Harmony HAY04 Ivory Grey Rug

Morning mist over a frosted field has much the same quality as this abstract rug in HAY04 Ivory Grey. Soft ivory and smoky grey drift across the surface, with patches of raised diamonds and small solid blocks that come into view and then dissolve, and the high low pile means the design changes as you walk around it.

Picture a London mansion flat with high ceilings, plaster cornicing and a velvet sofa in dusty blue. Laid across pale oak boards, the rug softens the echo of a large room without adding visual weight. Brass picture lights and stone coloured linen curtains complete the mood. 236 x 297 cm sits nicely beneath a sofa and two armchairs, 259 x 351 cm steadies a bigger group of chairs, and 297 x 419 cm is the one for an open plan space or a long dining table.

Nourison has it woven by hand in India from 44% wool, 44% viscose and 12% polyester. The cut pile, about 11 mm, alternates between high and low areas, and there is no border to frame it. It is suitable for underfloor heating. Expect moderate shedding at first, which calms down with regular vacuuming, and handmade pieces always vary a touch in size and shade. Keep the beater bar off, deal with marks straight away using a damp cloth, and rely on a professional cleaner for a deeper refresh.