Founded in 2004, The Rug Maker established itself as Singapore’s authority on bespoke rugs. Since then, the rug atelier has become the go-to name for interior designers and architects seeking to put that coveted personal touch on the floor scape of spaces they design. The Rug Maker’s creations have also padded the gleaming floors of numerous properties across the region. Earlier this year, The Rug Maker debuted The Straits Collection (a series of exquisitely flamboyant rugs reinvented from the rich Peranakan culture) to popular reception.

Forward Thinking with a Sentimental Value
“We are reinventing the Peranakan artistic style as the culture develops into the modern world,” says Freddy Khong, The Rug Maker’s co-founder. He adds, “Moving on is as important as looking back.” The Straits Collection takes visual cues from the details of the ornate artefacts and personal effects of the Peranakan people dating back as early as the 15th century. Taking 18 months to complete, the collection is an irresistible vista of vibrant Peranakan colours and symbolism viewed through contemporary lenses. The lively colours appeal to clients across generations.  

The Magnificent Six
The six rugs in the collection tells the journey across the continent and seas, to a new land, to adapt and adopt. The Traveller I features familiar abstraction of maps with a touch of edge; earthy and terracotta tones paired with cool blues. The Beginnings symbolises the assimilation of Chinese culture with Malay and European influences in the harmonious texture blend of blue, magenta, and red while Entwine symbolises the said assimilation flourishing with floral sprays and fruit-bearing stems derived from batik designs. Looking at once vintage and contemporary is Pastime, where white geometrical patterns derived from Cheki, the Malaccan card game popular with the nyonyas of the old, meets light blue background and specks of reds. And who wouldn’t stop to admire the art-nouveau tiles of a Peranakan kitchen? In Abundance such patterns are rendered in flirty blues and magentas. Arguably the most distinctive decorative motifs favoured by the nyonya wares, the majestic phoenix and resplendent peonies adorn Rebirth for supreme beauty, grace and fertility.

Limited only by Your Requirements
The Straits Collection comes in a standardised two-by-three-metre size, and are made from high quality New Zealand Wool and Viscose. True to its roots as a custom rug atelier, the collection is also available in customised sizes. With all the research and fine craftsmanship involved with its creation, this collection offers modern homeowners a rare chance to pay tribute to the best of local culture while still staying in trend.