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An Irish rugmaker on the importance of personality and longevity when designing your interiors
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We catch up with Martina Navrátilová of Ceadogán Rugs to talk statement-making interior choices and the undeniable charm of a lived-in home.
An Irish luxury textile brand that’s been keeping a family tradition of craft and creativity alive since 1981, Ceadogán Rugmakers was set up by dye house master Tom Ceadogain, before it was acquired by current owners Colm Kenny and Martina Navrátilová in 2000. Partners in life and in business, the pair had been working as makers with a creative mindset, gradually becoming more and more involved in the business.
Each bespoke piece created by the team at Ceadogán sits at the intersection of tradition and innovation. From their coastal Wexford studio, they create exquisite commissions, exciting collaborations with fellow artists, and their signature hand-tufted rugs and textiles.
We sat down with Martina to chat all things interiors and what you should consider when picking the investing rug for your home.
What is your approach to curating your living space — do you opt for minimalism or do you enjoy statement pieces?
We definitely lean toward an eclectic, layered style. We love mixing eras, textures, and tones — there’s something about the contrast between a mid-century armchair, a vintage Irish ceramic, and a bold contemporary print that makes a space feel alive and personal. While we appreciate minimalism in other people’s homes, we gravitate toward statement pieces that tell a story. For us, curating a space is about creating warmth, character, and a bit of surprise.
What other pieces of Irish design adorn your home?
We have a soft spot for Irish design — it’s soulful, often handmade, and deeply connected to landscape and tradition. We have a few ceramic pieces by Andrew Ludick, some Foxford throws, and hand-thrown pottery from Arran Street East. We also love supporting emerging Irish artists and have a few contemporary prints that bring a fresh energy into the mix. The blend of old and new, rural and urban, really mirrors the Irish design spirit.
Ceadogán crafts beautiful, luxury rugs made to last — art for the floor or wall. What do they add to the space?
Ceadogán rugs are absolutely transformative. They add depth and a sense of quiet luxury to a space. Whether they’re on the floor grounding a room, or displayed as wall art, there’s something tactile and timeless about them. Each piece feels intentional and unique — they’re not just rugs, they’re conversation starters, adding texture, warmth and a bit of “wow” without trying too hard!
These are investment pieces, so what should people bear in mind when selecting the right rug design for their space?
Go with your gut, but also consider scale, colour palette, and how the piece interacts with your existing decor. A rug can either subtly tie a space together or act as a bold counterpoint — both approaches work if they’re balanced thoughtfully. Think about longevity too: will you still love the design in ten years? A great rug should outlast trends and tantrums (whether from kids, pets, or indecisive re-decorating phases). If it speaks to you emotionally and works practically with your lifestyle, it’s the right piece.
Do you have any tips or advice for looking after your rug and keeping it good as new?
Treat it with love, not fear. Rotate it occasionally to even out wear, vacuum it gently but regularly, and keep it away from direct sunlight to prevent fading. If disaster strikes (hello, red wine), blot gently and call in the professionals if needed. And don’t be afraid to actually live with it — a little patina only adds to its story and charm over time.
Discover the beauty of contemporary Irish craft with Ceadogán’s hand-tufted rugs — where art and function meet in every thread. Explore custom collaborations and ready-to-buy pieces from their Wexford studio at www.ceadogan.ie.
