Our Story
About Us
Authentic materials, rich texture and delicate design balance are core to our artisan heritage.
HERITAGE
Our Ethos
We believe in Good Design, that the products we make should be both beautiful and practical. We develop our products with an ethos firmly rooted in heritage and craftsmanship, using experimentation in colour, pattern and texture to maintain a contemporary edge.
We are committed to using the best possible materials and are proud of our British production.
HERITAGE
Our Methods
Our runners are woven in the UK on specially adapted Hattersley looms using our own specially developed 100% Wool yarn that is spun and dyed in Yorkshire.
A skilled team of craftspeople are involved at every stage of production, with all finishing done by hand. Staying true to traditional techniques keeps our designs tethered to the people and processes involved in their production.
“Our rugs and runners are timeless examples of both heritage and innovation.”
DRUGGET RUNNERS
The Beginning
In 1987 the owners of a grand country residence approached Roger Oates and Fay Morgan with an historic flatwoven fragment which had been uncovered by National Trust Scotland at Kellie Castle in Fife.
These types of coverings, common in the 18th century were usually plain in colour and void of pattern. This unique piece, worn and heavily faded, revealed vibrant colour choice and deliberate pattern design. Instantly inspired, Roger and Fay began a journey that would see them develop Venetian Flatweave into the highly distinctive decorative modern floorcovering it is today.
DESIGN FOCUSSED
Innovation in Design
Our very first runners were hand woven, before traditional Hattersley fabric looms were modified to weave the heavy wool flooring, retaining the distinctive hand-woven quality and selvedge. The captivating striped designs quickly became popular, re-inventing flatweave flooring for the 20th century.
Since then our story has evolved and while we continue to revisit our rich archives, our strong design focus and desire to experiment moves us forward, connecting our heritage with contemporary design for the homes of the 21st century.
Made in the UK
Our Environment
Our head office and workshop lie at the foot of the Malvern Hills in Herefordshire, surrounded by picturesque green space and woodland. Set within gardens and an orchard are 19th century stable buildings, the largest of which is a former cattle barn known as ‘The Long Barn’. The Grade II listed property and its outbuildings have been home to our offices, design studio, workshop and hand-loom since 1994. Our company has grown and evolved within these inspiring surroundings.
Our Ledbury Showroom is tucked away on Tinsmiths Alley a short walk from the Ledbury Design Quarter and only a few miles from our Eastnor Head Office and Workshop.
Our London Studio sits on the banks of the Thames in Chelsea, a bright and open former industrial space with boundless light and character. Here we are perfectly placed in the heart of the design district, displaying our full collections.
Roger Oates Design is an accredited member of the Good Business Charter.
The organisation aims are to recognise, champion and encourage responsible business behaviour for the benefit of people and planet.
Roger Oates Design meets or exceeds the 10 component areas which collectively cover care for employees, suppliers, customers and the environment.
These components are: Real Living Wage; Fairer Hours and Contracts; Employee Wellbeing; Employee Representation; Equality Diversity and Inclusion; Environmental Responsibility; Paying Fair Tax; Commitment to Customers; Ethical Sourcing; Prompt Payment to Suppliers.
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