We’d like to express a special thanks to all the Rug vendors at Cover Connect New York 2026.
Excitement was in the air with the arrival of the 5th COVER Connect New York and anticipation was high for vendors and visitors alike. But with a huge Nor’easter bearing down on the Big Apple threatening to put a damper on the event, worries did abound. Thankfully, the storm held off long enough for ease of travel and everyone was present and optimistic. Rugs were fully displayed — from aubusson to oriental, antique to modern, distressed to fantastically distressed. Minimalistic designs had a bespoke presence. Ornate rugs commanded your attention and were conversation starters. There was a fusion of color and depth, using modern design, botanicals and fauna. There were inspirations from your imagination, ancient friezes and the smallest
creatures that share our planet. There were marvelous displays of design, technique and fastidious production.
As always, there were trends. But there was also a nod to historic tradition as well. The use of modern color and bold graphics by today’s designers meld the old into the new making fresh the patterns of yesteryear. When you see these products up close and in person the craftsmanship of the beautiful textiles is immensely impressive. The time spent and the detail involved evokes a love and passion for the craft. It is the essence of our industry.
When it came time for the Q-and-A, everyone we spoke to was compassionate and eager to share their knowledge. We asked them which designs buyers were most excited about, what trends they see leading into 2027, how they see AI factoring into the rug industry, what new developments they see in rug making and more.
Not only did each vendor provide unique answers, but they gave their individual insight into the challenges and rewards of an ever-changing industry. There were discussions on the variations of the hottest trends, where buyers and sellers alike try to discern the client’s true needs and wants. There were insights into the oldest methods of production using little modern machinery to the newest strategy of using AI for design.
The overall consensus was optimistic about the industry direction and the momentum behind a new generation of rug buyers and sellers. The future is bright, bold, colorful, full of varied fabrics styles, designs and thrilling techniques yet to be unearthed.
Look for more coverage of the show at ruginsider.com and follow us on Facebook and Instagram to keep up with the latest from Inside the Rug Industry.