Look, there's no easy way around it: Beautiful, quality rugs tend to cost a pretty penny. But if you're in a position to finally put down some cash money for new home decor, an area rug with a unique design can completely transform your home — whether it's for your bedroom, living room, dining room, or home office — and instantly make your space feel professionally designed. Check out the best places to buy unique rugs below. (And hey, if you don't have the moolah now, pin this piece and check out our favorite area rugs under $100.)
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1. Pieces
This NYC-based design collaborative has a thing for fun colors and designs that don't take themselves too seriously. Some of their rugs have sporty references (like the tennis court-like rug above) or an oval rug that kind of looks like a bird's eye view of a running track. Most options come in a range of rug sizes, from 4-by-6 to 9-by-12.
Our pick: Clay Court Area Rug (8-by-10), $3,600
2. Cold Picnic
Brooklyn-based Cold Picnic basically started the abstract rug craze. You can shop everything from round accent rugs to runners to massive area rugs, all with incredible abstract designs. Small designs start at about $180, while an 8-by-10 may cost almost $2,000.
3. LRNCE
We've had our eye on this Moroccan design studio for a while. Their distinctive, almost Picasso-like motifs certainly feel of the moment, but not in a way that will go out of style anytime soon. These completely handmade designs hover around $1,000 each — just keep in mind that you'll have to pay for shipping and import taxes. But it might be worth it because chances are, no one you know has one.
Our pick: Nador Runner Rug (8.2-by-2.6), $915
4. Nordic Knots
This hip company may be based in Sweden, but good news: They offer free delivery to the U.S. within three to six days. The designs are very Scandi: Think linear, geometric motifs in color combos that are either really bold or more neutral. Small sizes generally start around $400 to $500; an 8-by-10 can cost $1,395.
Our pick: Modern Area Rug in Pink (8-by-10), $1,395
5. Armadillo
Armadillo's rugs don't come cheap. (Pieces from their Classic collection largely start at over $1,000.) But that's because the company prides itself on its process, which is completely fair trade (the rugs are handmade by artisans in India). But, if you're looking to invest in a quality rug that won't go out of style, this is where we'd put our money.
Our pick: Nala Area Rug (5.7-by-7.10), $1,490
6. Etsy
At Etsy, you can find so many unique options, from vintage-style (or actual vintage rugs) to handmade wool rugs to classic medallion and Persian styles, and everything in between.
Our pick: Artlina Rugs Moroccan Rug (6.5-by-9.8), $2,769
7. Tantuvi
Tantuvi works with Ikat and dhurrie weavers in India to create designs that reinterpret traditional motifs. The result? Geometric hemp rugs or abstract designs with muted colors. There are also plenty of cotton options in a range of colors from teal to light gray.
Our pick: Eulerina Luna Area Rug (8-by-10), $2,880
HomeGoods designer Tamar Mogendorff doesn't have a ton of rugs in her collection, but we do very much like what she does have: bohemian, plant-inspired motifs rendered in shag. Prices start at $325, while the largest rug comes in at around $1,850.
Our pick: Blue Canopy Date Palm Runner Rug (3-by-6), $645
We love Lulu and Georgia's wide array of rugs, including boho jute rugs, cozy shag options, and abstract flatweave designs. But what we love even more is their frequent collaborations with designers to create truly unique rugs. Some of our favorite collabs are with Miami-based artist and textile designer Élan Byrd and interior designer Sarah Sherman Samuel, both of whom have quite a few best-selling rugs.
10. Beni
Each Beni rug is a one-of-a-kind creation, crafted by a community of Berber descendants in the Atlas Mountains of Morocco. The collection offers a variety of options. Some pieces do a nice job of maintaining the very traditional feel of Moroccan rugs, while others are far more modern, with grid motifs or patterns inspired by modern art. A flat woven rug can start as low as $345; a large size can cost over $4,000.
Our pick: Boxes Area Rugs (8-by-10), $2,432
11. MINNA
MINNA's handwoven rugs are a good choice if you're looking for something stylish, especially if you're working in a smaller space (the designs pack a punch; the smaller sizes also work great as wall hangings).
Our pick: Dream Rug Bright (7-by-10), $2,000
12. 1stDibs
Consider 1stDibs a step up from Etsy with its never-ending supply of vintage and unique area rugs. You can find all sorts of styles, including antique Turkish runner rugs for your entryway to art deco-style area rugs for your living room.
13. Revival Rugs
Between one-of-a-kind designs to restored vintage rugs, Revival Rugs is here to help you find the perfect pick for your space. And to make shopping easier, you can filter rugs by size, color, and type, or take a quiz for even more recommendations.
Our pick: Sagardeep Moroccan Rug (4.9-by-7.7), $624
14. Aelfie
For anyone who loves a bold and eclectic pattern, this New York City-based brand is a must. Whether you opt for a flatweave rug or plush shag, you'll never be bored with Aelfie's selection. Plus, each rug is handmade.
Our pick: Niwa Hand-Carved Rug (8-by-10), $6,400
15. Chairish
Want a truly unique rug from any era? Chairish has you covered. With thousands of new pieces added to the site each day, you'll never know what you'll find, including your future favorite rug.
16. Jungalow
If you want a boho vibe, consider Jungalow your go-to spot for unique rugs. From in-house designs to a collaboration with Loloi, any of the brand's rugs will give your space a major makeover.
17. The Citizenry
The Citizenry partners with artisans all over the world to create stunning home decor, including a collection of handwoven rugs made in Fair Trade environments.
Our pick: Keya Area Rug (8-by-10), $1,395
18. Society6
Support independent artists from around the world when you order a rug from Society6. The site is full of rugs with unique designs and in a range of sizes for any space.