Last updated on August 17th, 2023 at 05:55 am
When it comes to home decor, one of the most impactful and versatile accessories is a good rug. And when it comes to rugs, Moroccan styles are definitely trending right now. Four of the most popular Moroccan rug designs are Boujad, Beni Ourain, Azilal, and Beni Mrirt rug. About the Mrirt Moroccan rugs we already took our time to talk about them here, the same as about the differences between the Azilal and Beni Ourain rugs.
Moroccan rugs have exploded in popularity over the last decade, and for good reason – they’re beautiful, unique, and add a touch of global sophistication to any space.
Handwoven by skilled artisans in Morocco using traditional techniques that have been passed down for generations, these rugs come in a wide range of designs, colors, and patterns.
There’s something about Moroccan rugs that just feels special – perhaps it’s the rich cultural history behind them or the intricate details that go into each handcrafted piece.
But with so many different types of Moroccan rugs out there, it can be hard to know where to start.
Boujad vs Beni Ourain Rugs: Exploring the Differences
An Overview of Boujad Rugs
Boujad meaning: The term “Boujad” does not have a direct translation in English as it refers to a specific place and style in Morocco.
Boujad rugs originate from the small city of Boujad in Khouribga Province in Morocco’s Atlas Mountains. These rugs are handmade by Berber women using 100% wool from local sheep.
Boujad pronunciation: [Bou-jahd], the first syllable “Bou” is pronounced like the word “boo” but with a shorter “oo” sound. The second syllable “jad” is pronounced like “zhad” with a soft “zh” sound, similar to the “s” sound in the English word “measure.”
Boujads are known for their bold colors and playful patterns – hues like pink, orange, and turquoise feature prominently in these designs. Many boujads also feature geometric shapes like diamonds or triangles.
Their unique character makes them perfect for adding some bohemian charm to any room in your home.
And due to their durable construction with thick wool fibers tightly woven together by hand-knotting techniques passed down through generations gives them a long-lasting appeal prized by collectors worldwide.
An Overview of Beni Ourain Rugs
Beni Ourain rugs originate from the Beni Ourain tribes of Morocco, specifically from the Atlas Mountains. Like the vintage Boujad rug, Beni Ourain rug is also handmade by Berber women using 100% wool.
Unlike Boujad rug, however, Beni Ourain has a more neutral color palette – typically ivory or cream with black or brown geometric designs. These minimalist rugs are perfect for adding some texture and warmth to modern spaces.
The popularity of Beni Ourain rugs among interior designers shows no signs of slowing down. It’s not hard to see why – their subdued color scheme and simple designs make them a versatile addition to any room in your home.
Similarities and differences between Boujad and Beni Ourain
| Beni Ourain Rugs | Boujad Rugs | |
|---|---|---|
| Origin | Beni Ourain tribes of Morocco, specifically from the Atlas Mountains | Boujad, Khouribga Province in Morocco’s Atlas Mountains |
| Construction | Handmade by Berber women using 100% wool | Handmade by Berber women using 100% wool |
| Color Palette | Typically ivory or cream with black or brown geometric designs | Bold colors such as pink, orange, and turquoise |
| Design Style | Minimalist with simple geometric designs | Playful patterns with geometric shapes like diamonds or triangles |
| Versatility | Versatile addition to any room, especially modern spaces | Adds bohemian charm to any room |
| Durability | Durable construction with long-lasting appeal | Long-lasting appeal due to tightly woven thick wool fibers |
| Popularity among designers | A versatile addition to any room, especially modern spaces | Prized by collectors worldwide |
The Bold and Beautiful Boujad Rugs
What is a Boujad Rug?
Boujad rugs are named after the small town of Boujad in Morocco, where they originated. These rugs have been handcrafted by Boujad tribe for many generations.
The Berber tribes (Amazigh) are pastoral people who have lived in North Africa for thousands of years. They produce some of the most beautiful and intricate handmade rugs in the world.
Boujad rugs have a unique history because they were created during a time when rug-making was not common. The art was passed down from generation to generation, with each successive group adding its own unique elements to the tradition.
Characteristics and Design Elements
The colors used in Boujad rugs are bold, and vibrant, and often include shades such as reds, pinks, oranges, blues, greens, and purples.
