Beni Ourain Rugs: 13 Great Sources

Yesterday, I accidentally stumbled across a rug in Pottery Barn and couldn’t believe my eyes. There before me was a Beni Ourain look-alike.

If you’re not familiar with Beni Ourain rugs, they originate from the Atlas mountains in Morroco where the Beni Ourain tribe handmade them from lush wool trimmed from the sheep they raised. Unlike most Morrocan rugs, Beni Ourain rugs lack color. Instead, their geometric black — or brown — and cream patterns take center stage. Originally, Ben Ourain rugs were used as blankets; however, here in the Western world their main use has been as a floor covering.

In fact, for the past handful of years Beni Ourain rugs have been a designer favorite, popping up on magazine pages here and there. So I guess it was only a matter of time before they were inducted into the Pottery Barn lineup and officially introduced to the mainstream.

The one big benefit? Price. Authentic Ben Ourani rugs can be a bit on the pricey side. But now, that’s no longer an obstacle. You can get the same look at a fraction of the cost thanks to the look-alike versions Pottery Barn — and Anthropologie — are selling. Check them out below. Do you think they look as good as the originals?

If you’d prefer an authentic version like the ones above, I’ve rounded up 12 great sources for you to check out. Given that Beni Ourain rugs are handmade, no two are alike. So I’d greatly suggest checking out the options at all the sources listed below before making a purchase. That way, you’ll be sure you got your favorite pattern.

Keep in mind, if you want an antique or vintage version, Beni Ourain rugs traditionally were made no wider than 7′. So if you find ones wider, they’re more than likely newly made.

12 Places to Find Authentic Beni Ourain Rugs:
1. Berber Arts
2. Beyond Marrakech
3. Boucherouite, Etsy Shop
4. Hannoun
5. Imports from Marrakesh
6. Koco Boutique, Etsy Shop
7. Mara Authentics, Etsy Shop
8. The Moroccan Room
9. Mosaik
10. Muskelil
11. Nazmiyal
12. Red Thread Souk
13. Tazi Designs

Given their minimal — yet not sterile — patterns, Beni Ourain rugs easily fit into any decor style. You’ll find them in rooms from traditional to modern to everywhere in between. Typically, they’re used in neutral or white rooms. But they don’t have to be. Beni Ourain rugs look great in colorful rooms thanks to their neutral color scheme of cream and black or brown.