In a world where everything is mass-produced and made to be replaced, the value of handcrafted items – especially those made from natural materials that last over time – has never been more appreciated. And that goes double for rugs, which soften up a space and improve the auditory quality by absorbing sound. The good news: You don’t need to spend hours scouring flea markets and antique dealers IRL to find the vintage rug of your dreams. There’s actually a vast selection to be found online, and while the process is still likely to involve plenty of research and patience (these are rare, after all), you can find a one-of-a-kind piece without ever leaving your couch.
Here at Lawrence of La Brea, we take a lot of pride in our ability to foster the popularity of these pieces that bridge the gap between tradition and fashion, elegance, and interior design. That’s why our vintage rug collection is curated so carefully, and why our buyers and sellers are so carefully chosen – a combination of talent that’s hard to come by in today’s market.
The first thing to know about vintage rugs is that they’re not going to be perfect. While that’s a bummer for those who have a strict aesthetic, it’s actually something to be celebrated. Vintage rugs have patina, which adds character and a sense of history to any room they’re in. Plus, a few imperfections are just part of what makes them so charming and unique.
That’s why it’s important to do your homework before you start shopping, and to be clear with the seller about what condition a rug is in. It’s also a good idea to know if you’ll be able to return the rug if you decide it isn’t what you expected when you get it home.
As you dive into researching, here are a few of the sites we recommend to help narrow your search and find the vintage rug of your dreams:
1stDibs
At this time, they have more than 4,000 vetted sellers offering a variety of antique and vintage furniture, fine art, jewelry, and rugs. They offer price-match guarantees, buyer and fraud protection, and insured global delivery.
Vintage Carpets
Vintage rugs are a great way to add warmth and texture to a space, and while they may be more expensive than newer rugs, they’re also typically more durable. They’re designed to withstand years of wear and tear, and are often hand-knotted, so they’ll last far longer than most modern floor cloths. And they can be a more eco-friendly choice than buying a new rug, as they’re often made from recycled materials. vintage persian rugs