One characteristic that distinguishes Boujad rugs is their use of geometric motifs and abstract patterns which may include diamonds or triangles. One can also notice how rich these rugs are with texture; some have wool fibers woven into them while others incorporate camel hair or goat hair fibers which add an extra level of depth to their texture.
Popular Uses in Interior Design
Boujad rugs are a popular choice among interior designers due to their bold color schemes that lend themselves perfectly to modern spaces.
They work great as statement pieces on hardwood floors or as cozy accents underneath furniture. In addition to this functionally aesthetic use, these Moroccan beauties also make for great wall hangings.
These versatile creations have made their way into modern design spaces all over the world while still maintaining ties to traditional Moroccan culture.
The next section will cover another type of Moroccan rug known as Beni Ourain – its differences from Boujed will be analyzed thoroughly so you can determine which rug works best for your space.
Origin and History of Beni Ourain Rugs
Beni Ourain rugs are one of the most popular types of Moroccan carpets. They come from the Beni Ourain tribe, which is located in the Atlas Mountains.
This tribespeople are known for their long tradition of weaving and have been producing these rugs for centuries. The history of Beni Ourain rugs is deeply ingrained in Moroccan culture.
The Berber people who create these rugs are known for their nomadic lifestyle and have been weaving them for generations to keep themselves warm during the harsh Atlas Mountain winters. These carpets are made from natural materials such as wool and have a distinct look that sets them apart from other types of Moroccan rugs.
Characteristics and design elements (color, pattern, texture)
Beni Ourain rugs are made from 100% natural wool with no chemicals added to it. This means that they come in different shades of cream, ivory, and beige – colors that reflect the snowy landscapes where they were first produced.
These colors also complement almost any interior style, whether it be traditional or modern. The patterns found on Beni Ourain rugs are usually very simple yet strikingly beautiful.
They typically feature geometric shapes such as diamonds, triangles or lines but can also incorporate more abstract designs such as dots or X’s depending on the weaver’s inspiration. The texture of a Beni Ourain rug is thick and luxurious due to its high pile height making it perfect for areas where comfort is desired.
Popular uses in interior design
Due to their neutral color palette and simple yet eye-catching designs, Beni Ourain rugs have become a favorite among interior designers worldwide.
They add warmth and texture to any space while remaining understated enough not to overwhelm it visually. These rugs can be used as statement pieces in living rooms, bedrooms, or even offices.
They also work well in high-traffic areas such as entrances, hallways, and family rooms due to their durability.
A Beni Ourain rug can transform a room into a cozy and inviting space while still maintaining its elegance and sophistication.
Comparing Boujad and Beni Ourain Rugs
When it comes to Moroccan rugs, Boujad and Beni Ourain are two of the most well-known types. While both are handmade, woolen rugs that have a timeless appeal, there are some key differences between the two.
The materials used in each rug play a significant role in their appearance as well as their durability. Boujad rugs are typically made with wool from the sheep that inhabit the Atlas Mountains.
The wool is hand-spun into thin strands and then dyed using natural pigments sourced from plants, minerals, and insects.
This gives Boujad rugs their distinctive, bold colors such as deep reds, vibrant pinks, and bright oranges. Additionally, Boujad rugs often feature intricate designs with geometric shapes or abstract patterns.
On the other hand, Beni Ourain rugs are made using thicker wool which comes from sheep that live in the Middle Atlas Mountains.
The wool is often not dyed but instead retains its natural ivory color which makes for more muted tones in the rug’s design, or is dyed with natural dyes. Rather than having complex patterns or bright colors like Boujads do, Beni Ourains feature simple yet striking geometric motifs such as diamonds and stripes.
Comparing Boujad and Beni Ourain
| Boujad Rugs | Beni Ourain Rugs | |
|---|---|---|
| Materials | Made with wool from sheep in the Atlas Mountains | Made with thicker wool from sheep in the Middle Atlas Mountains |
| Dyeing Process | Hand-spun wool dyed using natural pigments sourced from plants, minerals, and insects | Natural ivory color or dyed with natural dyes |
| Color Palette | Distinctive bold colors such as deep reds, vibrant pinks, and bright oranges | Muted tones or natural ivory color |
| Design Style | Intricate designs with geometric shapes or abstract patterns | Simple yet striking geometric motifs such as diamonds and stripes |
| Appearance | Vibrant and bold | Subdued and neutral |
| Durability | Durable due to the use of wool from the Atlas Mountains | Durable due to the use of thicker wool |
| Popularity | Well-known for their bold colors and intricate designs | Well-known for their simplicity and timeless appeal |
How to Choose Between Boujad or Beni Ourain Rugs
Choosing between a Boujad and Beni Ourain rug can be a tough decision.
