Six designers, six stories, one landmark collection

Catherine Martin’s Dianthus draws from historic textile references, combining influences from an 18th-century crewel embroidery and Chinese embroidery into a contemporary floral composition. The piece supports the Ovarian Cancer Research Foundation, a cause close to Martin’s heart.

Akira Isogawa’s Wedding Birds transforms the delicate artistry of a hand-embroidered wedding dress from his archive into a rug inspired by love, unity and Australia’s avian landscapes, supporting BirdLife Australia’s conservation work.

Other pieces explore themes of resilience, architecture and nature. Silvana Azzi Heras’ Ruby Rising reflects her own experience with cancer and supports the Kids Cancer Centre at Sydney Children’s Hospital, Randwick, while Greg Natale’s Passi draws on the architectural language of the Italian passeggiata with proceeds supporting Project Rocket Foundation.

The collection also highlights the versatility of contemporary rug design. Louise Olsen’s Nature’s Rhythms captures movement inspired by the natural world while supporting the Bob Brown Foundation, and Ken Done’s Studio Reef translates the colours and energy of coral ecosystems into a handknotted piece supporting the Great Barrier Reef Foundation.

Across the six works, the rug becomes more than a finishing element within an interior. Each piece represents a collaboration between designer, maker and cause, demonstrating how considered objects can carry meaning beyond their physical presence.

As Designer Rugs marks four decades of design, the auction reflects a broader shift in interiors towards pieces with provenance, craftsmanship and a story behind them.

Discover more Australian design stories through ArchiPro’s publications, exploring the projects, professionals and ideas shaping contemporary interiors.