A recent collaboration between architecture studio Renesa and Indian rug manufacturer House of Knots has led to the creation of a unique series of hand-tufted rugs, dubbed "Brick by Brick." These pieces offer a fresh perspective on the humble brick, interpreting it through geometric abstractions that blur the lines between architectural diagrams and textile artistry. The collection's core concept, as articulated by Sanchit Arora of Renesa, involves deconstructing architecture to its most basic component and then imaginatively rebuilding it, paying homage to the brick's enduring presence in both traditional and contemporary Indian design.
Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, the rugs are the brainchild of Renesa's Janvi Bhatia, who envisioned them as a fusion of architectural elements such as plans, sections, and elevations compressed into a single, tactile surface. Key inspirations include India's rich architectural heritage, specifically courtyards, stepwells, and intricate masonry patterns. Each rug undergoes a labor-intensive production process, taking master artisans in Bhadohi, India, between 50 and 60 days to complete, utilizing a luxurious blend of wool and silk. The challenge of merging architecture's inherent rigidity with textiles' natural softness was met by varying pile heights and custom dyeing techniques that evoke the natural earthen and terracotta hues of the Indian landscape, showcasing the artisans' generational expertise.
This innovative collection challenges conventional notions of architecture, proposing that it transcends mere physical structures to encompass objects and textiles. Arora emphasizes that architecture is fundamentally a mode of thought, and the "Brick by Brick" rugs embody this philosophy by positioning themselves as architectural artifacts where each knot contributes to a larger constructional narrative. The debut of these rugs at Milan Design Week's Alcova platform highlights their significance as a boundary-pushing endeavor that not only celebrates traditional craftsmanship but also redefines the artistic potential within everyday design elements, encouraging a broader appreciation for architectural principles in diverse mediums.