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- Styles
- Origin
- Colour
- Pattern
- Afghan Rugs
- Material
- Persian Rugs
- What is a Gabbeh rug?
A Gabbeh rug is a type of hand-knotted tribal carpet, traditionally woven by nomadic and semi-nomadic tribes in the Zagros Mountains of southern Iran and now widely produced by skilled artisans in Afghanistan. The name “Gabbeh” comes from the Persian word meaning “raw” or “unclipped,” perfectly capturing the spirit of these rugs: tactile, organic, and richly expressive.
Originally created for practical use in tribal tents, these carpets were not designed for commerce, but for comfort, storytelling, and heritage. Woven from memory rather than formal patterns, each rug embodies the personality, traditions, and daily life of the weaver. Over time, what began as a domestic necessity evolved into a distinct art form prized for its honest beauty and cultural authenticity.
Today, Afghan artisans continue the tradition, preserving the coarse knotting and high wool pile that define this style, while also introducing slight refinements in structure and composition. The visual language remains true to its roots—featuring wide fields of colour, broken stripes, and minimalistic motifs such as trees, goats, or human figures—but has found a new resonance in contemporary interiors.
Gabbeh rugs are celebrated for their ability to bring depth and warmth into modern spaces. Their naturally dyed, earthy tones—indigo, ochre, walnut, rust, and cream—complement both minimal and rustic interiors. The subtle irregularities in weave and colouration offer visual relief in sleek architectural settings, where straight lines and clean surfaces can otherwise feel austere. Whether laid over polished concrete, timber flooring, or natural stone, a Gabbeh adds softness and soul without overwhelming the space.
Beyond aesthetics, their construction makes them a practical choice. The thick wool pile provides sound insulation and thermal comfort, making them well-suited for living rooms, bedrooms, and studies. For those who value both form and function—particularly interior designers and homeowners with an eye for tactile design—Gabbehs represent a rare synthesis of history, craftsmanship, and understated elegance.
Over the years, Gabbeh rugs have undergone a quiet yet significant transformation, evolving from their richly symbolic, often whimsical origins into pieces that reflect a distinctly modern design philosophy. Traditionally, Gabbehs featured spontaneous, pictorial motifs—trees, animals, and abstract figures woven from memory. These expressive designs told stories and celebrated tribal identity. However, as the aesthetic preferences of rug collectors and interior designers have shifted, so too has the Gabbeh. Today, many artisans intentionally simplify their designs, producing rugs with minimal borders, repeated geometric elements, or large uninterrupted colour fields. These contemporary interpretations maintain the soul of the original craft while aligning more naturally with the visual language of modern interiors.
This gradual simplification has not diminished the appeal of Gabbeh rugs—on the contrary, it has expanded their relevance. Their muted tones, abstract symmetry, and restrained compositions lend themselves perfectly to contemporary spaces, from minimalist apartments to Scandinavian-inspired homes. Where once they were full of folkloric symbolism, Gabbehs are now equally celebrated for their textural subtlety and quiet elegance. By paring back the decorative elements, modern Gabbehs allow the quality of the wool, the hand-spun texture, and the tonal depth of natural dyes to take centre stage. This evolution not only reflects changing tastes, but underscores the adaptability of Gabbeh weaving—a tradition deeply rooted in history, yet continually evolving to suit the needs of the present.
- How are Gabbeh rugs made?
The process of making a Gabbeh rug is entirely manual, carried out using time-honoured techniques passed down through generations. It begins with the shearing of wool from mountain sheep, whose coats are particularly thick and resilient due to their environment. This wool is then cleaned by hand, carded, and spun into yarn—often using traditional drop spindles. The yarn is then dyed using natural sources such as madder root, pomegranate peel, walnut husks, and indigo, creating rich, enduring tones that develop character as they age.
