Kilim Ottomans

Caroline Patterson Interior Design Expert

Caroline is a young, New York-based interior designer and home decor writer, obsessed with textiles and designer furniture. Backed with rigorous training from a prestigious design school, as well as a profound understanding of material quality and fabric care, she offers spot-on advice on how to furnish your place with reliable, functional, and aesthetically pleasing pieces.

Updated 24/03/2021

A lovely find, these Kilim ottomans are a very popular item that speaks to an area in the Middle East and India where these styles are quite common. Hand-woven and with many cultural designs, they are lovely, supported by attractive wooden legs, and will be the perfect way to accent an appropriately decorated space. Great for sitting. See collection for more.

Buying Guide

Kilim is a type of flatweave often seen in Turkey and surrounding areas, including northern Africa, Central Asia, and China. Characteristics of Kilim include the pattern is woven in, not attached, it does not have a pile, and the patterns are often created diagonally to avoid developing slits in the fabric. It is a sturdy fabric often used in rugs, cushions and – of course – ottomans. The colors are bright, and are often geometric, although they can sometimes be floral. The traditional handcrafted fabrics create unique items, whether it is a kilim ottoman, rug or pouf.

What are some examples of the most attractive kilim ottomans?

A sturdy cube

Imagine a sturdy cube made of kilim. The fabric is a rusty red, decorated with what appears to be a spray of flowers or perhaps a snowflake. Bold wall of Troy patterns in white, march across the rust red. This tough, cube-shaped pillow can travel many miles, and endure being sat upon many times without losing its shape. The unique weaving style known as kilim adds durability as well as beauty.

Traditional stripes in neutral colors

In understated gray with lighter pinstripes, with a sturdy frame that stands upon four small wooden legs and supports a buttoned pillowtop, this style is a perfect combination of style and functionality. It is easy on the eyes and can readily blend with a conservatively toned room.

Bold pouf with a striking geometric pattern

Enjoy a bold pouf with a striking geometric pattern on its sides and top. A corded seam on each end helps it stand up, and adds interest to the overall appearance. The shape is something like a tubby soft drink can – but far more attractive, and definitely softer. Use it to prop up your feet at the end of a long day or offer it to a pint-sized guest as a seat. It is sure to delight and to elicit comment from people who appreciate woven crafts.

Tripod camelback ottoman

There is no form stronger than a tripod, and that is shown with a camelback ottoman. Three carved legs are shaped to resemble a camel head and leg, then slotted together to form a hollow where a cushion made from kilim rug material is nestled. It forms the perfect place for your feet to rest from your personal safari. The camel heads remind one of the long tradition of trade goods carried across the Sahara on the padded feet of those tall beasts.

What accessories pair well with kilim ottomans?

Add interest to your ottoman by teaming it up with a matching kilim rug. Add a kilim pouf pillow or two, especially if the ensemble is intended for a child’s room. The bright rug and comfortable pillows make a pleasant place to lounge or play.

Regardless of the style of ottoman you select, kilim fabric will make it special. The handwoven unique designs are created with both beauty and durability in mind. Like all handcrafted items, the uniqueness of the design is the special part.