above: Fayette’s Greenwich studio which has recently undergone a stunning renovation.
PHOTOGRAPHY BY KATIE TUZMEN / BROOK ROAD PHOTOGRAPHY
From an install in Westport, I sit down with Fayette Studio Founder Kyra Schulhof to discuss innovations in rug customization, sustainability and collaborating with clients on bespoke carpeting.
SY: Tell us what inspired you to launch Fayette Studio.
KS: Starting my rug company was a happy accident born out of resourcefulness. While working as a decorator, my clients often asked me to find more affordable options for carpet. In my quest to meet their needs, I opened wholesale accounts without fully realizing the commitment that came with it—like purchasing non-returnable samples and accumulating an ever-growing inventory. What started as a practical solution quickly turned into something much bigger.
With those samples and an eye for design, I pivoted into creating custom rugs, transforming what could have been a challenge into an opportunity. Today, while we still offer broadloom stocked carpets, our true passion and expertise lie in custom rugs. It’s been an unexpected journey, but one I wouldn’t trade for anything, and being based in Greenwich gives us an amazing home base to do that from.
SY: What makes Fayette Studio distinct?
KS: We pride ourselves on our attention to detail, elevated craftsmanship and high-touch customer service. Acting as design consultants, we often go above and beyond to guide clients through the customization process, offering creative, out-of-the-box solutions to find the perfect rug for any budget. By combining innovative tools, premium materials, and a tailored approach, we deliver bespoke rugs that are as functional as they are beautiful, perfectly complementing each 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 the lives of your customers?
KS: The key to designing a truly timeless rug lies in balancing classic aesthetics with a sense of individuality, creating pieces that feel both enduring and personal. Fayette Studio rugs are more than decor—they are functional works of art for your floor, designed to enhance daily life with beauty and purpose. Thoughtfully tailored to each client’s style and needs, these rugs become an integral part of their spaces, offering both comfort and lasting elegance.
SY: What is your design process like when creating a new rug collection?
KS: At Fayette Studio, our design process begins by gathering inspiration from diverse sources like art, nature and culture to create timeless, distinctive concepts. We collaborate with artisans worldwide, choosing production locations based on their expertise and the quality of materials available. For example, we source alpacas from Peru, shearlings from Turkey, tufting techniques from Asia and hand-knotted craftsmanship from Nepal. After refining our designs through digital renderings and strike-offs, 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 with clients directly to create custom pieces, or do you have a more curated collection approach?
KS: Fayette Studio works both ways, offering a curated collection of custom rug designs while also collaborating directly with clients to create bespoke pieces. Clients can choose from our existing designs or work with us to develop something entirely unique. Whether it’s a custom colorway, size, or a fully personalized design, we ensure that each piece meets the specific needs and aesthetic of the client. This blend of curated offerings and personalized design services allows us to cater to 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 to suit the space. We also consider where the rug will be placed and the family’s needs, recommending the best materials for durability and comfort. The pattern and size are chosen to balance style and functionality.
SY: How much of the rug-making process is done by hand, and how do you maintain quality and consistency across pieces?
KS: Our custom rugs are expertly crafted by hand, using 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 add to their character and charm. To ensure both quality and consistency, we collaborate with carefully chosen artisans, employing time-honored techniques and maintaining rigorous quality control at every stage of production. This process allows each rug to meet our exacting standards while celebrating its unique, handcrafted nature.
SY: Are there any traditional techniques or modern innovations you incorporate into your designs?
KS: We blend traditional techniques with modern innovations to create unique, high-quality rugs. Our hand-knotted rugs, crafted in Nepal, follow time-honored methods passed down through generations, ensuring each piece is a work of art. We also incorporate contemporary materials like velvet nylon for a luxurious sheen, and vegan faux shearling for a soft, eco-conscious alternative. Our tufted and woven designs, made in Asia and Europe, use cutting-edge technology while honoring traditional craftsmanship, allowing us to offer designs that are both timeless and innovative.
SY: Technology-wise, what are you most excited about with your rug tool?
KS: Our innovative rug customization tool offers a seamless design experience. Clients 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 choices, all while saving 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—such as alpaca wool from Peru and shearling from Turkey—are not only luxurious but are also sourced responsibly. We are committed to reducing waste by creating timeless, durable rugs that are built to last, ensuring that our pieces remain part of your home for years to come. Additionally, we continue to explore sustainable alternatives, including the use of vegan faux shearling and low-impact dyes, to offer clients beautiful, environmentally conscious designs. Sustainability isn’t just a trend for us—it’s 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 keep the art of rug-making both relevant and innovative, leveraging technology plays a crucial role in enhancing communication and the customer experience. At Fayette Studio, we use modern tools to connect seamlessly with our mills, allowing for real-time updates and image sharing throughout the production process. This transparency not only gives clients 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 every piece. Additionally, technology helps us avoid mistakes, streamline communication with our weavers, and save precious time. Instantaneous updates and direct communication ensure that each rug meets the highest standards, reducing errors and keeping the process on track. By blending tradition with cutting-edge technology, we can offer clients both a personalized and efficient experience while preserving the art of rug-making.
SY: How do you help clients navigate the often-overwhelming process of selecting the perfect rug for their space?
KS: I guide clients through the selection process by understanding their design vision, space requirements, and personal style preferences. I provide personalized recommendations based on these insights, offering various rug qualities and custom options to suit their needs. Additionally, I offer a rug design tool that allows clients to visualize their choices in different settings, ensuring they feel confident in their decision and excited about the final result.
SY:You have a location in the Hamptons. What are you most excited for in 2025 from Greenwich to the East End?
KS: What started out as a one-time pop-up in the Hamptons is now going to continue to summer 2025 because we had an incredibly positive response. It has motivated us to bring even more curated collections, exclusive collaborations, and artist showcases to the Hamptons while still maintaining our flagship store in Greenwich and servicing clients from New York City to Fairfield County and beyond.
28 Bruce Park Ave, Greenwich, CT 06830
fayettestudio.com