above: Fayette's studio in Greenwich, which has recently undergone an impressive renovation.
PHOTOGRAPHY BY KATIE TUZMEN / BROOK ROAD PHOTOGRAPHY
During an installation in Westport, I sit down with Fayette Studio founder Kyra Schulhof to discuss innovations in rug customization, sustainability, and working with clients on custom rugs.
SY: Tell us what inspired you to start Fayette Studio.
KS: Starting my carpet company was a happy accident born of ingenuity. While I was working as a decorator, my clients often asked me about cheaper options for rugs. In my effort to meet their needs, I opened wholesale accounts without realizing the responsibilities that came with it – like purchasing disposable samples and building an ever-growing inventory. What started as a practical solution quickly grew into something much larger.
With these patterns and a flair for design, I began designing custom-made rugs, turning a challenge into an opportunity. Although we still offer broadloom carpets today, our true passion and expertise lies in custom-made carpets. It was an unexpected trip but one I wouldn't trade for anything and being based in Greenwich gives us a fantastic base for it.
SY: What sets Fayette Studio apart?
KS: We pride ourselves on our attention to detail, high craftsmanship and superior customer service. As design consultants, we often do our best to guide clients through the customization process and offer creative, out-of-the-box solutions to find the perfect rug for any budget. Combining innovative tools, high-quality materials and a bespoke approach, we deliver bespoke rugs that are as functional as they are beautiful, perfectly complementing any unique interior design vision.
SY: What do you think is the key to designing a truly timeless rug and how do you envision your rugs fitting into your customers' lives?
KS: The key to designing a truly timeless rug is balancing classic aesthetics with a sense of individuality, creating pieces that feel both durable and personal. Fayette Studio rugs are more than just decoration – they are functional works of art for your floor, adding beauty and practicality to everyday life. Carefully tailored to each customer's style and needs, these rugs become an integral part of their rooms, providing both comfort and lasting elegance.
SY: What is your design process when creating a new rug collection?
KS: At Fayette Studio, our design process begins with gathering inspiration from diverse sources such as art, nature and culture to create timeless, distinctive concepts. We work with artisans around the world and select production locations based on their expertise and the quality of available materials. For example, we source alpacas from Peru, lambskins from Turkey, tufting techniques from Asia and hand-knotted craftsmanship from Nepal. After refining our designs through digital renderings and smears, we work closely with these skilled artisans to bring each rug to life, ensuring the highest quality and craftsmanship in every piece.
SY: Do you work directly with clients to create custom pieces or do you take a more curated collection approach?
KS: Fayette Studio works both ways: offering a curated collection of bespoke rug designs while working directly with clients to create bespoke pieces. Customers can choose from our existing designs or work with us to create something completely unique. Whether it's a custom colorway, size or a fully personalized design, we ensure each piece meets the customer's specific needs and aesthetic. This mix of curated offerings and personalized design services allows us to cover a wide range of interior design projects.
SY: What are the most important factors you consider when designing a rug – color, texture, materials or something else?
KS: We focus on color, texture and materials that fit the space. We also consider where the rug will be placed and the family's needs and recommend the best materials for durability and comfort. Patterns and sizes are chosen to balance style and functionality.
SY: How much of the rug making process is done by hand and how do you ensure quality and consistency across all the pieces?
KS: Our custom rugs are expertly handcrafted by the finest artisans who bring precision and care to each piece. The true beauty of handmade rugs lies in their individuality – slight imperfections and variations that only enhance their character and charm. To ensure both quality and consistency, we work with carefully selected craftsmen, apply proven techniques and carry out strict quality control at every stage of production. This process allows each rug to meet our high standards while honoring its unique, handcrafted nature.
SY: Are there any traditional techniques or modern innovations that you incorporate into your designs?
KS: We combine traditional techniques with modern innovations to create unique, high quality rugs. Our hand-knotted rugs are made in Nepal using time-honored methods passed down through generations, making each piece a work of art. We also use modern materials like velvet nylon for a luxurious shine and vegan faux lambskin for a soft, eco-friendly alternative. Manufactured in Asia and Europe, our tufted and woven designs utilize cutting-edge technology while honoring traditional craftsmanship, allowing us to offer designs that are both timeless and innovative.
SY: Technically speaking, what excites you most about your carpet tools?
KS: Our innovative rug customization tool provides a seamless design experience. Customers can adjust colors, materials, pile heights and color placement in real time, providing a clear preview of the final rug. Accessible from any computer or smartphone, it simplifies the design process and ensures confidence in your decisions while saving you time and making the experience enjoyable.
SY: What role does sustainability play in your production methods or material choices?
KS: Sustainability plays a key role in every aspect of our production process. We focus on working with artisans who prioritize eco-friendly practices and use materials that are both sustainable and high quality. Our selection of fibers – like alpaca wool from Peru and lambskin from Turkey – are not only luxurious, but also responsibly sourced. We are committed to reducing waste by creating timeless, long-lasting rugs that are designed to last, ensuring our pieces remain part of your home for years to come. Additionally, we continue to explore sustainable alternatives, including the use of vegan faux lambskin and gentle dyes, to offer our customers beautiful, eco-conscious designs. For us, sustainability is not just a trend – it is a commitment to craftsmanship, quality and the planet.
SY: How do you keep the art of rug making relevant and innovative in today's design world?
KS:To ensure that the art of carpet making remains both relevant and innovative, the use of technology plays a crucial role in improving communication and the customer experience. At Fayette Studio, we use modern tools to seamlessly connect with our factories, enabling real-time updates and image sharing throughout the production process. This transparency not only gives customers a closer look at the intricate work and craftsmanship behind each handmade rug, but also fosters a deeper appreciation for the love and pride that goes into each piece. In addition, technology helps us avoid errors, optimize communication with our weavers and save valuable time. Immediate updates and direct communication ensure each rug meets the highest standards, reducing errors and keeping the process on track. By combining tradition and cutting-edge technology, we are able to offer our customers a personalized and efficient experience while preserving the art of carpet making.
SY: How do you help customers navigate the often overwhelming process of choosing the perfect rug for their space?
KS: I guide clients through the selection process by understanding their design vision, space needs and personal style preferences. Based on these insights, I provide personalized recommendations, offering different carpet qualities and custom options to suit their needs. Additionally, I offer a rug design tool that allows customers to visualize their selections in different environments to ensure they feel confident in their decision and are thrilled with the end result.
SY: You have a location in the Hamptons. What are you most looking forward to in 2025, from Greenwich to the East End?
KS: What started as a one-off pop-up in the Hamptons will now continue through summer 2025 because we had an incredibly positive response. It has motivated us to bring even more curated collections, exclusive collaborations and artist presentations to the Hamptons, while continuing to maintain our flagship store in Greenwich and serving customers from New York City to Fairfield County and beyond.
28 Bruce Park Ave, Greenwich, CT 06830
fayettestudio.com