Tai Ping Carpets

TAI PING is delighted to present Ami, an avant-garde collection of rugs conceived by Hong Kong architects and interior designers Ed Ng and Terence Ngan, co-founders of AB Concept. The six designs in oval, round and rectangular shapes redefine the classic silhouette of cable knit with a fresh twist, combining technical expertise with classic skill to create a quiet sense of beauty. Craft and materiality are hallmarks of Ed Ng and Terence Ngan. Ami is a reflection on scenery and heritage, incorporating natural wool and traditional knitting patterns inspired by Ed’s grandmother. The concept was born when they designed a plush cable-knit rug in flawless beige-cream for their country home deep in the Karuizawa forest, an hour by train from Tokyo. The mountains there are very cold in winter, and Ed and Terence wanted to create a sumptuous rug that would balance the dramatic surrounding landscape. With comfort in mind, they began to experiment with re-interpreting a classic cable-knit pattern as a 4 by 5.5-metre rug. Ed says “I have always been fascinated with craft, and knitting in particular. Ever since I was a child, knitting has been associated with a genuine expression of warmth and caring. My memories of watching my grandmother knit jumpers for us mean there is a timeless emotional connection through a handmade object. We liked the idea of creating a sense of down-to-earth relaxed luxury that also embraces values of sustainability.” Working closely with Tai Ping’s artisans, the designers explored the pure geometry of knitting with mathematical precision, using hand-tufted techniques. Special hand-finishing includes needle point, crochet, carving and bevelling with cut and loops, and multiple piles highlight the sculptural three-dimensional woven landscape. The result, a warm blend of soft, handmade carpets like hand-knitted sweaters, was so unexpectedly beautiful that it kindled the concept of a collection in autumn palette such as burnt orange, mustard yellow and sage with wool as the only material, experimenting with different techniques and accents created by needlepoint to mimic knitting. “We were so excited when we saw the result of the first rug,” Ed says, “The patterns are very simple and elegant yet quite complex, and the juxtaposition of geometric shapes creates a fresh, contemporary feel. It felt right for a living room where the panoramic view of nature is the main attraction. I was fascinated by how we could achieve a very different look with one material – wool – using different patterns and heights.” Michelle Chu, design director of Tai Ping in Asia, says: “We are delighted to show these new pieces at our London showroom, and to work with Ed and Terence to create such an innovative rug that still honours heritage, tradition and nature.” ABOUT AB CONCEPT Design studio AB Concept was founded in Hong Kong in 1999 by architect Terence Ngan and interior designer Ed Ng. Over the past twenty years they have built up a global commercial and residential portfolio, bringing the human and aesthetic values of their clients to life. AB Concept also designs furniture, lighting and textiles, combining rigour with warmth, and enhancing quality of life. Their mission “translates intangible emotions into tangible realities, designing for experience and memory together.” ABOUT TAI PING For over six decades, Tai Ping has been creating meticulously crafted products which are admired and celebrated by the world's most discerning clientele. Gracing the floors of the most prestigious residences, boutiques, hotels, private jets and yachts around the world, Tai Ping is globally renowned, winning international acclaim for its innovative designs, superior quality, and unparalleled concierge service. Headquartered in Hong Kong, Tai Ping has 14 showrooms across Europe, Asia and North America.