Harriet Crawley, Head of Design UK at Edition 1.6.9, discusses a new mesmerising rug collaboration with Sandra Benhamou.
Paris-based rug brand, Édition 1.6.9 and Interior Architect and Designer Sandra Benhamou have introduced Tellus Mater, a new collection of rugs that celebrate desert landscapes. Here, Harriet Crawley, Head of Design UK at Edition 1.6.9, talks about how the collection came to fruition.
How did your collaboration with Sandra Benhamou come about?
The collaboration came about organically – the team in Paris was already in touch with us for other projects we were working on together. However this particular collaboration was sparked when Sandra approached us directly after a transformative trip to Israel, where she visited the Negev Desert.
Sandra captured a series of aerial photographs that encapsulated the dramatic essence of the desert – the sand dunes, the expansive rocky plateaus and the deep canyons which have been carved by ancient rivers. Sandra approached us with the idea of recreating these mesmerising landscapes into rugs, capturing the depth, texture, and earthy tones of the Negev in a way that would bring its essence into interior spaces. The challenge was not just to replicate the imagery but to translate its emotion.
The collection tells a powerful story of landscapes – how did you translate this concept into the design of the rugs?
The design team worked on translating these images, ensuring that the essence of the desert was captured while also infusing the design with our own creative DNA.
By experimenting with interesting natural materials and advanced knotting techniques, we were able to add depth, movement, and tactile richness to the rugs. We explored a diverse palette inspired by the desert’s natural hues from sun-bleached sands to the rich earthy browns of the canyon walls.
Texture played a pivotal role in bringing the design to life – we layered different weaving methods to mimic the terrain. Certain areas were deliberately raised to evoke the ridges of sand dunes, while others were woven more densely to replicate the solidity of rock formations.
What was the design process like, and how did you balance the raw, primal elements with Édition 1.6.9’s refined craftsmanship?
The design process was fluid and intuitive, evolving organically as we worked through each stage of development. Our expertise lies in the ability to blend colour, texture and craftsmanship. Colour was a central focus as we wanted to reflect the natural palette of the landscape in a way that felt authentic and contemporary. Equally important was our approach to texture. Some areas of the rug were designed to feel smooth and flowing like windswept dunes, whilst other areas have a more structured rugged quality, reminiscent of the desert’s rock formations. While it carries our signature craftsmanship and design sensibility, it remains true to its inspiration.
How does the collection’s name, Tellus Mater, connect with the overall design vision?
Tellus Mater means Mother Earth in Latin, embodying the essence of nature. This collection serves as a tribute to the planet, celebrating its beauty, resilience and the deep bond shared between humans and the natural world. Each piece reflects the artistry and craftsmanship of both Sandra and Edition 1.6.9, showcasing our commitment to sustainability and design.
How do you envision Tellus Mater fitting into different interior styles, and what kind of atmosphere does it create in a space?
The carefully curated materials, organic patterns, and earthy tones lend a timeless quality to the pieces, allowing them to harmonize with different aesthetics.
All of the pieces in this collection serve as more than just a functional element, they are statement pieces that bring depth, warmth, and a sense of tranquillity to a space. Their rich textures and natural hues create an inviting atmosphere, making them the perfect foundation for any interior scheme, whether placed in a minimalist modern home or a cosy heritage-inspired setting.
For interior designers, what are your tips for pairing the Tellus Mater rugs with other design elements or furniture?
My advice would be to start with the rug as the foundation and let it guide the design of the entire space. A well-chosen rug can serve as the anchor for a room, setting the tone for the colour palette, the textures, even the overall aesthetic. Whether it’s the soft muted hues, the intricate weaving techniques, or the organic patterns that first draw you in, this collection offers a perfect starting point for creating any space.
Can you share some insights into the materials and craftsmanship behind the collection?
The choice of materials such as natural undyed wools, linen, nettle, hemp, and natural wild silks all mirror and connect with the original theme. The textures of the different materials also mimic those that are found in the desert, from the softness of fine grains of sand to the rugged strength of weathered rock formations.
The colour palette also reflects the organic hues of desert landscapes, featuring warm neutrals, sun-bleached tones, and earthy shades that evoke a sense of calm and balance. These subtle variations in colour also creates a natural depth, much like the interplay of light and shadow across the horizon.
What makes Tellus Mater stand out from other rug collections?
Tellus Mater is a tribute to nature, designed to connect us to the earth through its thoughtful craftsmanship and the timeless beauty of its materials. The unique blend of materials creates a striking contrast that is both visually and tactilely engaging, inviting touch and interaction. Each element tells a story of nature’s diversity and strength, with textures that evoke the raw elegance of the earth’s surface. The interplay of contrasting colours and materials highlights the intricate beauty of the natural world, allowing Tellus Mater to bring a sense of grounding and harmony to its surroundings.
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