We Tested Every Rug at The Citizenry

Why Rugs Matter in Home Design

A rug is often overlooked as just a decorative accessory, but it plays a crucial role in defining the style and comfort of a space. While there are countless options available for purchasing rugs, finding one that’s made from natural materials and crafted by hand can be challenging. One standout destination for such high-quality, artisan-made rugs is The Citizenry, a home goods store that focuses on small-batch, handcrafted pieces from around the world.

As part of our Personal Shopper series, we visited The Citizenry’s flagship store in New York City to experience their collection firsthand. From the moment we walked in, we were struck by the quality and uniqueness of each piece. The store offers a curated selection of rugs that not only enhance the aesthetics of a room but also bring a sense of authenticity and craftsmanship.

What Makes The Citizenry Unique

The Citizenry prides itself on sustainable and ethical production practices. Every rug is made from natural materials like wool and jute, and each piece is woven and knotted by skilled artisans. This attention to detail ensures that every rug is not only beautiful but also durable and long-lasting. However, these qualities come at a price. The rugs are significantly more expensive than mass-produced alternatives, with prices starting at around $700 and going up to over $3,000 for larger options.

Despite the cost, The Citizenry is an ideal choice for those seeking unique, statement-making pieces that you won’t find elsewhere. Their aesthetic is minimalist and natural, which means they may not appeal to those who prefer bold patterns and vibrant colors. Additionally, all the rugs we saw are designed for indoor use only, so they aren’t suitable for outdoor spaces.

How We Tested the Rugs

To provide a comprehensive review, we evaluated each rug based on several key criteria:

• In-Store Placement: Where was the rug positioned? Was it in a high-traffic area or a less visible corner?
• Aesthetic: What kind of decor scheme does it suit? Does it have bold lines, patterns, or colors?
• Feel: Is the surface soft or rough?
• Fluff Factor: What is the pile height? Is it tufted with long threads or tightly woven?
• Versatility: Can it be used indoors and outdoors? Is it reversible or available in multiple sizes and colors?

Our goal was to give readers a realistic sense of what each rug feels like and how it might fit into different living spaces.

Our Favorite Rugs from The Citizenry

Most Versatile: Artha Area Rug

The Artha Handwoven Striped Area Rug is a top choice for its versatility. It comes in several neutral colors and sizes, making it adaptable to various spaces. The medium pile height and wool construction offer a comfortable feel, though it may shed slightly in the first few months. Its subtle stripe detailing adds visual texture without overwhelming the room.

Best for Living Rooms: Sarasi Area Rug

The Sarasi Hand-Knotted Area Rug features a muted pattern that blends well with most decor styles. Its medium pile height and wool construction make it suitable for high-traffic areas, though it isn’t as soft as some other options. Available in one color and four sizes, it’s a great choice for those looking for a timeless look.

Best for Bedrooms: Lahar Area Rug

The Lahar Hand-Knotted Area Rug has a cheerful, sunburst pattern that brings a serene vibe to any bedroom. The cream and white color combination is simple yet elegant, and the medium pile height offers a balance between plush and flat. Though it only comes in one color, it’s available in multiple sizes, including runners.

Best Plush: Lalita Area Rug

The Lalita Hand-Knotted Area Rug is the coziest option in the collection, with a 1-inch thick pile that feels like a pillow. Its curving design gives it a contemporary feel, and it’s recommended for low-traffic areas like bedrooms. However, the white color may show dirt easily, and it will shed initially.

Best Textured: Lata Area Rug

The Lata Hand-Knotted Area Rug stands out for its unique woven texture, resembling an aerial view of a field. It comes in three neutral colors and features fringe on the ends, adding a touch of style. While it’s versatile and soft, it’s best suited for lower-traffic areas due to its thinness.

Best Patterned: Saraja Area Rug

The Saraja Hand-Knotted Area Rug is the boldest in the collection, featuring a Southwestern-inspired pattern and warm, earthy tones. Its low pile makes it suitable for high-traffic areas, and the color scheme helps hide dirt. However, it’s only available in one color and large sizes, making it a statement piece for those looking for something unique.

Best Jute: Shakha Area Rug

The Shakha Hand-Knotted Area Rug combines jute with wool tufting for a softer feel. It’s durable and suitable for high-traffic areas, though the light wool sections may show dirt. The low pile makes it less cozy, but adding a rug pad can enhance comfort.

These rugs represent just a fraction of The Citizenry’s collection, but they highlight the brand’s commitment to quality, sustainability, and craftsmanship. Whether you're looking for a statement piece or a versatile addition to your home, The Citizenry offers a range of options that cater to different tastes and needs.