Get to know Moroccan rugs

Rugs are hip! Previously, rugs were only used under the sofa. But nowadays, a nice rug is also essential in the bedroom, kitchen and even the bathroom. A much-seen trend in the rug world are Moroccan rugs. From Morocco come various rugs, such as Berber and kilim rugs. But what's the actual difference between these Moroccan rugs, and how do you style them best?

Berber rug

A Berber rug is a form of Moroccan rug and these days they're very popular, but where exactly do they come from? The original inhabitants of North Africa are often called Berbers, but the word Berber also means hand-knotted rug. Originally, a Berber rug was used for practical reasons, such as a prayer rug or blanket. In the mountains, winters can get very cold. Original Berber rugs are handmade from sheepswool from the Atlas Mountains and are therefore high-pile. But these days, a Berber rug is also made in Algeria, Tunisia, Libya, Mali and Nigeria. Previously, Berber rugs weren't dyed, so they kept the original colour of the sheepswool. That's why most Berber rugs were broken white in colour. These days we see lots of different colours and patterns because the Moroccan rugs are being dyed.

Kilim rug

A kilim rug is also a variant of the well-known Moroccan rugs. What makes a kilim rug different from a Berber rug is the weaving technique. Where a Berber rug is knotted, a kilim is flat-woven, resulting in a sort of 'mat'. Often the smaller motifs are what have meaning. The motifs in the kilims are therefore called 'kam'. In the past, this type of Moroccan rug was also dyed. This was done with natural dyes. These colours were extracted from plants. Because these are natural colours, it was always difficult to get the same colour 'green', for example. This took a long time. After the flock of sheep was sheared, a beautiful kilim was made from the wool that came off the sheep. Kilim rugs, just like Berber rugs, were also used as prayer rugs or given as gifts during a wedding. Authentic Moroccan rugs are very expensive, which is why Volero has designed unique look-alikes at a reasonable price. These rugs are made from synthetic material so they're easy to maintain and feel super soft!

Moroccan rugs: styling

Moroccan rugs come in different types, but also with countless designs and colours. The more classical or understated rugs look beautiful in a modern, basic interior or indeed an industrial space and create a real eye-catcher! Some Moroccan rugs have been given a modern makeover and you'll find them in trendy colours, such as ochre yellow or pink. These rugs look fantastic in a Scandinavian space with lots of accessories. Moroccan rugs can be styled in many ways, depending on your interior type. Do you have a classical or industrial interior? Then go for a classical kilim rug with subdued colours and use robust accessories with wood and steel to maintain calm. Do you have a modern or Scandinavian style? Then go for a soft Berber rug in light colours, with geometric patterns to bring extra warmth into your home.

Not looking for Moroccan rugs? Then check out our Persian rugs!