Detail english 2015-11-12

∂ 2015 ¥ 6 Flooring 617
Contemporary twist on traditional flatweave makes a statement on the stairs
Roger Oates offers a bespoke colour service
whereby any of the existing designs in
its wool flatweave collection can be customised
by choosing from the exclusive palette
of fresh, modern colours developed for the
company’s own use or, if a particular colour
is required, it can be specially dyed. Flatweave
was a relatively humble style of narrow,
woven runner from earlier centuries
and has inspired textile designers Roger
and Fay Oates to focus on reinventing, designing
and producing this very specific
type of floor covering to create a timeless
look that is suited to both classic and contemporary
interiors.
With its robust, durable construction and
finished selvedge edge making it a good
choice for stairs, flatweave can also be
joined to create distinctive rugs and fitted
landings. Its flexible, supple nature enables
it to be fitted and sculptured around almost
any winders with the stripes perfectly
aligned, says the company.
The rugs and runners are woven on vintage
looms using British wool which is spun and
dyed in Yorkshire, and designed and handfinished
in Herefordshire. Unlike pile carpet
that has an even, uniform feel, flatweave has
a texture that lends a unique character and
personality to a floor.
For bespoke projects the design team works
closely with clients to create the right colour
balance then, once the design is approved,
a 35 x 35 cm sample is woven on a hand
loom. The service is priced individually and
varies according to the length, design and
colours chosen. The runners are also available
in customised widths for wider or narrower
staircases. A minimum order length
applies to all bespoke work.
Pictured above is Cluny, a minimal symmetrical
stripe design inspired by old French
linen, and currently available in denim, raspberry
and smoke, as shown on the console
in the centre of the left-hand image. For a
recent bespoke project in a family home it
was recoloured in two ways, both of them
asymmetrical, giving the design a new balance
when fitted on the stairs.
The result offers a riot of pink with fine lines
of vibrant colour on the upper flight, and a
restrained sophistication in yellow and grey
on the lower flight, as seen top, centre. The
design in pink was also made up into a rug
(above, right). The Roger Oates range now
comprises the 100 % wool runners, rugs in
100 % wool and Tapis D’Avignon wool felt
for living rooms, halls and bedrooms, wallto-wall
100 % wool fitted floor coverings and
stair rods and brackets.
¥ Roger Oates
United Kingdom
+44 (0)20 7351 2288
www.rogeroates.com