Dilana Rugs

Dilana Rugs is a renowned artisan workshop for floor textiles based in Christchurch, New Zealand. Founded in 1980 by Hugh Bannerman, the workshop was established with a vision to “facilitate an ongoing study of textile imagery for the floor, its aesthetic function within a given environment and the artistic properties of the textile within its own parameters.” (Hugh Bannerman, 1986).

Bannerman was inspired to create flooring textiles while travelling through Turkey, where he saw high-quality hand-woven rugs. He initially began a small artisan rug-making workshop in Auckland that specialized in handcrafted rugs made from locally sourced natural fibers before relocating to Christchurch and founding the workshop.

Dilana quickly gained a reputation as New Zealand’s leading artisan textile floor covering firm, capable of producing high-quality, unique designs that were both functional and beautiful. As business grew, the company expanded its range of techniques and materials.

The firm has collaborated with leading contemporary artists, designers, and architects over several decades to produce ambitious, handmade works that can be found in public and private collections around the world, and sites including airports, hotels, public and commercial buildings. The brand has won numerous awards for its innovative designs and commitment to sustainability, making it a leader in the luxury rug market.

See also:

Kate Wells, ‘Wellington Rug’ (1992), Mayoral Suite, Town Hall, Whanganui-a-Tara Wellington

Image: courtesy Wellington City Council