Once prepared, the yarn is knotted onto a warp using a ground loom. Afghan Gabbehs are typically woven at a relatively low knot density—around 40 to 60 knots per square inch—but what they lack in fineness, they make up for in depth and softness. The pile is deliberately left thick, which lends the rug a plush, comforting presence underfoot.
Each weaving is improvised rather than pre-planned. Motifs emerge organically as the weaver works, allowing for a spontaneity and rhythm that machine-made rugs simply cannot replicate. Many designs feature a loosely structured grid of geometric shapes or pictorial elements, while others consist of bold colour fields subtly varied through abrash (the natural variation in hue caused by hand-dyeing in small batches).
This intuitive approach lends Gabbeh rugs their painterly quality, which interior designers often find invaluable when grounding an otherwise minimal room. A large, softly toned piece can define a space within an open-plan layout, while smaller rugs serve beautifully in alcoves, beside beds, or under reading chairs. The wool’s natural lanolin also provides resistance to staining and moisture, making these rugs surprisingly practical despite their artisanal provenance.
For those who appreciate craftsmanship, a Gabbeh is more than a floor covering—it is a tactile narrative of time, process, and human touch. Its imperfections are part of its appeal, inviting both the eye and the foot to linger.
- What makes a Gabbeh rug different from other modern/ contemporary rugs?
The distinction between a Gabbeh rug and other modern or contemporary rugs lies not only in how it is made, but in what it represents. Most modern rugs available today are designed digitally, manufactured on power looms, and made from synthetic fibres like polypropylene or viscose. They are perfectly uniform, repeatable, and made to follow trends.
A Gabbeh, by contrast, is the product of a weaver’s memory, imagination, and heritage. Each rug is entirely hand-knotted using natural wool that has been dyed by hand, often in village settings where the same family may handle every stage of production—from shearing the sheep to tying the final knot. This continuity infuses each piece with integrity, a tactile richness, and a sense of origin that mass production can never replicate.
The aesthetic language is equally distinct. Gabbehs speak in bold forms and muted tones. They may present wide bands of saffron, ochre, or deep blue, interrupted only by a stylised tree, a pair of animals, or an isolated figure. Their minimalist geometry and use of negative space echo principles found in modernist art, which is why they work so seamlessly in contemporary interiors. Yet they do so without artifice or design-by-committee polish. What appears simple at first glance often reveals layers of intention upon closer inspection.
Because they’re woven with spontaneity, no two Gabbehs are ever the same—a fact that resonates with collectors and designers alike. For interior use, they are especially powerful when paired with clean architectural lines or natural materials such as lime plaster, stone, leather, and timber. Their textured surfaces and organic dye shifts soften sharp edges and add a sense of quiet luxury.
From a practical perspective, the dense wool offers longevity and resilience, even in high-traffic areas. These are rugs designed not to be admired from afar, but to be walked on, lived with, and appreciated over time. They are not only different in construction—they are different in spirit, in experience, and in the quiet authority they bring to a room.
- Are Gabbeh rugs handmade or machine-made?
Authentic Gabbeh rugs are, without exception, entirely handmade. This fact is not simply a technical distinction—it is fundamental to their identity, character, and lasting appeal. Every stage of their creation, from the shearing of wool to the final trim, is executed by human hands, often within a small weaving community or family setting. This intimacy with the material and process results in rugs that carry not just a visual story but a tactile and emotional one as well.
In today’s rug market, machine-made imitations—produced rapidly in large factories and often using synthetic fibres—are common. These copies might mimic the visual simplicity of a Gabbeh but are devoid of the integrity, longevity, and nuanced beauty that comes from true craftsmanship. Their uniform texture and printed designs are instantly recognisable to those familiar with handmade work, lacking the irregularities and warmth that define the original.
At London House Rugs, we exclusively supply handmade rugs. Our Gabbeh collection is carefully sourced from reputable Afghan producers who work within the traditions established by their Persian predecessors. Each rug is individually knotted, often taking several months to complete. These are not products of efficiency—they are products of intention, built to last for generations and to improve with age.
