Retro Trends Set to Make a Comeback in 2015

5 Retro Trends Set to Make a Comeback in 2015

It’s hard not to notice how frequently trends that were once thought dead and buried come back into public favour. From yo-yo’s to sports cars, it’s always a surprise. But is there any way to predict what’s next? Well, we’ve taken a look around the web and concocted our final list of the top 5 retro trends that will make a comeback this year.

5. Diner-style kitchens

For a long time, the design of kitchens has been relatively static, in the sense that public tastes don’t change too often. But this year it seems one particular design might come back: the diner-style. Think of an American diner: booths, black and white chequerboard floors, vivid colours and maybe even a neon sign. Keep an eye out in 2015 to see this style in a kitchen near you.

4. Digital radios in a vintage style

Effortlessly merging the modern world with that of the past, a new trend for vintage-style radios with digital capability is already emerging. Brands such as Roberts are leading the way with radios that take design inspiration from classic 50s and 60s units, even going so far as to include padded cushions and leather trim. Whatever next?

3. 80s-style electronic pop music

Here’s one you’ve probably already have some experience of. The 80s is back in a big way when it comes to chart music. Artists such as Taylor Swift are wearing their influences on their sleeves, with every genre from pop to electro showing 80s traits through and through. So dust off those drum machines, there could just be an opportunity for you!

2. Cubist-inspired interior design

Cubism and geometric patterns are something we’re very familiar with here at Rugs Direct. Some of our most popular rugs feature a 60s-inspired design which is as colourful as it is intricate. So we’re not at all surprised that cubism is going to come back into the limelight in many areas of interior design. That also extends to modern art pieces too, so you’ll see all over the home.

1. 70s-inspired clothing

If you’ve still got a pair of bell-bottoms or perhaps a floral shirt somewhere in the back of your wardrobe, 2015 might just be your year. The 1970s are coming back during spring and summer with many pieces taking direct inspiration from the catwalks of that decade. Flared jeans, wide-collar shirts and vibrant colours all form part of this retro revival.

Which trends are you looking forward to in 2015? Let us know! And don’t forget to check out the latest rug trends in our online rug shop. 

Rugs; How are they Made?

How Rugs Are Made: What Is A Loom?

As one of the leading rug retailers in the UK, it’s very easy for us at Rugs Direct to assume that everyone knows the ins-and-outs of rug manufacture. But actually, in a world of mass production, it seems very few folks really know how rugs are made. With that in mind, in today’s blog post we’d like to explain what a loom is and its role in the creation of modern and traditional rugs.

The loom: a definition

In a nutshell, a loom is a mechanical device or tool that is used to tightly knit threads together in order to create a rug or other fabric-based object. Looms can be found in both manual and automatic forms, both of which share similar core concepts. It wasn’t until looms were able to be produced on a large scale that mass production of rugs became a real possibility. Without looms, we wouldn’t be here at all! Having said that, there is still a place for hand-woven and tufted rugs, many of which are selected due to their personal touch.

How do looms work?

A loom mechanically weaves two threads together to form the final piece. To do this, it interlaces the two threads at 90-degree angles. The horizontal threads are known as the weft, and these are pulled through the vertical threads, which as known as the warp. Most looms include a small device called a shuttle which actually guides the threads during the interlacing process. During Victorian times, mechanised looms included a flying shuttle, which allowed the weft to interlace the warp faster than any human being could.

How looms create patterns

In order to produce the intricate designs that you see on many modern and traditional rugs today, most large-scale looms will use a series of wires known as heddles. These heddles will hold the warp threads in certain places (usually either forward or back) in order to create the specific pattern required for that rug. Likewise, different coloured threads can be used as the weft or warp in order to create certain areas of the design in the correct colours. Large mechanised looms can have many hundreds of threads being woven at any one time – it really is quite a sight to behold!

If this quick guide to how a loom works has inspired you to find a new rug, you can check out our full range online. Or you call one of our friendly team on 0845 838 8638 anytime. 

Vintage Louis de Poortere Rugs, a new Year Renaissance

Are Vintage Rugs Having a New Year Renaissance?

If there's one area of interior design that's been a firm favourite in recent months, it's vintage. From classic television sets to quirky 60s-style furniture, the vintage aesthetic seems set to get even bigger in 2015. In fact, vintage rugs are one area of design that have already been gaining traction -- particularly with our customers here at Rugs Direct.