Both types of rugs have unique characteristics, designs, and cultural significance that make them highly sought-after in the world of interior design.
When selecting a rug for your space, it’s important to consider factors such as size, style, and budget to ensure you choose the perfect rug for your home.
Factors to Consider When Selecting a Rug
The first factor to consider when selecting a rug is the size of your space. If you have a small room or apartment, it’s best to go for a smaller-sized rug since it will make the room feel more cozy and intimate.
For larger spaces like living rooms or dining rooms, larger-sized rugs work best since they anchor the space and create visual interest.
The second factor to consider is style.
Both Boujad and Beni Ourain rugs have distinct styles that can work in different types of interiors. For example, if you have a modern decor theme in your home, then a Beni Ourain rug with its neutral color scheme and simple geometric patterns would work perfectly.
On the other hand, if you’re looking for something bolder and more eclectic, then a colorful Boujad rug with its unique designs would be an ideal choice.
Last but not least is budget – ultimately this will help narrow down your options quickly based on what price range you are comfortable with.
Tips on How to Incorporate Your Rug into Your Decor
Now that you’ve chosen between Boujad or Beni Ourain rugs based on factors like size and style preferences within budget constraints (or lack thereof), it’s time to think about how best to incorporate your new piece into existing decor elements.
One of the best ways to do this is by using color.
If you choose a rug that has bright and colorful designs, then you can use these colors as inspiration for other elements in your room such as pillows or wall art. Another key way to incorporate your new rug into your decor is through texture.
Boujad rugs, for example, have a unique texture with their raised pile that creates a sense of depth and dimension in any space they are placed in. You can play off this by adding other textured elements such as woven baskets or throw blankets to create a visually interesting space.
Don’t be afraid to mix and match different styles when it comes to rugs!
Whether you choose a Boujad or Beni Ourain rug, both types can work seamlessly with various styles of furniture and decor – it’s all about finding the right balance between each element.
Tips on Rug Decorating in Home Interior
| Factors to Consider | Tips for Incorporating |
|---|---|
| Size of the space | – Smaller-sized rugs for small rooms or apartments<br>- Larger-sized rugs for living rooms or dining rooms |
| Style preference | – Beni Ourain: Neutral color scheme and simple geometric patterns for modern decor<br>- Boujad: Colorful designs for a bold and eclectic look |
| Budget | Determine your comfortable price range and choose accordingly |
| Incorporating into decor | – Use rug colors as inspiration for other elements like pillows or wall art<br>- Play with texture by adding other textured elements in the space<br>- Mix and match styles for a balanced look |
Conclusion
Summary of Key Differences Between Boujad and Beni Ourain Rugs
Boujad and Beni Ourain rugs are both stunning Moroccan rugs that offer unique characteristics to any space. Boujad rugs are known for their bold colors and intricate geometric patterns, while Beni Ourain rugs feature a more subdued palette with larger, abstract designs.
Additionally, Boujad rugs often incorporate recycled materials or natural dyes to create their one-of-a-kind appearance. On the other hand, Beni Ourain rugs are traditionally made from pure wool and crafted by skilled weavers using ancient techniques.
Final Thoughts on Which Rug Is Best for Your Space
When it comes to selecting a rug for your space, it ultimately depends on your personal style and design preferences.
If you’re looking to make a statement with vibrant colors and patterns, a Boujad rug may be the perfect choice for you.
Alternatively, if you’re seeking a more minimalist aesthetic with subtle texture and neutral hues, a Beni Ourain rug could be the way to go. It’s important to consider the size of the space when selecting a rug as well.
For smaller rooms or areas within larger rooms, it may be best to choose a smaller-sized rug that doesn’t overwhelm the space. In contrast, larger rooms or seating areas can accommodate larger rugs that help tie the whole room together.
Ultimately, both Boujad and Beni Ourain rugs offer an unbeatable combination of style and quality that can transform any space into an inviting oasis of comfort and beauty.
Whether you opt for one over the other or mix-and-match styles throughout your home decor collection, these stunning Moroccan rugs are sure to impress guests while providing you with years of enjoyment in your home’s interior design setup.