For those specifying rugs in interior projects, this assurance of authenticity is critical. A handmade Gabbeh will not only endure wear far better than its machine-made counterpart but will also age gracefully, developing a patina that enhances rather than detracts. In well-used living areas, underfoot comfort and visual richness combine to make a lasting impression, while for rug collectors and design purists, the tactile variance of hand-spun yarn and abrash-dyed fields is simply irreplaceable.
- Why are Gabbeh rugs so thick and soft?
One of the most defining and desirable qualities of a Gabbeh rug is its exceptional thickness and softness. Unlike many traditional Oriental rugs that favour low pile for intricate design work, Gabbehs embrace a higher, denser pile—a deliberate feature born of their original function as portable floor coverings in harsh climates. The thick wool provided much-needed insulation against the cold ground, while the softness made them inviting places to sit, sleep, and gather.
This same plush character makes Gabbehs uniquely well-suited to modern interiors where comfort is a priority. Their pile height, often between 1 and 2 cm, creates a luxurious underfoot experience that’s ideal for barefoot areas such as bedrooms, reading corners, and relaxed living spaces. The softness comes from the use of highland wool, which contains more lanolin than lower-altitude fleece. This gives the fibre a natural sheen and gentle bounce, while also making it more resistant to soiling and wear.
From a design perspective, the tactile richness of a Gabbeh introduces warmth and balance to spaces dominated by hard finishes—stone, tile, glass, or polished concrete. Even when rendered in minimal palettes, these rugs create a grounding layer that draws the eye downward and softens the overall energy of a room. Their sculptural presence allows them to act not only as functional flooring but also as a form of textural artwork.
For families with children or pets, the dense wool serves a further purpose: it cushions impact, absorbs sound, and conceals marks more effectively than flat-weave or synthetic rugs. Choosing a Gabbeh isn’t just about softness—it’s about creating a space that invites relaxation and stands up to everyday life with ease and grace.
- How can I tell if a Gabbeh rug is authentic?
Determining the authenticity of a Gabbeh rug involves more than checking its label—it requires an understanding of its structure, materials, and character. An authentic Gabbeh is always hand-knotted. If you examine the back, you should see individually tied knots and a degree of irregularity that reflects the weaver’s hand. Unlike machine-made rugs, which often feature a uniform, grid-like appearance, handmade Gabbehs will show slight variations in knot placement and pile height—what we call the "human fingerprint" of craft.
The wool used is another strong indicator. True Gabbehs are woven with high-quality, hand-spun wool that feels springy and supple, often with a faint oily texture from the natural lanolin. This not only gives the rug its renowned softness but also contributes to its resilience and ability to resist stains. The colours should appear rich yet subtly uneven; this is known as abrash and results from the use of small dye batches and hand-dyeing methods. These tonal shifts are a celebrated hallmark of authenticity, not a flaw.
In terms of design, genuine Gabbehs tend to exhibit playful spontaneity. Motifs are often asymmetrical or unusually placed, reflecting the weaver’s mood or memory rather than a strict pattern. Figures of animals, trees, or symbolic forms may emerge mid-rug, unbalanced and yet deeply intentional—a storytelling technique that can’t be replicated by machines or automated looms.
When sourcing a Gabbeh, particularly for a design project or investment collection, it’s vital to buy from a trusted specialist. At London House Rugs, every piece is vetted for quality, provenance, and craftsmanship. We source directly from Afghan artisan cooperatives and ensure that each rug meets the standards of heritage weaving—because for us, authenticity is not a selling point, it’s a promise.
- What materials are used in Gabbeh rugs?
Gabbeh rugs are almost always woven from 100% wool, a material chosen not just for its availability, but for its remarkable durability, insulating properties, and tactile richness. This wool, often sourced from highland sheep, contains a higher proportion of lanolin than standard fleece, giving the finished rug a soft, resilient pile that naturally resists dirt and moisture. In many cases, the warp and weft are also made from wool, though some Afghan weavers now incorporate cotton warps to add further structural integrity, particularly in larger or more finely woven pieces.
