Cork flooring has long been appreciated for its health & wellbeing properties such as warmth and comfort. Thanks to Recork, you can add sustainability to that list of attributes. The brand’s rugs are a combination of responsibly sourced cork and linen expertly woven using a traditional Portuguese technique. The result is beautiful floor coverings that celebrate nature’s textures and soothing colour palette.

The natural characteristics of cork make these pieces comfortable and supportive underfoot, as well as insulating and noise-absorbing. Oh, and let’s not forget air quality – antimicrobial and hypoallergenic cork improves this, to minimise the risk of irritation.

Recork’s visually arresting rugs are created using an innovative weaving process. Vertical threads of washed linen are combined with horizontal threads of cork combined with reclaimed cotton or ethically produced wool. The technique draws on the time-honoured tradition of Portuguese tapestry making. Artisan weavers use mechanical looms to create complex diamond, chevron and twill patterns that contrast the natural colour of the cork with rich, earthy or neutral textile shades. The technique and blend of materials results in tactile, textured rugs that are naturally flexible and feel soft to the feet and fingertips.

While the Recork team is passionate about creating functional and appealing flooring, there’s a third priority: sustainability. As the brand’s founder, James Scully, says: ‘our products should give back to the planet more than they take.’ Production of the rugs from Recork’s SUGO range begins and ends in Portugal, where the cork is harvested in the Montado – the cork oak forest. Trees hold up to five times more CO2 after their bark has been harvested, making this an effective way to reduce atmospheric carbon. Recork also supports the charitable organisation Fauna & Flora International which works to protect threatened ecosystems around the globe.