The power of a rug is undeniable. With the ability to transform a room in an instant, it makes sense that they've long been relied on to tie a design together.
Although rug trends change every year, many vintage styles have long been cherished for their character and charm. From the world-renowned Persian rug to the classic Berber style from Morocco, these long-established patterns have stood the test of time for a reason.
Whether you want to refresh your living room rug ideas with color and pattern or add timeless charm through decorating with vintage, designers agree – these four vintage rug patterns are their forever favorites.
1. Persian
Persian rugs are often at the top of carpet trends. Despite being one of the longest-established rug styles, it continues to prove popular with interior designers everywhere.
Evelina Juzėnaitė, Principal Interior Designer at Planner 5D, explains, 'Currently, the most popular style is Persian. It’s symmetrical, with repeating motifs. It’s popular because of its historical depth (it has been around for centuries), visual balance (interesting symmetrical patterns), adaptability (patterns and colors can be selected to suit different interior styles), as well as quality and durability (it’s handmade, dense, and wear-resistant).'
Plenty of Persian rug patterns are popular, namely Tabriz, known for its intricate patterns, Kashan, famous for its unique floral medallions, and the ever-popular Heriz for its geometric weave.
While some rug colors are going out of style in 2025, the enduring character of Persian patterns makes them an easy choice for any interior. Evelina advises, 'Let the carpet be the base (it can be neutral, but also bright like blue, green, or red). To make the carpet the focal point, the entire interior should be neutral rather than bright or vice versa. Since the carpet patterns are very active and numerous, I recommend that other surfaces be more minimalistic.'
As part of our Better Vintage series, we explore why vintage Persian rugs will always prove utterly timeless.
Vibrant and joyful, this timeless antique Sarouk is a classic example of one of the most popular types of Persian rugs. With a warm red base and intricate floral patterns, it'll enwrap a room in luxury.
Striking in composition, this early 20th century Persian rug will transform a one-dimensional space into an accomplished scheme. Don't shy away from its bold pattern, it'll bring life into any room and act as the perfect focal point.
Woven in a deep pink thread, this vintage persian rug is hard to resist. With its ornate border and classic colorway, it's a timeless style that will give any hallway or kitchen depth and warmth.
2. Moroccan
Folk flatware rugs might be trending, but the enduring appeal of vintage Moroccan rugs will never go away. Perhaps one of the most recognizable rug styles, it's hard to imagine the classic style falling out of favor.
Molly O'Neil, founder of interior design firm and decor shop Molly O Interiors, explains, 'They will never go out of style. The craftsmanship and designs are classic. You can feel the history and rug-making knowledge passed down through generations with each rug. I love the wide variety of designs and colors available, which means you can always find a good vintage Moroccan rug for any space. The Moroccan designs can also go with any decor, from traditional to modern.'
She adds, 'They add warmth and texture to any room, which is why I love vintage Moroccan rugs when I am designing a bedroom that I want to be cozy. I love a four-poster bed loaded with pillows, a sofa at the foot of the bed, and a vintage Moroccan rug to add color and a print to the room.'
With its bold geometric weave, this Moroccan hand-knotted rug is hard to resist. It's classic yet playful and will give any room a distinctive edge.
This checkerboard-style Moroccan rug is perfect if you're looking for a more subdued look. Placed in a bedroom, it will give your space an irresistible, cozy and soft feel.
This distinctive Moroccan rug features a classic geometric pattern. Woven with cream and dark brown thread, it's a striking yet sophisticated choice for a living room.
3. Medallion
Derived from Persian styles, the Medallion style is a classic floor covering with a historic past. In fact, you'll often see medallions featured on living room rug ideas. You can easily spot one due to its distinctive circular pattern at the center. Often, these rugs are heavily stylised and feature intricate floral borders.
Jen Baxter, founder of Baxter Hill Interiors, explains, 'I love a medallion or repeating floral design – it has an enduring quality with a sense of heritage. There’s something timeless and familiar about the rhythm of those delicate symmetrical blooms. It's a strong, but calm, pattern that introduces some movement without overwhelming a space.'
Jen suggests opting for a more minimalist approach when incorporating a medallion rug in your scheme. 'Pairing a soft, vintage-style rug with clean architectural lines and natural materials – letting a classic pattern ground a contemporary space and bring a sense of balance and quiet contrast. '
This Persian wool rug is a classic style that features a striking medallion at its center. Its subdued colors make it a timeless accessory that's surprisingly easy to style.
With its subdued color palette and triple medallion pattern, this heirloom rug will ground any scheme. Whether you pair it with contemporary or traditional decor, it's a classic transitional piece you can't beat.
One-of-a-kind in design, the Demitria wool rug is striking and unique. Its double medallion design will give any room a sense of accomplishment.
4. Oushak
A historic style that dates back to the fifteenth century, the Oushak rug is a traditional Turkish floor covering characterized by its large-scale floral and geometric pattern, muted colors, and plush pile.
Interior designer Adina Hall says, 'Oushak-inspired rugs will always stand the test of time. They’re known for their large, stylized motifs, muted and warm color palettes, and soft, luxurious feel. Each is hand-knotted from high-quality wool, reflecting Turkish artistry and geometric influences that blend beautifully with both traditional and contemporary interiors.'
I love using an Oushak to anchor a room with warmth and quiet depth. In this dining room, the indigo Oushak grounds the space, adding richness to the modern white oak banquette and sculptural leather chairs. It brings a sense of history and handcrafted tradition that complements the clean, modern forms perfectly. It gave us the perfect roadmap for layering color and texture in the space.'
Despite edging on the more neutral side, this antique area rug is by no means bland. Its intricate floral design makes it an elegant choice for a living room, study or hallway.
Featuring a pale blue, green, and pink, this delicate Oushak is charmingly nostalgic. Place it at the heart of your living room for a dose of subtle color.
Unique in pattern, this striking Oushak feels refreshingly contemporary. Its pastel color palette makes it an uplifting and whimsical choice for any room, whether that be at the heart of a living room or tucked under a dining table.
Decorating with antiques and vintage items will always bring beautiful character into the home. The timeless elegance of many vintage rugs means they will always stand the test of time, continuing to add depth, character, and that all-important lived-in charm to a space.
