The Artistry of Moroccan Weaving with Maison Toukkani
people • makers
Inspired by generations of Moroccan weavers, founder & designer Khalida Toukkani translates ancient craftsmanship into contemporary art, sharing her vision for a unique & warm home.
Fueled by childhood memories of her grandmother's tales and rug weaving magic, Khalida launched My Moroccan Rug in 2019, which would become Maison Toukkani in 2024. Hand in hand with the finest women cooperatives, Maison Toukkani creates unique pieces, bridging a thousand years of tradition with modern home design.
WEBSITE: maisontoukkani.com INSTAGRAM: @maison_toukanni
Words: designeers
AUGUST 2024
designeers
Could you please give us a quick introduction? Describe what you make and what made you start this business?
khalida
I'm Khalida Toukkani, the founder and designer of Maison Toukkani, a Swiss-based brand rooted in Moroccan heritage. We specialize in blending centuries-old Moroccan weaving craftsmanship with modern design sensibilities. Inspired by generations of Moroccan weavers, I strive to reinterpret ancient techniques into contemporary art forms.
designeers
What inspired you to focus on Moroccan rugs specifically?
khalida
I was born in Morocco fueled by childhood memories of my grandmother weaving rugs. I launched My Moroccan Rug in 2019, which would become Maison Toukkani in 2024. I started by designing Hand made rugs hand in hand with the finest women cooperatives with the purpose of infusing contemporary designs in an old craftsmanship while matching the swiss standard quality. In 2022 I started creating new products from wool weaving. We launched headboards, wall arts and giant ottomans. Maison Toukkani creates unique and innovative pieces, bridging a thousand years of tradition with modern design.
designeers
Are there any traditional elements or techniques in Moroccan rug making that you find particularly fascinating?
khalida
What fascinates me the most is that this weaving craftsmanship is the same as it was 1300 years ago. The only thing that changed are the looms. They used to be made with wood and now they are made with metal. This allows us to create XL rugs.
designeers
There is a lot of timeless craftsmanship incorporated into your pieces. Can you tell us about the creation process?
khalida
I find inspiration for my wool creations in the beauty and intricacies of the natural world. The colors, textures, and patterns of landscapes, plants, and animals often spark my imagination. The LIMA rug was inspired by the white desert in Peru. Personal experiences and emotions also play a significant role, as I translate my feelings and stories into unique, tactile art. Each piece is a fusion of these elements, resulting in a piece that is both aesthetically pleasing and deeply meaningful.
“Our goal is for each creation to become a cherished, generational piece, carrying a legacy of artistry and excellence.”
khalida toukkani
designeers
Your rug pieces have a strong personality and seem destined to be collectable pieces, what is your long-term vision for Maison Toukkani?
khalida
Thank you for recognizing the unique personality and collectible potential of our pieces. At Maison Toukkani, our long-term vision is to create timeless, high-quality rugs that resonate aesthetically and emotionally. We aim to establish Maison Toukkani as a leader in luxury rug design, known for innovation, craftsmanship, and sustainability.
Since this year, we have our own production unit, allowing us total control over our processes and ensuring fair trade production and working conditions. We plan to expand our collection with new, boundary-pushing designs and to foster collaborations with other talented designers.
Our goal is for each creation to become a cherished, generational piece, carrying a legacy of artistry and excellence. We envision Maison Toukkani as a household name in luxury design, celebrated for its distinctive style and quality.
designeers
Do you have a personal favourite design or collection? If so, why?
khalida
My favorite collection is PELICAN BAY, a series of six giant wall art pieces I created for the Common House Nola, a hotel in New Orleans. Designing these giant artworks for the lobby walls was an exciting challenge, especially since I was given complete creative freedom. The result surpassed my expectations. Today, one of my 3-meter-tall palm trees adorns the walls of a historic monument in New Orleans, alongside an equally impressive, large-scale Pelican.
designeers
What are some of the inspiration heroes in the design industry you look up to?
khalida
I am a big fan of Michel Ducaroy's work, the designer of the iconic Togo sofa. Regardless of its color, a Togo always remains magnificent. When it comes to design, I have a strong appreciation for the styles of the 60s and 70s.
designeers
On your coffee table right now?
khalida
Two books. “Marrakech Flair” from Assouline to keep an eye on my beloved Morocco and “Changer l’eau des fleurs” from Valérie Perrin. I love reading in French.
designeers
Best design hotel in the world?
khalida
For me it’s the Royal Mansour in Marrakech. It’s majestic and peaceful.
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