Interior design in the UK is evolving in exciting ways, and nowhere is that more evident than on the floor. Rugs are no longer treated as finishing touches but as central design elements that set the mood and define the narrative of a space. At London Persian Rug Company, we’ve noticed a growing appetite among interior designers for pieces that combine cultural depth with contemporary relevance. The antique Persian rug, alongside other traditional Persian rugs, has become a key player in modern interiors – bringing texture, artistry, and timeless character into projects that balance luxury with individuality.
One of the strongest current trends in luxury design today is a renewed love for texture. Interior designers are seeking rugs that do more than decorate; they must transform the feel of a space. Chunky, high-pile, and even shaggy rugs are being incorporated into sleek interiors to create warmth and tactile appeal. These pieces not only provide comfort underfoot but also enhance the acoustics of a room, making them especially valuable in London apartments and townhouses where open-plan living is popular. For designers focused on delivering atmosphere as well as aesthetics, a luxury rug with a bold textural presence is increasingly indispensable.
Another defining trend is the appreciation of heritage and authenticity. Interior designers are increasingly looking for pieces that embody history and artisanal skill, which is why the demand for antique Persian rugs is so strong. These rugs carry with them a sense of faded elegance – the gentle wear of time that adds character and refinement. They work beautifully in both traditional and contemporary settings, softening sharp architectural lines with a sense of story and timelessness.
Within this trend, the traditional Persian rug remains unparalleled. Known for their intricate motifs and medallion designs, Persian rugs such as those from Heriz, Kashan, or Isfahan are celebrated for their artistry. Designers are using them as focal points, pairing their rich reds, indigos, and creams with contemporary furniture to create spaces that are both luxurious and inviting.
While many designers are embracing deep textures, there is also a movement towards sleek, flat-woven rugs such as Kilims and Dhurries. These Luxury Rugs are valued for their practicality – they are lighter, easier to maintain, and often feature bold geometric designs that resonate with modernist and Scandinavian interiors. For designers working on projects where functionality must balance with elegance, flat-woven rugs provide the perfect solution. Their understated aesthetic allows other design elements to shine, while still contributing colour and pattern to a room.
Design trends are often cyclical, and we are now witnessing a return of maximalism, particularly in the form of wall-to-wall carpets and large statement rugs. This movement embraces boldness – layering colour, pattern, and texture to create spaces that feel immersive and indulgent. In this context, antique Persian rugs and traditional rugs provide grounding, adding historical weight to otherwise exuberant schemes. Their intricate designs and strong palettes complement the maximalist approach, while their artisanal origins ensure that the overall look remains sophisticated rather than overwhelming.
Alongside texture and maximalism, another notable theme is a return to nostalgic comfort. Designers are turning to rugs that evoke warmth and familiarity, often through rich colour palettes and expressive detailing. This is particularly evident in the renewed popularity of Oriental and Persian styles. A Persian rug with deep red tones, intricate floral motifs, or geometric medallions brings a sense of coziness while still exuding elegance.
Interior designers are finding that these rugs pair beautifully with modern rustic schemes, country homes, or even industrial London lofts where their ornate patterns soften raw materials like concrete and steel. In every setting, the rug becomes a bridge between old and new, offering both personality and polish.
The rug trends shaping 2025 highlight a dual story: bold new textures meeting the enduring elegance of heritage weaving. For interior designers, this isn’t simply about decoration – it’s about crafting a foundation that communicates sophistication and authenticity. A plush luxury rug might deliver comfort, while an antique Persian carpet anchors a room with history, and a traditional Persian runner infuses it with artistry.
At London Persian Rug Company, our curated collection allows designers to access pieces that don’t just complement a room – they transform it. For projects that aspire to inspire, the right rug isn’t an accessory, it’s the signature.
