Berber Rugs are Forever Timeless — And I Found 12 Iconic Styles That Won’t Break the Bank

Ah, the iconic Berber rug. It might be hard to believe these classically stylish rugs have been around for over 1,000 years, but they sure have — and they aren't going anywhere anytime soon. You’ve likely seen Berber rugs (or Berber-style rugs) in your favorite worldly interiors, splashed across your Instagram feed, or even hanging in high-end galleries.

And who do we have to thank for some of the world's best rugs? According to interior designer Courtney Cole, ‘Berber rugs hail from the tribes in the Atlas Mountains of Morocco and are alternatively known as 'Beni Ourain." Christiane Lemieux, interior designer and founder of Lemieux et Cie, adds, ‘Today, Beni Ourain rugs continue to be celebrated for their timeless beauty and cultural significance. They are prized not only for their aesthetic appeal but also for the craftsmanship and heritage they embody, bridging the past and present in a weave of history and artistry.’

Since the mid-20th century, when these rugs first started gaining traction, Berber-inspired rugs have become a fan favorite due to their softness and unmatched versatility. ‘With their neutral color palette, they can easily integrate into various decor styles, from minimalist to bohemian,’ notes Courtney Cole, adding that ‘their patterns are usually either geometric or abstract, perfect for adding a subtle yet engaging visual interest without overwhelming a room's aesthetic.’

For those who haven’t noticed, we have a penchant for Berber-style rugs — but in this economy, we’re on a budget. We’ve rounded up affordable Berber-style rugs that offer plenty of pile height and decorative designs. Whether you're styling a spacious living room or sprucing up an otherwise plain hallway, a Berber rug will add a slice of cozy and a lot of fun to your space. We dare you not to fall in love with these designs…

Beautiful Berber-Style Rugs

Thankfully, these days, you don't have to book a flight to Morocco just to get your hands on a Beni Ourain rug. We've found plenty of Berber style rugs that are just a click away.

Best Geometric Berber Rugs

Best Patterned Berber Rugs

Best Minimal Berber Rugs

Best Classical Style Berber Rugs

Q&A

WHAT IS A BERBER-STYLE RUG?

Originally from Morocco and surrounding areas of Northern Africa, Berber rugs — or Beni Ourain as they are also known — were popularized by designers in mid-20th century Europe. Seeking inspiration from further afield, they imported these luxurious piles in their thousands, bringing the expertly handwoven works from the Berber tribes of the Atlas Mountains to the sitting rooms of Paris, London, and New York.

We owe these beautiful Berber-style rug designs particularly to the nomadic women of the Beni Ourain tribe, who passed down their looping techniques and secret family patterns for generations. But there's more to these rugs than meets the eye. The patterns aren't just beautiful; they are symbolic too — the lozenge, chevron, and diamond shapes represent femininity and fertility.

And, like fingerprints, the original Moroccan Berber rug patterns were as unique and individual as the weavers who created them. According to interior designer and founder of modern luxury brand Lemieux et Cie, Christiane Lemieux, ‘Each rug tells a unique story, with patterns that reflect the weaver's experiences, beliefs, and environment.’ She adds, ‘These designs often include diamonds, lines, and other abstract symbols, believed to have protective and talismanic meanings.’

A Berber rug’s colors, patterns, and woven designs are all inextricably linked to the isolated villages where they originated — which gives these rugs a new dimension beyond aesthetic appeal. ‘Only a Berber is a Berber,’ notes Christiane. ‘It’s a reference to this history, people, and craft.’

Should I buy a Berber-Style Rug or the Real Deal?

You can get your hands on authentic Berber rugs through rug specialists or perhaps by bringing one back from Morocco itself. At Livingetc, we’re especially fond of the vintage varieties offered at retailers like ABC Carpet & Home. Real Beni Ourain rugs are undeniably beautiful, but with area sizes typically costing upwards of $2,000, they’re not exactly affordable buys.

According to interior designer Evelina Juzėnaitė, Berber-style rugs, which emulate the look and feel of the originals, are factory-made to lower costs and are more readily available online and in local stores. These imitations offer similar aesthetics and materials, often coming in more color and pattern options than their authentic counterparts. ‘Their quality is not bad either,’ says Evelina, 'and they provide just as much coziness as natural carpets.’

How can I tell authentic Berber rugs apart from interpretations?

The biggest giveaway is the material. Real, original Berber rugs are crafted from wool, giving them a distinct texture and luxurious feel. These authentic pieces are rare and come with a higher price tag. On the other hand, Berber-style rugs are typically made from polyester or polypropylene, making them more affordable and easier to find. Some of the best Berber-style rugs can be quite purse-friendly while still offering a similar appearance.

How should I clean a Berber rug?

Christiane Lemieux assures us that Berber rugs are easily cared for. True Berber rugs, made from wool, can be cleaned almost like washing your hair. However, regular maintenance is key. Interior designer Evelina Juzėnaitė recommends vacuuming regularly to remove dust, but be sure to use a soft nozzle to avoid damaging the natural fibers.

If you encounter any spots or stains, don’t panic! Act quickly, as natural wool absorbs everything. You don’t need any fancy cleaning products; water alone usually does the trick. Reserve professional cleaners for your last resort to ensure your rug remains in top condition.