We think you'll agree with us on this—rugs are far more than mere floor coverings. They are the heartbeat of a room, infusing spaces with warmth, elegance, and a profound sense of completeness. In today’s design landscape, rugs have transcended their traditional role to become focal points of style and expression. No longer relegated to simply covering floors, rugs now serve as statement pieces that can dramatically alter a room’s ambiance and character.
Imagine a room without a rug. It feels unfinished, doesn’t it? Rugs provide the finishing touch that ties together the various elements of a space, adding depth and a touch of personality. They offer a unique opportunity to express individuality and taste, reflecting personal style in a way that few other home accessories can. And this is exactly what Runo Rugs do.
Photo credit:
Darija Jelinčić
A Conversation with Runo Rugs' Founder
We had the pleasure of speaking with Roberta Bratović, the creative force behind Runo Rugs. Based in Zagreb, this design studio creates rugs that are a true testament to the art of handcrafting. Using the finest organic wool from Europe and New Zealand, each rug is meticulously hand-tufted by master weavers in Croatia. These aren't just rugs—they’re pieces of heritage, with every fiber carrying the legacy of a craft that dates back to 1967.
“I started Runo during the lockdown,” Roberta shared with us. “Like many, I was looking for something meaningful to invest my time in. Having worked as a designer at Liberty London, I’ve always had a deep appreciation for meticulously crafted products. I knew I wanted to create something that was not only beautiful but also rooted in tradition.”
And rooted it is. The entire production process—from yarn preparation to dyeing and finishing—takes place in-house in Croatia. This ensures that every Runo rug is not only of the highest quality but also steeped in a tradition that has been carefully preserved over the decades. “The wool we use is top-notch, and the process is all about precision,” Roberta explains. “We don’t just make rugs; we create pieces that have a soul, a story.”
Design and Sustainability: The Runo Rugs Difference
But what really sets Runo Rugs apart is their approach to design. The brand’s first collection plays with geometry and the idea of accidental folds, creating an effect as if rugs have been thrown one on top of another. This layering, combined with the use of different colors and pile heights, results in a rug that’s both visually dynamic and endlessly versatile. Whether you’re looking to ground a minimalist space or add texture to a more eclectic room, Runo Rugs has something that will speak to your aesthetic.
Custom orders are also a big part of what makes Runo special. “I work closely with clients to ensure their rug fits perfectly within their space,” says Roberta. “We discuss everything—from the tones of their interiors to how the rug can either blend in or make a statement. We don’t keep standard sizes in stock; every rug is made to order, so it can be as unique as the space it’s designed for.”
Sustainability is another cornerstone of Runo’s philosophy. “Wool is a natural, renewable material, and that’s incredibly important to us,” Roberta notes. “Our ‘made to order’ model means that our clients are thoughtful about their purchases—they know they’re getting something that’s built to last, both in terms of quality and design. We’re not just selling rugs; we’re offering pieces that are meant to be cherished for decades.”
Runo Rugs are more than just a finishing touch for your home—they’re an invitation to bring a piece of artisanal craftsmanship into your daily life. Whether it’s the luxurious feel underfoot, the rich history woven into every fiber, or the eco-conscious approach that defines the brand, a Runo rug is a statement of style, sustainability, and timeless beauty. So if you’re looking to add more than just a rug to your home, Runo is where your search ends.
Photo credit:
Darija Jelinčić, Vanja Šolin