What sets the wool in a Gabbeh apart is that it is typically hand-spun, a technique that introduces a subtle irregularity in fibre thickness. This irregularity enhances the visual and tactile texture of the rug and allows it to hold natural dyes with extraordinary depth. Rather than producing the flat, uniform sheen seen in many modern synthetic rugs, Gabbeh wool reflects light softly and unevenly, creating a finish that feels as alive as the design itself.
The dyes used are often derived from natural sources: indigo for blue, madder root for red, walnut husks for brown, and pomegranate skin for golden tones. The colour palette tends to favour earthy, grounded hues—tones that not only age beautifully but also harmonise easily with a wide variety of interior styles. These naturally dyed colours evolve subtly over time, developing a patina that enriches the rug’s presence in a space.
For interior use, the material composition of a Gabbeh makes it ideal for both comfort and longevity. Wool’s natural insulating properties help regulate room temperature and reduce noise, while its stain-resistance makes it a practical choice for homes with children, pets, or high footfall. Unlike synthetic carpets, which can feel cold and unyielding, a wool Gabbeh rug offers softness underfoot and brings an organic warmth to any environment.
- Where do Gabbeh rugs originate from?
The roots of the Gabbeh rug tradition lie with the Qashqai nomads of southwestern Iran—an indigenous, pastoralist people who historically travelled across the Zagros Mountains with their herds. These rugs were originally made not for trade, but for use within tents: as bedding, floor coverings, and expressions of family history or spiritual beliefs. The designs were often woven without a pattern, improvised directly on the loom from memory and instinct, giving rise to the highly personal, often whimsical aesthetic that defines the style.
In more recent decades, Afghanistan has become the primary centre of Gabbeh rug production, particularly in regions where displaced weavers have revived traditional techniques with renewed purpose. Afghan Gabbehs retain the thick pile and symbolic design elements of their Iranian ancestors, but with subtle differences, such as a slightly tighter weave, bolder colour contrasts, or more structured geometry, depending on the weaving region and tribal influence.
These rugs are often produced in village cooperatives or family workshops, where the act of weaving remains deeply tied to identity, community, and livelihood. This human dimension adds immeasurable value to each piece: when you purchase a Gabbeh, you’re not just acquiring a decorative item, but supporting the continuation of a meaningful cultural craft.
From a design perspective, this layered provenance makes Gabbeh rugs particularly attractive in spaces that celebrate storytelling, authenticity, and tactile beauty. Whether anchoring a modern open-plan room or adding soul to a heritage interior, these rugs carry a legacy of creativity, survival, and artistic expression—qualities that resonate as deeply today as they did centuries ago.
- Are Gabbeh rugs expensive?
The cost of a Gabbeh rug reflects a combination of craftsmanship, time investment, material quality, and cultural provenance. While they are generally more affordable than the most intricate classical Persian carpets, they are certainly an investment, particularly when compared to the price of mass-produced, machine-made rugs. But it is an investment that offers long-term value, both aesthetically and practically.
Each handmade Gabbeh can take several weeks to several months to complete, depending on its size, knot density, and design complexity. The use of high-quality wool and natural dyes further elevates the cost, but also the lifespan, making these rugs far more enduring than their synthetic counterparts. A well-cared-for Gabbeh can last for decades, often becoming softer and more nuanced with time, rather than deteriorating.
In terms of pricing, factors such as origin, the skill of the weaver, the dyes used, and even the specific tribal style can influence cost. Afghan Gabbehs, for instance, are often more accessibly priced than older Iranian pieces, while still offering superb quality and artistic merit.
For interior designers working within mid- to high-end projects, Gabbeh rugs present excellent value: they deliver not only visual and textural impact but also durability, sustainability, and narrative depth. For private clients, the emotional return on investment is often just as important—the satisfaction of owning something handmade, ethical, and beautiful.
