Introducing Our New Persian Sultanabad Heritage Rugs

There are some rugs that simply fill a room, and there are others that completely transform it.

Our new Persian Sultanabad Heritage Rugs belong firmly in the second category.

Inspired by one of Persia's most celebrated rug-making traditions, this new collection brings together the distinctive character of Sultanabad with the relaxed, timeless feel that makes these rugs so at home in modern interiors.

The story behind Sultanabad

Sultanabad, now known as Arak, has been an important centre of Persian rug production since the city was established in 1808. Over time, the region became particularly renowned for its distinctive floral and geometric designs, generous proportions and beautifully softened colour palettes.

Unlike some Persian rug traditions that are known for highly intricate, densely packed designs, Sultanabad rugs are often celebrated for their sense of space. Large-scale florals, scrolling vines and geometric elements are allowed room to breathe, creating designs that feel both decorative and wonderfully relaxed.

It is this balance that has made Sultanabad a favourite with interior designers.

What makes a Sultanabad Heritage rug different?

The beauty of the new Sultanabad Heritage collection lies in its ability to capture the character of traditional Persian rugs while feeling completely at home in today's interiors. Though they are very similar to the Sultanabad collection, the main difference is seen in the pile of the rug. The Heritage collection has a lower pile, making the colours even more muted. 

Expect to see:

• Large-scale floral and geometric patterns that create a strong focal point without overwhelming a room.
• Soft, understated colour palettes, including warm creams, muted greens and gentle neutrals.
• Handmade construction, with wool pile and cotton foundations across the collection.
• Generous proportions, making Sultanabad particularly effective in larger living rooms, dining rooms and open-plan spaces.
• A naturally relaxed aesthetic that works beautifully alongside both traditional and contemporary furniture.

The result is a rug with plenty of personality, but without the formality that can sometimes come with more intricate Persian designs.

Heritage character, made for modern homes

One of the reasons we love Sultanabad rugs at Lilla Rugs is their versatility.

A traditional Persian rug can sometimes feel as though it needs a traditional room around it. Sultanabad is different. Its open designs and softened tones make it surprisingly easy to introduce into contemporary spaces.

Picture a muted Sultanabad beneath a linen sofa, layered into a neutral sitting room, or bringing warmth and pattern to a minimalist dining space. In a more traditional home, the same rug can sit comfortably alongside antiques, dark wood and richly coloured upholstery.

The design has enough history to give a room character, while the palette allows everything around it to breathe.

A collection of one-of-a-kind rugs

At Lilla Rugs, we believe a rug should feel personal.

Each of our rugs is one of a kind, and the new Sultanabad Heritage collection is no exception. From large statement pieces to more versatile room-sized designs, each rug has its own combination of pattern, colour and character.

The collection includes impressive large-format pieces such as RANE, measuring 480 × 360cm, alongside GALI at 420 × 340cm and DARBY at 387 × 310cm. There are also more compact options for spaces where you want to introduce the Sultanabad look without committing to a room-defining scale.

How to style a Sultanabad rug

If you're wondering how to bring one into your home, our advice is simple: don't overthink it.

Let the rug do some of the talking.

Keep the furniture simple

Sultanabad designs already have plenty of visual interest. Pairing one with understated furniture and natural materials such as linen, timber and leather allows the rug's pattern to become the centrepiece.

Pick up a colour from the rug

Rather than trying to match everything exactly, choose one subtle colour from the rug and repeat it elsewhere in the room. A muted green cushion, warm cream upholstery or aged wood finish can create a sense of cohesion without making the room feel overly coordinated.

Give it space

The generous scale of Sultanabad designs is part of their appeal. Where possible, allow enough of the rug to be visible around your furniture so the pattern can be appreciated as a whole.

Don't be afraid of contrast

A beautifully aged-looking Persian-inspired design can look particularly striking against contemporary furniture. Think sculptural lighting, clean-lined sofas or modern artwork alongside the more traditional pattern of the rug.

Why we're excited about the new collection

For us, the appeal of Sultanabad is its ability to bridge two worlds.

It has the history, craftsmanship and visual language of Persian rug-making, but it doesn't feel stuck in the past. Its generous designs, soft colours and easy-going character make it just as relevant to a contemporary London home as they are to a more traditional interior.

And perhaps most importantly, these are rugs you'll continue to enjoy long after the room has changed around them.

Discover the new Persian Sultanabad Heritage collection at Lilla Rugs and find the one that's right for your space.

Explore the Sultanabad collection at Lilla Rugs

Lilla Rugs is a family-run business with over 30 years of rug expertise, offering a collection of handmade, one-of-a-kind rugs from its North West London warehouse.