In a new collaboration with cc-tapis, interior designer and architect Shalini Misra has designed a series of rugs based on the ancient stepwells of India.
The Stepwells rug collection by Shalini Misra celebrates the iconic architectural landmarks found across India. Photography: Curio
Words by Roddy Clarke
Drawing on one of India’s most unique architectural forms, the recently launched Stepwells rug collection by Shalini Misra is bringing the magic of these historic sites into the home. Also known as baori, bawdi, or vav, stepwells are made up of a series of ledges that descend to the water to allow visitors to bathe and wash clothes as well as facilitating social gatherings and religious ceremonies. Thought to have been constructed around 600AD, many stepwells have unfortunately since been neglected and some have even disappeared. Now, as heritage and governmental organisations work hard to preserve those remaining, the intricate magic and symmetrical patterns of these iconic landmarks can continue to be a part of the country’s urban landscape.
Shalini Misra at one of the three sites which inspired the Stepwells Collection. Photography: Curio
Featuring elements of three specific stepwells from across the country, the three abstract carpet designs in this collection celebrate not only their aesthetic beauty but also the spiritual and social energy found upon visiting them. And, with Shalini’s personal connection to the stepwells connected to her own heritage of growing up and studying in India, the now London-based designer says how she wanted to honour the rich cultural tapestry of these symbolic locations. “They served as safe havens, particularly for women fetching water,” she explains when discussing the inspiration behind this new venture. “They are an integral part of the country’s cultural history.”
Handcrafted in Nepal, the rug collection was designed and produced in collaboration with cc-tapis. Photography: Curio
Hand-knotted by Nepalese artisans via Italian rug manufacturers cc-tapis, and available exclusively via Misra’s online store Curio, this deeper narrative also mirrors Misra’s personal design ethos. Centring her interior design projects on the connection of mind, body, and soul, alongside the principles of wellness and sustainability, she hopes the collection radiates these holistic values. “As an architect, I’ve always been mesmerised by the functional and aesthetic brilliance of India’s stepwells and how they act as water-harvesting systems and spiritual centres,” she continues. “My goal with this collection was to craft a series of pieces that would combine exceptional craftsmanship with a profound sense of place.”
Now available on a made-to-order basis, the Stepwells rug collection by Shalini Misra can be found exclusively online at Curio. Photography: Curio
Paying close attention to the construction of these functional works of art, Shalini says working with cc-tapis was an obvious choice as the studio’s commitment to craftsmanship and eco-friendly practices perfectly aligned with her vision. “Their dedication to social and environmental responsibility, as seen through initiatives like cc-for education, really resonate with Curio’s values,” she says. With the Italian studio’s creations including up to 232,000 individual knots per square meter, the level of artisanal excellence is second-to-none. Coupled with the use of ethically sourced materials and a drive towards carbon neutrality, the responsible design methodology behind the collection further enhances its beauty. And, with each piece taking 14-17 weeks to complete, the meticulous production process echoes the artisanal expertise behind the creation of the stepwells themselves, culminating in an exquisite collection centred on the excellence of craft and the magic found within it.
The Stepwells Collection by Shalini Misra begins from £5400 and can be discovered here.
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