Roots: A Blend of Tradition and Innovation in Carpet Design

Assel Baimakhan's Award-Winning Felt Carpets Showcase Kazakh Heritage

Assel's inspiration for "Roots" stems from her desire to preserve the ancient technique of felt carpet making, a craft passed down through generations in her native Kazakhstan. The traditional patterns and the philosophy of her ancestors' life are reflected in her designs, providing a sense of calm and nostalgia. These carpets, known as "Syrmak" in Kazakh, have been a staple in the everyday life of nomads since ancient times.

What sets "Roots" apart from other carpet designs is its unique properties. The carpets are exceptionally dense, offer reduced thermal conductivity, and provide a soft, warm touch. Made from coarse varieties of autumn sheep wool, these environmentally friendly carpets do not require special equipment for production, making them accessible to anyone interested in the craft.

The process of making these felt carpets is a testament to the designer's dedication to authenticity and quality. After shearing the sheep, the wool undergoes a felting process, which involves the use of hot water or steam. This causes the heterogeneous, scaled surface of the hairs to cling to one another, resulting in dense, warm, and tactilely pleasing carpets.

Despite their traditional manufacturing technique, these carpets are designed to last. With proper care, which includes avoiding washing and using specialized equipment for dry cleaning, these carpets can last from 50 to 100 years. Their size specifications are 3000mm in length, 2000mm in width, and 100mm in height.

Assel's "Roots" project is not just a testament to her innovative design skills, but also a tribute to her Kazakh roots. Her work embodies a reverent attitude towards the traditional carpet making technique, patience, and a correct approach to manufacturing. This blend of tradition and innovation has earned her the Silver A' Furniture Design Award in 2021, a prestigious recognition given to designs that showcase outstanding expertise and innovation.