In COVER 77, we delved into the origins of ‘Rug Your Life’, a rug brand founded by Nayla Ventura. Since it was established fifteen years ago, a key pillar of the company has been a commitment to involving the client in every step of the creative process, resulting in pieces that align with each individual’s subjective understanding of ‘home’. Read our extended interview with Ventura below.
What was your first encounter with rugs and textiles and how did it lead you to create Rug Your Life?
Growing up in Barcelona surrounded by art, history, and beautiful materials shaped my appreciation for design. Our home had etched Art Nouveau glass and painted floor tiles. My grandparents, who were tailors and devoted art collectors, worked with the finest fabrics and filled their home with paintings. My elegant, refined other grandparents and a great-aunt who was a textile designer further inspired me. Though my academic path was business-oriented, creating a cozy nursery for my daughter and wanting to add in all these elements that meant ‘home’ to me led me to founding Rug Your Life nearly fifteen years ago.
Where is your production and how did you manage to set it up?
Our rugs are entirely handmade in India and Nepal. Initially, I connected with Rugmark, which introduced me to some of their certified fair-trade suppliers. Now, we collaborate with multiple suppliers, selecting based on the specific weaving technique and material needed for each project. Over time, these partnerships have developed into trusted, almost friendship-like relationships.
How would you describe the company’s output? What kind of designs, materials and qualities do you use?
We produce bespoke, high-quality, handcrafted rugs that blend artistry with exceptional craftsmanship. The designs we use vary as much as the clients‘ styles do, so they go from very minimalistic to greatly intricate. In terms of materials, we use mostly New Zealand and semi-worsted wool, as well as linen, nettle, tencel, silk, and mohair. We primarily work with the 150 kpsi Tibetan hand-knotted qualities.
What is the underlying ethos of Rug Your Life and how do you see your company standing out from the crowd?
At Rug Your Life, we merge art, craftsmanship, and storytelling to create custom, handmade rugs that embody each client’s vision and personality. We focus on meaningful connections, listening deeply to transform ideas into refined, bespoke designs. Our approach celebrates collaboration, from ideation to the final touch, ensuring a luxury experience tailored to every detail. Emphasizing traditional weaving and sustainable practices, we pair high-quality materials with ethical production, making each rug a unique blend of art and function. This dedication positions us as a standout, trusted partner in luxury interiors.
How do you select the artists (old and new) whose designs you work with?
The fine artists of the Bauhaus and 20th century whose works we translate into rugs were chosen for their public domain status and their suitability for woven interpretations that honor the original art. The contemporary artists we collaborate with came to Rug Your Life through a blend of serendipity and intention. Some approached us with a vision to transform their designs into rugs, while others were handpicked for their artistic style, which we knew would captivate our interior design clients and shine as unique woven pieces.
Do you have a favourite rug from your inventory?
I have clearly two favourite rugs that we made, but neither is in our inventory! The very first rug, made for my baby daughter based on a picture her dad had painted as a little boy; and the rug we created after my son’s art when he was five. From our available collection, choosing a favorite would be difficult, but I’m drawn to pieces inspired by Sophie Taeuber-Arp or Annie and Jonathan Zawada.
Are you clients local or international? What kind of spaces have you made rugs for?
Very international! We are now based in Germany, but were in Hong Kong for several years, and I am from Spain. Interestingly though, many of our clients come from the United States and United Kingdom. Our rugs are typically made for residential spaces, such as living rooms and master bedrooms, though we’ve also had the pleasure of crafting pieces for boutique hotels. Designing for these projects is especially rewarding, as it allows us to tell a more expansive story through a series of unique, connected rugs.
What do you see clients going for at the moment, in terms of colours, designs, materials?
I’m thrilled to see the design world embracing natural, durable, and biodegradable materials—it’s the right direction. The shift from all-beige to bold designs and rich earthy tones is refreshing. Asymmetry and fluid compositions now reflect personal tastes over traditional patterns, celebrating creativity and uniqueness. This evolution aligns beautifully with our commitment to unique, custom pieces and truly delights my rug-loving heart.
What are your dreams for the company going forward? Do you have aspirations for how it will develop?
I envision Rug Your Life continuing to elevate countless homes in the future, inspiring people to cherish their personal stories, preferences, and spaces. My wish is for everyone to celebrate their uniqueness with rugs that truly reflect what they love. I see our company as the future reference for meaningful, luxurious rugs that seamlessly blend authentic craftsmanship with individual artistic expression.