So to kick off the New Year with a bang, we thought we’d explore some of the best vintage rug options that you may be interested in including in your home this year. 

Young Urbanite Beetle Green Rug

If you’re looking to add a touch of 60s inspired chic to any room in your house, you can’t go wrong with this Young Urbanite Beetle Green vintage rug. Manufactured by well-known rug maker Louis De Poortere, this rug is made from the finest wool and chenille on wilton jacquard looms. This adds a subtle intricacy to a pattern which is already instantly eye-catching. This is a vintage rug that will bring true life and vitality to a room.

Multi Black & White Vintage Rug

Another rug from renowned designer Louis de Poortere, this Multi Black & White vintage rug takes us to the other end of the colour spectrum. Featuring a flatweave pile for a thinner yet more hard-wearing pile, the rug is a real exploration of details. Hemmed edges draw focus to the individual patterns on each of the squares that make up this vintage rug – giving it a unique ‘multiple personality’.

Heriz Perisian Pink Vintage Rug

Does this vintage rug even need any introduction? A real explosion of hot pink colour, it’s understandable that a design like this Heriz Perisian Pink vintage rug won’t fit every home. However, for the right person and in the right context, this beautiful pink vintage rug can really make an impression. A durable design with a 5mm flatweave pile, the vintage rug includes a hand-sewn finish for that extra personal touch that other vintage rugs can’t match.

If you’ve not yet made a decision on which interior design you’ll be exploring in 2015, why not start with a vintage rug? You can explore our full range of rugs in our online shop. Or, if you have any questions about vintage rugs or any of the other countless designs we have on offer, just call 0845 838 8638. And before we forget: Happy New Year! 

Rugs in your New Year's Resolutions

The 6 Most Common New Year's Resolutions for 2015

With the New Year now upon us, many of us have spent the last few days concocting our wishes for the year ahead. But what are the most common New Year’s resolutions, and which ones are also yours? Let’s find out…

6. To quit smoking

Cigarette smoking has dropped by over 30% in the last decade due to active campaigning and things like Stoptober, but it’s still a popular habit in the UK. It’s no surprise, then, that lots of folks want to spend 2015 kicking the habit and finally becoming a non-smoker.

5. To pay off existing debt

It’s not just smoking that’s a thorn in many of our sides – money can be too. And that’s why a lot of us are aiming to pay off as much debt as we can in the coming year and start to save. Whether that’s for travel, a new house, car or anything else – being debt-free is a goal many of us share.

4. To travel more

It’s a big world out there, and there’s a lot to see. For that reason and more besides, a lot of us will be choosing to travel more in 2015. And with fuel prices dropping to record lows, it looks like it’ll be more affordable than ever before.

3. To find a new job

If you’ve been a little bored or feeling stuck in your job, why not join the thousands of others with a resolution to find a new one? It can sometimes be a great wind of change in your life, and could set you on the path to true success. Of course, if you already have the job of your dreams – stay put!

2. To improve the interior décor of your home

Could your home do with a facelift? If so, you’re not alone. Many of us have set a resolution to improve the interior décor of our homes. That could be the wallpaper, design of the space, or even a simple addition of a quality rug (like those we sell in our shop at Rugs Direct). You might be surprised at what a difference a rug can make!

1. To get fit and lose weight

You probably saw this one coming, and that’s because it tops the resolution charts every year. With Christmas being a time to indulge and enjoy ourselves, January is often packed with joggers and gym-goers. If you fall under this umbrella, now is a great time to nab some deals on gym memberships – just make sure you use it!

Rugs Direct: 4 Surprising Interior Design Trends to Watch Out for in 2015

4 Surprising Interior Design Trends to Watch Out for in 2015

As we approach the dawn of a brand new year, many folks in the interior design world are looking forward to what 2015 will hold. Despite the fact that we’re still a few weeks away, there are still some solid indicators about the interior design trends we may be seeing next year. So let’s take a look at the most likely design trends we’ll be seeing in 2015… some of which may surprise you!

4. Salvaged and upcycled materials

This has been a trend that’s been on the up-and-up for a few years now, but it’s set to really explode next year: salvaged and upcycled materials. The concept of taking an old piece and giving it new life, or even including salvaged materials (like driftwood and railway sleepers), is really gaining some traction. Keep an eye out for the use of some unusual ornaments and statement pieces in lounges and living room in 2015.

