01
What Is a Kilim?
A kilim is woven, not knotted. The coloured wool threads run back and forth through the warp threads and form the pattern directly in the weave. There is no pile, so a kilim is flat, thin and noticeably lighter than a hand-knotted rug of the same size.
This technique has a long tradition in Iran, Turkey and Central Asia. Modern kilims keep the craft but often use calmer colours, larger geometric fields or freer compositions, which makes them easy to combine with today’s furniture.
02
Why Choose a Modern Kilim?
Kilims are practical rugs for everyday life. Because they are flat, chairs slide easily over them and doors open without catching, which makes them a good choice under dining tables and in entrance areas. They are easy to roll up, take with you when you move or store in summer. Many kilims can be used on both sides.
At the same time, they are an affordable way into handmade rugs: small pieces start at under €100, and most of our kilims cost considerably less than a hand-knotted rug of the same size.
03
The Styles in Our Collection
Our range is divided into five subcategories.
Modern Design
Modern Design kilims are the largest group, with more than 300 available pieces. They come from Pakistan, Iran and Turkey and include our KILIM, KANDOU and HARAZ lines. Sizes range from about 84 × 81 cm to 435 × 356 cm, including runners for hallways. Most are multicoloured; there are also blue, beige, red, grey and yellow pieces.
Kilim Sofre
The name of our Sofre kilims comes from the Persian word sofreh, the cloth traditionally spread out for meals. These are compact pieces, from about 81 × 79 cm to 222 × 125 cm, mostly from Turkey and some from Iran. They are usually multicoloured and work well beside a bed, in a reading corner or as a wall hanging. Prices start at around €170.
Kilim Kiasar
Our Kiasar kilims are new pieces, almost all woven in Iran. They come in larger formats, from about 143 × 108 cm up to 401 × 317 cm, and mostly in calm beige, grey and blue tones. This makes them a good choice for living rooms and under large dining tables.
Kilim Dastan
Dastan means “story” in Persian. Our Dastan kilims come mainly from Turkey and Iran and show expressive, often multicoloured or red designs. Sizes range from small pieces of about 55 × 53 cm to around 282 × 202 cm, so you will find both accents and room-sized rugs.
Kilim Jajim
Jajim is a traditional Iranian flatweave that is woven in narrow strips and then sewn together. Our small selection includes older pieces from the first half of the 20th century, in sizes of about 2.2 to 2.75 metres.
04
Kilims in Your Home
In a minimalist or Scandinavian room, a kilim in beige or grey adds texture without dominating. A colourful Dastan or Sofre piece brings life to plain walls and light wooden floors. Our articles on modern living and the boho style show how to combine kilims with different furniture.
For hallways, choose a runner; under a dining table, the rug should be large enough for the chairs to stay on it when pulled out. If you like the casual look of a kilim but prefer a soft pile underfoot, take a look at our Gabbeh rugs.
05
Care and Practical Tips
Kilims are easy to care for. Vacuum them regularly without a rotating brush and shake out smaller pieces now and then. Turn the kilim occasionally so that it wears evenly. Because kilims are thin and light, we recommend a non-slip rug pad on smooth floors. For deeper cleaning, use a professional rug cleaner rather than a washing machine.
06
Personal Advice and Our Showroom
07
Frequently Asked Questions About Modern Kilims
Short answers to the questions we hear most often.
What is the difference between a kilim and a rug?
A kilim is a flatweave without pile: the pattern is created by weaving the coloured threads through the warp. A classic rug is hand-knotted and has a pile. Kilims are therefore thinner, lighter and usually less expensive.
Are kilims suitable for high-traffic areas?
Yes. Wool kilims are hard-wearing and, because they are flat, well suited to hallways, entrances and dining areas. Use a non-slip pad on smooth floors.
Can a kilim be used on underfloor heating?
Generally yes. Thanks to their thin structure, kilims let heat through better than thick pile rugs.
How do I clean a kilim?
Vacuum without a rotating brush, shake out small pieces and have the kilim professionally cleaned when needed. Do not put it in the washing machine.
Which kilim size do I need?
In the living room, the front legs of the sofa should rest on the kilim; under a dining table, the chairs should stay on it when pulled out. Our team is happy to help you choose.
