newsletter, telling us about current risks to vulner- able [areas]. We learn who’s in leader- ship roles, and what’s happening in education, working conditions and children’s rights in that specific location. It’s important to me that the money we pay as fees goes to the community, to make certain that we’re giving back that way,” she adds. Lucy Tupu Design Studio’s rugs are made at a family-run business in Katmandu. “I’m always talking to the founder/owner, making sure that he and his family and the people who work for them are okay,” says Tupu. Kurtz has visited Nepal once or twice a year, since the early 1990s. When her father, company founder John Kurtz, first started production there, “the humanitarian aspects were important to him,” she recounts. He was working with USAID to help teach people about rug production and their rights. New Moon soon aligned with GoodWeave, when it began, as a “third party that would make sure there was oversight.” Kurtz calls GoodWeave’s Hamro Ghar facility, “near and dear to my heart. What do you do if you find something wrong in a workplace?” she asks. ”Hamro Ghar is a program that offers the ability to move forward. It’s a boarding school for when they’ve rescued a child from a factory, and couldn’t find the parents. It allows a child to get an education in a struc- tured social setting. There is so much

“ It brings peace of mind to have GoodWeave providing drop-in inspection and supervision so that things aren’t happening that I don’t know about. “ ERIKA KURTZ, NEW MOON RUGS

Both McDarrah and Kurtz selected the same source of protection for their workers in Nepal: GoodWeave Interna- tional. This non-profit organization, founded in 1994 by Nobel laureate Kailash Satyarthi, is the leading global institution working to stop child and forced labor in supply chains. They have already restored freedom to 10,876 children and provided educa- tional opportunities to 102,856. In 2004, over 125,000 workers were pro- tected under the GoodWeave Stan- dard. Their global impact goes beyond numbers, as GoodWeave promotes ethical labor practices and safeguards the rights of children and workers. Partnering with GoodWeave, “was a necessary step for us, because of the tension between Western standards, ideals, customs and history, and those in less developed communities,” ex-

plains McDarrah. “The idea of a family working together may be accepted in less [modernized] countries, so it can seem natural to have children at work near their parents, like at a family farm in the US. In either case, local monitor- ing is the only way to overcome those traditions.” For Kurtz, “It brings peace of mind to have GoodWeave providing drop-in inspection and supervision so that things aren’t happening that I don’t know about. If New Moon can’t pro- vide logistical support, it’s important to have an impartial third party there for us. To me, that support on the ground is invaluable.” PROTECTING CHILDREN Since 2016, Lucy Tupu , Creative Direc- tor of Lucy Tupu Design Studio , in New York and New Zealand, has part-

EXPANDING THE OPPORTUNITIES

more than can be done to improve the system well beyond the inspection process. I find this program so mean- ingful, I’ve been taking my daughter on my visits there since she was a baby. We bring school supplies, see what they’re doing, and let the chil- dren know that we care about helping them.” “In less developed countries, young people may often need to work, due to poverty, migration, or family sepa- ration,” admits McDarrah. To monitor this delicate situation, “GoodWeave is for real. They’re professional and thorough, with a local infrastructure of people who speak the language and can talk to the worker who’s trying to support their family. Local staff does the work. Unless you’ve got these teams, it can’t be done.”

are not permitted to work in any industry considered hazardous, which includes the carpet industry. Convinced that sustainable change begins at the community level, Good- Weave runs the Child Friendly Commu- nity Program (CFC), in collaboration with MSEMVS, another not-for-profit organization striving to eliminate child labor. The CFC tests learning levels for at-risk children, focusing on their proficiency in math, reading, writing, Hindi and English. Those scoring below grade level are sent to Motivational Learning Centers, where formal educa- tion helps them catch up. CFC’s academic approaches can bring impressive results. Struggling students sometimes progress so much they qualify for government scholarship exams! “This opens a pathway to

GoodWeave is headquartered in Wash- ington DC, with locally-led affiliates in South Asia and Europe. “We don’t just identify child labor in supply chains— we offer holistic solutions,” explains Navneet Singh , Deputy Director, GoodWeave. “Our work extends into remediation, education, health, and sustained community engagement. This integrative approach restores dignity and opportunity to [those who are] most vulnerable.” In India, the legal minimum age for em- ployment is 14 years. Adolescents be- tween 14 and 18 years are allowed to work only in non-hazardous occupations. Specific regulations concern their work- ing hours and mandatory rest periods. In Nepal, children between 14 and 17

“ We see GoodWeave as a critical partner in our business, and cherish what they do … They’re necessary in our supply chain! “ PATRICK MCDARRAH, EMMA GARDNER DESIGN

continuing education,” says Singh. For adolescent girls, they provide valuable Life Skills Education. “Sessions on de- cision-making, puberty, career [possi- bilities] and personal hygiene improve their confidence and empower them to dream bigger, to make informed choices about their future,” says Singh. In a program explaining their rights, girls might learn they do not have to marry at 14. Women of any age are encouraged to complete a high school education, even within a culture stressing the importance of husband and child. In 2021, GoodWeave began a CFC program in a small village in Uttar Pradesh, where 147 school-age chil- dren live. “School attendance was alarmingly low—just 30%. But through consistent community engagement,

awareness campaigns, and child- focused interventions, attendance steadily improved. After three years, the attendance rate has passed 90%,” Singh reports proudly. When the school received an award for the 2022-23 school year, the principal credited GoodWeave’s team for their vital role in this transformation. “This achievement reflects the power of collaboration in creating child-friendly, education-fo- cused communities.” In India, local residents sometimes choose to run a particular CFC as a type of day care center. That allows par- ents to drop off their children there, on the way to work. GoodWeave’s Child Protection Com- mittees help villagers become active advocates of education and protectors of children’s rights. “This fosters a

powerful cultural shift,” says Singh. “Communities understand the value of education, and their responsibility to ensure that no child in their village is subjected to labor.” Partners especially appreciate Good- Weave’s broader programs, like those addressing the health and well-being of weavers and artisans. For example, when free eye check-ups and “health camps” reach the communities where the rugs are produced, they’re signifi- cantly supporting the extended families of workers. INDUSTRY INVOLVEMENT “Many of our licensed partners tell us that their association with GoodWeave makes them both proud and confi- dent—that their supply chains are being monitored with integrity, and

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