At London House Rugs, we offer a carefully graded selection of Gabbeh carpets across a range of budgets, always handmade and always authentic. Whether you're sourcing for a contemporary flat, a country retreat, or a commercial space with soul, there's a Gabbeh in our collection to suit your needs—and elevate the space it occupies.
- Are Gabbeh rugs a good choice for modern interiors?
Gabbeh rugs are among the few traditional handmade carpets that translate effortlessly into modern interior design, thanks to their understated patterns, earthy palettes, and deeply textural surfaces. Their minimalist, often abstract aesthetic aligns naturally with contemporary styles, especially those that favour clean lines, natural materials, and a restrained approach to ornamentation.
At a glance, a Gabbeh may seem simple: a large field of colour punctuated by a subtle stripe, a singular tree motif, or a pair of stylised animals. But it is precisely this simplicity that gives these rugs their strength. In contemporary spaces—where architecture and furnishings tend toward sleek finishes and cool tonal ranges—a Gabbeh introduces warmth, variation, and a sense of grounding without competing for attention. Its hand-spun wool and organic dye variation add visual depth that machine-made modern rugs simply cannot achieve.
Interior designers often find these rugs invaluable in open-plan layouts, where defining distinct areas—such as a dining zone, a lounge, or a reading nook—is essential without using walls or furniture congestion. A large Gabbeh, with its soft tonal shifts and sculptural presence, delineates space while enhancing flow. In monochrome or minimalist interiors, it introduces natural imperfection—a counterbalance to overly polished or rigid design schemes.
For more eclectic or bohemian settings, Gabbeh rugs bring cohesion to layered textiles, antiques, or artisanal objects. Their tribal origin ensures that they hold their own amidst global or vintage collections, while their quiet modernity makes them ideal companions to mid-century furniture or Japandi-inspired decor.
Ultimately, a Gabbeh is more than a stylistic fit—it’s a way to add history, comfort, and narrative to a space that might otherwise feel impersonal or incomplete. Whether you're styling a London loft, a countryside retreat, or a Scandinavian-inspired flat, a Gabbeh rug lends soul and softness to even the most minimal design.
- How do I clean and maintain a Gabbeh rug?
One of the great advantages of a Gabbeh rug—especially for homes that balance beauty with practicality—is its low-maintenance nature. Thanks to the natural oils present in hand-spun wool, Gabbeh rugs have an inherent resistance to soiling, moisture, and odours. When cared for properly, they maintain their beauty for decades and even develop a soft sheen and richer tonal depth over time.
Regular vacuuming is key to keeping your Gabbeh in top condition. Use a suction-only vacuum (avoid rotating brush heads) once or twice a week, depending on foot traffic. This helps remove dust and debris that can settle deep into the pile, especially in thicker rugs. Be sure to vacuum both sides every few months, and gently lift the corners to check for trapped particles.
In the event of a spill, act quickly: blot (never rub) the area with a clean, absorbent cloth. If necessary, use a small amount of cold water mixed with a mild, wool-safe detergent. Because these rugs are made with natural dyes, it’s important not to over-wet or scrub the area, as this may cause colour bleeding. Allow the rug to dry flat and away from direct sunlight.
To maintain even wear, rotate the rug every 6 to 12 months, particularly in high-traffic areas like hallways or living rooms. Using a high-quality underlay is also strongly recommended—it protects the rug’s foundation, prevents slipping, and adds an additional layer of cushioning.
For a deep clean, Gabbeh rugs should be professionally washed by specialists who understand traditional wool construction. At London House Rugs, we offer a full cleaning and restoration service tailored specifically to hand-knotted rugs, ensuring your piece is treated with the care it deserves.
Unlike synthetic modern rugs, a well-cared-for Gabbeh does not degrade or lose its vibrancy—it matures. The longer you live with it, the more beautiful and personal it becomes, making proper maintenance not just a responsibility but a deeply rewarding part of ownership.
