A Whole New World: 12 Luxurious Turkish Fabrics That’ll Transform Your Home

Article Featured in Boston Magazine Online! 

Holding what’s said to be “the finest needle in the world,” few fabrics define a home the way those from Turkey can. After all, the Turks were originators of the woven art centuries ago when enchanted tales of flying carpets delighted crowds.

Now — a world away at full-service home décor shop, Zimman’s in Lynn — Turkish fabrics are sought by homeowners and decorators who shop over 50,000 fabrics, rugs and lighting, custom window treatments, furniture, and re-upholstery services suitable for sultans.

And while ornate, richly-colored Turkish fabrics must be seen in person to be truly appreciated, we found these ones particularly mesmerizing while perusing the Best of Boston winner’s extensive fabric floor:

Luxe in translation

To enter a foyer graced with an upholstered bench or chairs made of this rich and colorful fabric would truly be like entering an opulent Ottoman palace. A perfect blend of exotic elegance, this exceptionally lush, multi-hued textile reminiscent of Adana, Turkey is made of chenille and features a lovely paisley print

Shining, shimmering, splendid

What better way to create a sophisticated sitting space than with wingback chairs upholstered with elegant fabric and golden detail that shines? Named after Erzurum, Turkey this is a versatile option available in several colors, making is easy to incorporate a subtle touch of glamour anywhere you please.

A time-honored tradition

Give your master bedroom the royal treatment by dressing it up with this dignified ikat fabric named for Ankara, Turkey. Woven from dyed chenille yarns to create a navy and gold pattern, it’s a lavish textile we’d love to use to upholster a magnificent headboard. Want your entire home to feel cushy? Create accent pillows that can be used elsewhere, making comfort customary in every room!

Think outside the box

This spectacular textile donning illustrious characters from another ancient culture is anything but boring. Named for Adapazari, Turkey it’s a welcomed departure from traditional patterns and serves as an exceptionally intriguing textile that’d make for a great artisanal conversation-piece in a home office or study.

Artful origins

Who says you can’t have fun juxtaposing primitive patterns with otherwise contemporary décor? This textile reminiscent of Antalya, Turkey features a tribal design that’s available in an array of vibrant colors that could liven up any minimalist space. Admire the detail of the stitching that will pop-off as custom curtains or kitchen linens that’ll add more joy to cooking.

Indulge in Old World opulence

This detailed textile from Bursa, Turkey is a real showstopper! Vibrant with exotic flair, this artfully-woven textile compliments spaces that are utterly stupendous. We can picture an eclectic, Bohemian-style pad incorporating floor-length curtains so the ornate pattern and jewel tones throughout create a dazzling display.

Shades of grey

Try this subdued textile reminiscent of Denizli, Turkey for a more contemporary look made from mottled chenille. The textured fabric is comprised of slate grey and black yarns, whose cool tones will give any bedroom or living room a no-frills, modern vibe.

Style that soars

This fabulously ornate option represents Istanbul, Turkey and is a prime example of the incredible detail that goes into traditional Turkish textiles. Use this mosaic-style tapestry featuring florals and dynamic color as a carpet, or upholster kitchen bar stools to match tiles and backsplashes.

The bold and the beautiful

Featuring a traditional Turkish pattern reminiscent of Izmir, Turkey, this satin ikat with a bold color pallet is looming with cheer! Consider it for a special rocker in a nursery or for window treatments in a child’s bedroom, or pump new life into a tattered armchair that needs reviving.

Special treatment

Don’t discount what a little texture can do for a space! Named for Malatya, Turkey this fabric offers distinct style that’s pleasing to the eye and to the touch. We’d love to see this wonderful, textured fabric as upholstery for a sleek sofa and throw pillows that’ll add pizzazz to any corner of your home.

On the line

Named for Mersin, Turkey this Kilim fabric features detailed vertical stripes we give five stars. The thick material is suited for furniture re-upholstery projects from chairs to footstools and can make a big impact in contemporary or more traditionally-styled homes.

Make any chair a throne

Even ruins can be made regal when this plush velvet number reminiscent of Samsum, Turkey makes its way into a re-upholstery project or two. Make yourself head of the table every night with chairs eloquently displaying the regal, free-form fabric. Want to cloak yourself in comfort? Try the royally-hued fabric for bedding that’ll be fit for a king.