Hey everyone! I have some super exciting news to share—I’m launching my first rug collection with Tisca, and it’s all set to debut around early 2025. I spent time in Romania this Spring where I teamed up with their talented textile engineer, Teodora, and their Romanian weavers along with meetings with Andreas Honer and Ines Riener. Watching them all work together as they guided me in this great education was such an eye-opener and helped me to take a deep dive into the art of rug making so that I can design an authentic, sustainable and beautiful collection from me to you.
Returning to the Tisca factory in Romania after so many years was an experience I’ll never forget – the last time was with a group of bloggers before the pandemic. This trip, and the last, highlighted once again how design is really all about people, the makers, the designers, the people we are making for. Design comes from within and then can radiant outwards – always. Design is about intuition and what feels right, not just following trends or thinking about what might sell.
This process at Tisca, for me, is all about creating rugs that I genuinely love and would want in my own home and that are made along with weavers who intricately understand the process and are weaving their heart into each and every rug.
Romania’s rich cultural heritage and long-standing tradition in textile craftsmanship makes it the perfect place for this creative journey. The energy in the factory was so good to see again… Last time (2019) I wasn’t at Tisca designing prototypes with Teodora; I was learning and soaking in the detailed techniques that go into each woven piece for content creation.
Seeing the precision and dedication of the all-female team of artisans was incredibly inspiring then and now. Their focus as I observed them at work reminded me of the beauty and heart that handmade crafts embody. It’s amazing how handmade objects connect us, weaving in the feelings and lives of the very women who create them.
Rugs have always held a special place in my heart. I’ve explored the souks of Morocco and the bazaars in Turkey, and I used to hunt for vintage and antique rugs at the Brimfield market every year in Massachusetts where I am from. I was especially fond of ABC Carpet + Home in New York City, where I visited on several occasions in my early blogging days to admire the designs of Madeline Weinrib. Meeting her when I started decor8 was a highlight for me, and I was so happy when she agreed to contribute a quote for my first book, Decorate.
Rugs are so much more than something soft to walk on; they’re the foundation of a room. A well-made rug can last for decades, becoming a cherished part of your home’s story. They add warmth, comfort, and a unique style to any space, making it cozy and inviting. There’s nothing quite like the feel of a quality rug underfoot—it’s both soothing and luxurious.
Plus, rugs can help save on heating bills by adding an extra layer of insulation to your floors and act as a sound buffer, which is great for apartment living.
The upcoming Holly Becker collection for Tisca is really special to me. My design approach is always intuitive, and I want this collection to be enduring and sustainable. I want it to look and feel handmade and natural, with craftsmanship at its core.
For me, the first step in the design process, after understanding first the technical/manufacturing component, is to tap into the mood that I want to bring to a space — the vibe that resonates with me, that I know others would benefit from. Once that’s established, the space naturally evolves to support that energy and lifestyle. The process becomes largely intuitive and organic.
This collection is a reflection of that philosophy. Each rug isn’t just a product; it’s a carefully crafted piece designed to enhance the mood and feel of any room. I aim to blend traditional craftsmanship into sustainable, natural modern design, all guided by my intuitive approach to creating warm and inviting spaces. Slow living. I wish for my new collection of rugs to bring you as much joy to your home as designing them have brought to me during this wonderful journey with Andreas, Ines, Teodora and their all-female team of weavers.
Together, the aim is to bring comfort, quality, and beauty to your home, with cozy vibes and a story behind each rug in the collection. Just wait—you’ll see each rug’s little story soon.
I’m beyond excited to share the process behind the collection with you over the coming months. Thank you for being part of this incredible adventure with me. Your support and enthusiasm mean the world to me, and I can’t wait to share more in the months ahead, including two special launch parties that we’ll have in Germany – with one my “heimat” of Hannover where I live.
Stay tuned!
Holly
Photography: Agata Dimmich