- Are Gabbeh rugs suitable for children or pets?
Absolutely. In fact, Gabbeh rugs are among the most family- and pet-friendly handmade carpets available, due largely to their soft pile, natural materials, and robust construction. Woven from 100% wool, they are inherently hypoallergenic, free from synthetic dyes or chemical treatments, and naturally flame-resistant—qualities that bring peace of mind to any home with young children or animals.
The thick, springy pile provides both comfort and protection. Children can sit or play on the surface without discomfort, and the dense wool offers a cushioning layer that softens falls and dampens sound—an invaluable feature in busy households or multi-level homes. Pets, too, tend to love the feel of wool underpaw, and because of the lanolin in the fibres, Gabbehs are remarkably resistant to absorbing odours or pet hair.
Accidental spills or messes are also easier to manage with wool. The fibres tend to repel liquid initially, giving you time to blot up spills before they soak in. With regular care and the use of a rug pad to stabilise the carpet, a Gabbeh can withstand the hustle of daily family life with far more grace than many delicate or synthetic alternatives.
In design terms, their forgiving patterns and tonal variations make Gabbehs ideal in homes that value both form and function. Whether in a nursery, playroom, or family living area, a Gabbeh contributes warmth, beauty, and practicality in equal measure.
For households that demand durability without compromising on visual integrity, Gabbeh rugs offer a rare combination: tactile luxury that’s tough enough for everyday life.
- How long do Gabbeh rugs last?
A well-made Gabbeh rug is not just a decorative item—it’s a long-term companion, built to last for decades, if not generations. Woven entirely by hand using durable, hand-spun wool and natural dyes, these rugs are created to withstand both daily use and the passage of time. When properly maintained, they grow more beautiful with age, softening in texture and deepening in tone, much like aged leather or patinated metal.
The secret to their longevity lies in both the materials and the method. Wool is an extraordinarily resilient fibre, capable of bouncing back from compression and resisting the wear that typically breaks down synthetic alternatives. The high lanolin content of the wool used in Gabbeh rugs not only repels dirt and moisture but also contributes to their pliability and strength. Even in high-traffic areas, these rugs retain their structure and colour for years with minimal degradation.
Their high, plush pile may show gentle signs of use over time, but rather than diminishing their appeal, this patina only enhances it. Just as you’d expect a vintage wooden floor to show subtle traces of life, a Gabbeh evolves with its environment, becoming a richer and more expressive part of your interior landscape.
For designers and homeowners alike, this durability makes Gabbeh rugs an ideal investment. Unlike machine-made rugs, which often begin to fray or fade after a few years, a Gabbeh remains a constant, grounding presence in a room. It can be moved from space to space, repurposed in new interiors, or passed down through generations. With regular care—vacuuming, rotation, and the occasional professional wash—a Gabbeh rug doesn’t just last. It becomes an heirloom.
- What are the typical colours and designs found in Gabbeh rugs?
Gabbeh rugs are celebrated for their unconventional beauty, which arises from their use of natural dyes and improvisational design. The typical Gabbeh palette is drawn from earth and plant-based sources, yielding rich, muted tones that reflect the landscape of their origins. Expect to find deep indigos, soft walnut browns, warm ochres, brick reds, and golden saffron—all colours that hold their warmth over time and integrate effortlessly into a wide range of interiors.
The designs themselves are often described as minimalist, but this belies their expressive depth. While traditional Persian rugs focus on symmetry and complexity, Gabbehs rely on intuition and symbolism. Motifs may include stylised trees of life, abstract animals, tribal emblems, or rows of primitive forms that feel almost modernist in their execution. Many pieces feature large colour fields broken by subtle shifts in tone—an effect caused by abrash, the natural variation that results from small-batch dyeing.
