ShoparoundDragons, flowers, butterflies and fish prints are just some of the more unusual patterns to be found on new collections of rugs from Jan Kath available at Rug Art in Sandycove, Co Dublin.
The contemporary designer's trademark use of vibrant colour and distinctive patterns is present in the new Gamba range. We like the muted stripes of the Multiline rug and the charming daisies-on-grass effect of the little flowers green rug.
Using Tibetan highland wool these hand-tufted rugs are hand-knotted, carded and spun by hand in the Himalayan tradition resulting in rugs high in quality and durability. This, matched with the German designer's keen eye for contemporary design, makes for an eye-catching product.
Also new is the Dragon California range comprising wool and silk rugs with soft oriental-influenced dragon prints in pinks and reds as well as more neutral colours.
Prices for Jan Kath rugs range from €1,800 to €7,000 depending on components (100 per cent wool or silk), design and whether you go for 60, 80 or 100 knot per square inch.
Rug Art also carries the Vorwerk range of rugs. Hand tufted rugs in fresh tones of reds and yellows, this range is decidedly contemporary and prices start from around €1,350 for 1.7 metres by 2.4 metres. A smart abstract leaf print rug in muted tones is an elegant contemporary piece, while a brash pink and yellow floral rug is fun and funky.
A little less expensive is a range of hand-tufted rugs from New Zealand manufacturer Zeba with prices from around €1,000.
Specialising in exclusive contemporary rugs, Rug Art owner Conrad Lyons, who is a former accountant, says the market for good quality contemporary rugs in Ireland is significant. Once people see the depth of the colours achievable in these rugs they are won over and are prepared to pay the price for a rug that will stand the test of time, he says.
Some of the best Irish sittingrooms and leading hotels, including the Cavan Crystal Hotel, the Connemara Coast Hotel and the Tulfarris Country Club, are now home to Rug Art's wears.
Rug Art, 49a Sandycove Road, Sandycove, Co Dublin Tel: 01 2360126