3. Modern and traditional fusion

As we move toward the future, there are many interior designers who look to the past for inspiration. This is a great thing because it allows a fusion of both schools of design. For example, the very 1960s trend of using vivid block colours on walls is something that’s really coming back into style. But this design aesthetic is partnered with modern furniture and artwork, causing a juxtaposition that actually works very well.

2. Organic and natural themes

Both in the world of art and wall coverings, there’s been a resurgence in the popularity of designs that include natural elements. Don’t be surprised to see depictions of vines, flowers, trees and other natural forms both in the wall coverings and also in the design of furniture and so on. Bringing this natural touch to a modern room in 2015 is a great way to make a real impression.

1. Monochrome

Here at Rugs Direct, we’ve already seen some of the design trends for 2015 come to life in the form of rug designs. One of the most popular at the moment is anything in monochrome, such the Arte Espina Reflective Rugs. The blend of blacks, whites and greys can create a stark contrast in a room and it’s something that’s already generating buzz in interior design circles and consumers alike.

What are your top picks for the design trends of 2015? Don’t hesitate to let us know. You can call us on 0845 8388638 anytime or find out more about our design trends in our online shop. 

The Best Black and White Rugs

Monochrome in Your Home: The Best Black and White Rugs

If you’re looking for the latest in interior design trends, you can’t miss out on monochrome.

In fact, it’s not just limited to interiors: the monochrome colour scheme can be seen in fashion design, too. At Rugs Direct, we aim to offer the freshest and most in-demand designs, which is why we stock plenty of eye-catching black and white rugs for you to choose from. But with so much choice, how can you decide which black and white rug is the one for you? Well, with a view to helping you make a better decision, we’ve chosen a handful of our favourite monochrome rugs – so let’s make a start!

Tashen Black and White Rug

For real texture and true character, you can’t beat a Tashen black and white rug. With its unmistakeable chunky pile, this rug has been designed to really catch the eye. A peppering of black and white can be a superb focal point for any room in your home. These rugs are made from the finest 100% New Zealand wool, and are easily one of our top choices for black and white rugs. See this black and white rug in our shop.

Monochrome Black Grey rug

Fancy a splash of geometry in your home? Then this black and white rug should fit the bill perfectly. With a design that’s made up of irregularly placed squares and triangles, this is a truly monochrome rug from the masters at Arte Espina. Hand-tufted in China and made from espirelle, this is a hard-wearing black and white rug which is totally colour-fast. Find out more now.

Splash Elements Ivory Rug

Nobody creates black and white rug designs quite like Elements, and this Ivory Rug is living proof. The contemporary and head-turning design is quite literally impossible to miss, and that’s paired effortlessly with a soft but thick pile made from 100% wool. This is a black and white rug you can really be proud of – and it’s perfect for a modern home. Get yours today.

Football Rug

We couldn’t end this post without something for this kids – and this technically falls into the black and white rug category. A football rug through-and-through, and made by the well-known brand Arte Espina, this black and white rug is perfect for the footie fan in your life. Although we’d probably recommend it for children – unless you’ve got a big kid in your house! Learn more about this rug.

We hope we’ve inspired you to check out our range of black and white rugs, but if none of the above tick your boxes, you can find plenty more in our shop. If you have any questions, please contact our crack team of rug specialists on 0845 8388638.

New Rugs from Plantation Rug Co now Available at Rugs Direct

Rugs Direct are pleased to announce that the new 2014 ranges from Plantation Rug Co are now available to buy.

Visit Rugs Direct to view the new ranges.

Cubes for example, is a wonderful new range that would be a great addition to any living room.

Or Undecided? So is this Rug! Take a look at this wonderful new rug.

Bring Summer inside with a new Rug

As the sun shines and we look forward to what might be the hottest day of the year, we might be starting to open our doors or use rooms that haven't been used for a while. Maybe it is your first outing to the summer cottage.

Buying a Sisal rug can bring the outside in, well not literally. But it does make any room just feel that bit brighter and reminds ourselves of the summer holidays and it just seems to extend the room outside with the doors wide open.

They come in many sizes and colours so they will fit any room or decor. Why not take a look.

Linen / Red Sisal Rug

You can buy this and many other modern rugs online at www.rugsdirect.co.uk