In more recent examples, especially those woven in Afghanistan, design interpretations range from structured geometric bands to free-form pictorial scenes. Some Gabbehs adopt a more graphic quality with a more modern feel, with bold rectangles or stripes, while others explore almost meditative compositions, allowing colour and texture to carry the narrative.
These characteristics make Gabbehs extraordinarily versatile from a design perspective. Their understated forms and natural hues provide an ideal base for interiors of many styles—whether rustic, Scandinavian, eclectic, or ultra-modern. In more decorative rooms, they act as a calm counterbalance. In contemporary environments, they provide all the texture and soul needed to avoid sterility.
For anyone curating a space that values authenticity and individuality, the variety of Gabbeh designs offers an opportunity to choose a rug that feels truly personal—a quiet visual anchor that tells a story while never demanding attention.
- Can Gabbeh rugs be used in high-traffic areas like hallways or living rooms?
Yes—Gabbeh rugs are particularly well suited to high-traffic areas, thanks to their robust construction and the natural performance properties of wool. Their thick, hand-knotted pile not only offers visual and tactile richness but also functions as a durable surface that withstands daily footfall with ease.
The dense knotting and resilient wool fibres give these rugs an impressive ability to absorb wear without quickly showing signs of fatigue. In a hallway, entrance, or busy living room, a Gabbeh will hold its shape, bounce back from compression, and remain visually appealing over time. Unlike synthetic rugs, which often flatten or fade quickly in such areas, a well-made Gabbeh will retain its colour, texture, and charm with just basic maintenance.
Because they are dyed with natural pigments, any fading that does occur tends to be gradual and uniform, adding a soft patina rather than uneven discolouration. This makes them an excellent choice for sunlit rooms or transitional spaces where rugs are often exposed to shifting light.
For designers working on practical yet stylish interiors, Gabbehs offer a rare blend of beauty and function. Their earthy tones hide dust and dirt remarkably well, while their wool content naturally resists soiling and moisture. In commercial settings like offices or boutique retail spaces, they can be used confidently to add warmth and comfort without sacrificing durability.
A rug pad is always recommended to provide extra grip, preserve the rug’s underside, and prevent sliding, especially in corridor settings. With this in place, a Gabbeh becomes an ideal solution for spaces that need both visual interest and everyday resilience.
- Why London House Rugs?
At London House Rugs, we specialise exclusively in handmade rugs—a distinction that defines everything we do. Our Gabbeh collection is the result of careful curation, a deep understanding of weaving traditions, and a dedication to offering clients pieces that are both visually captivating and structurally enduring.
We offer one of the UK's most comprehensive selections of Gabbeh rugs, ranging from traditional tribal styles with symbolic pictorial motifs to modern interpretations featuring bold colour blocks and minimalist compositions. Whether you're drawn to a rustic striped design evocative of Persian nomadic art or prefer the quiet sophistication of a contemporary Afghan weave, our collection has been selected to meet the needs of both heritage lovers and forward-thinking designers.
Unlike mass-market retailers, we source each rug directly from artisan workshops and long-standing weaving cooperatives—primarily in Afghanistan—where quality and authenticity remain at the forefront of production. Every rug we offer is hand-knotted using natural fibres, dyed with care, and made using techniques passed down through generations. We do not deal in machine-made or mass-produced alternatives.
For interior designers, our knowledge extends beyond the product. We understand how scale, proportion, tone, and texture interact within a space. Our team regularly works with architects, stylists, and homeowners to recommend rugs that enhance a room’s mood, materiality, and flow. For collectors and enthusiasts, we offer genuine insight into the rug’s origin, symbolism, and construction, allowing each client to make an informed and meaningful choice.
We also provide comprehensive support after purchase, including rug pads, professional cleaning, and in-house restoration services, ensuring your investment is cared for across its lifespan.
Choosing London House Rugs means choosing integrity, depth of knowledge, and uncompromising quality. With us, you don’t just buy a rug—you take home a piece of craftsmanship, culture, and quiet luxury that will continue to resonate in your space for years to come.