Frankly Speaking: rugs changing the industry

High quality soft furnishings play an important role in the atmosphere of any space. It’s in these pieces where Frankly Amsterdam excels. Founded in the heart of Amsterdam, the brand specialises in crafting high-end rugs, wall rugs, bed linen and throws. What separates Frankly Amsterdam from other textile manufacturers? Their expertise, speed and the personal touch to their service. With in-depth knowledge of the product, the product development process and aesthetics, the company was founded with the idea of creating a space where everyone benefits. It’s through the three pillars of Frankly Amsterdam; Frankly Collection, Frankly Studio and Frankly Gallery that designers to architects, sales and manufacturing succeed together.

The roots of Frankly Amsterdam stem from sustainability, with a collection crafted from either natural, organic or recycled materials each piece is made only to measure, without stock or waste. Opting only for European production, founder of Frankly Amsterdam, Femke Derks says, "We don’t do sustainability because it is trending, it’s been a part of us from the start. Sustainable materials and local production just made sense to us, I like things to be fair and genuine.”

It’s from natural materials such as mohair, bamboo and eucalyptus that Frankly Collection, the foundational, evergreen collection from Frankly Amsterdam is crafted. Appreciated by interior designers and architects alike, the entire Frankly Collection is fully customisable, handmade to size and coloured to fit the exact look, feel and purpose of a space. Structures drawn from nature and with a particular focus on the quality and finishings ensure the rugs perfectly balance design and function. The turn around time for the customisation process? Only four to six weeks for delivery, while in special cases production can be completed in 48 hours.

But what truly differentiates Frankly Amsterdam from other manufactures is Frankly Studio. The department within the company offering single order, bespoke rug designs. It’s with Frankly Studio clients are encouraged to contribute to the creation of their very own rug. Armed with an enormous range of materials, colours and techniques, it's here where unique custom designs come to life. The in-house designers support even the most seasoned architect though the entire process. Taking them from concept and inspiration, to design and artwork, Frankly Amsterdam aims to keep the collaboration seamless and inspiring. Perfectly balancing the wants and needs of the client with their deep knowledge of design and textiles makes for truly special results.

Some notable collaborations include a residential penthouse project with interior architecture firm Nicemakers. The brief from the clients referenced the tv show Mad Men and a detailed approach meant that every aspect of the home was considered, from the floor plan and bespoke design through to furniture, the rug and art curation. The collaboration with fashion designer Claes Iversen saw 22 uniquely designed tapestries created for Hotel Mercier. This included two wall hangings with multiple pile heights based on the concept for his then upcoming couture collection (pictured below). Working closely with artist Jasper Krabbé, Frankly Amsterdam brought his Japanese paintings to a stunning new medium. Being hand tufted in different heights from thin New Zealand wool and linen, the soft colour palette results in a (wall) rug which most would say is too beautiful to be on put on the floor.

Not limiting themselves to rugs alone, Frankly Amsterdam's entire range of soft furnishings also includes luxury bed linen, throws, and a soon to be released collection of curtains. Clients can choose the composition of the material, size of the sheets and colours to ensure the perfect atmosphere for the space. The brand also offers wall-to-wall contract options, allowing the Frankly aesthetic to inhabit larger scale projects. With a price reflecting quantity, it’s nice to know the quality remains the same. The wall-to-wall option is made from the same high-end sustainable materials the company is known for. When it comes to collaborating with Frankly Amsterdam, Derks says, “We’re about collaborating with architects and designers, and making it as easy and inspiring as possible.”

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