A rug can breathe life into a room, and allow an otherwise simple room to assume a new elegance and vibrancy. When seeking environmentally friendly, artfully designed rugs, African Rugs provide an excellent solution.
The rugs are frequently earthen-toned with black elements. The most popular designs are zebra, cheetah, giraffe, and leopard prints, and add a high visual impact to a surface. It is important to note when pairing these items that patterned furniture will most likely not blend well with this dramatic statement. Some rug makers are blending the traditional diamond-shaped layout of Persian rugs with animal print from Africa inside the diamonds. This allows for an elegant statement, and is has greater flexibility for matching furniture. Other rugs use African animal print themes as a large border around a solid interior. This is an excellent way to accent the perimeter of the rug, but not detract from the overall serenity of a room. As some of these African inspired rugs are not originally African in production, the prices start very low for mass merchandised options. A smaller area rug starts around $30, whereas larger, higher quality rugs may be upwards of $500.
Other design patters are vignettes of the flora and fauna of the savannah. A rug may be devoted entirely to a depiction of one type of branch or leaf, or a series of different potions of the vegetation may be displayed in an almost quilt-like pattern of squares. The coloring for this style of rug is much more varied. Anywhere from bright reds to muted beiges are available, in a variety of sizes.
For a truly original rug, many local African artisans are hand making brightly colored rugs that resemble paintings in design. Some depict a group of women dancing, others a farmer working in his fields, and others appear to be representations of the wildlife itself. It is not uncommon for these highly ornate rugs to be used as a wall tapestry as well; the hand-made rugs may be slightly thinner in design than African inspired rugs commercially made entirely for floor application. Pricing for these items varies by the local artisan and ease of import. Realistically, the consumer should expect to pay a minimum of $100 for handcrafted African rugs.
For those seeking a truly African experience, Zebra skins and other exotic animal hides may be obtained as a rug. It is important to ensure when securing this type of rug that a reputable dealer is selected. The dealer should be working with the local government to ensure the pelt was obtained during a government approving culling of the heard, and is not the result of poaching of other illegal activities. Prices for these items are high, and rarely start at less than $2000. It is also important to remember when importing an exotic animal skin that there may be more difficulties in going through customs.
African rugs are sure to make a bold statement in any room. By selecting the perfect location, working to ensure it matches the rooms’ décor, and accessorizing appropriately, you can provide a highly energized ambience to your room today.