Martha Stewart’s first collection of machine washable area rugs will debut at the upcoming NY Home Fashions Market. Shown, MSR179M
NEW YORK -- Lifestyle authority Martha Stewart and area rug licensing partner Safavieh will launch a blockbuster collection of machine washable rugs during NY Home Fashions Market, March 17-20, 2025, at the Safavieh Chelsea showroom at 89 Seventh Ave. in Manhattan.
The 26-piece collection is a deep dive into the category with a range of styles that elevate machine washable area rugs to a new level of design, performance and quality reflective of the legendary Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia brand. Indeed, the designs blend tradition with modernity, introducing looks and colors that are completely new – and distinctively Martha – along with classic Persian motifs to round out the assortment.
Kevin Sharkey, chief creative officer, Home Division at Marquee Brands.
In this exclusive Q&A, we get the behind the scenes product development story from Kevin Sharkey, chief creative officer, Home Division at Marquee Brands, which owns and markets the Martha Stewart brand and other category leading names in fashion and home.
What were the most important criteria for the Martha Stewart brand in the creation of your first washable area rug collection?
KS: All of our rugs and home essentials reflect the values of the Martha Stewart brand: good quality at a value, superior function and innovation, and beautiful design made to elevate the home.
We selected color palettes that are versatile and will work with your existing décor. Of course, comfort and ease of care were also at the top of our list. What could be more convenient than a rug you can throw in the washing machine?
The new Martha Stewart washable rugs lineup from Safavieh features fresh styles in the brands signature style. Shown,
MSRW181B-57
What are some highlights of the washable rug collection? What styles, materials and special features can you tell us about?
KS: There are 26 beautiful designs included in the launch collection, so there is a design to suit everyone’s taste. The durable construction features a power-loomed weave made of super-soft synthetic yarns for incredible comfort underfoot. The slip resistant backing ensures cushioned stability on any surface and each design is kid and pet friendly. You are getting both elevated style and enhanced performance for all your busy living spaces.
Martha Stewart x Safavieh washable rugs feature a durable construction with slip resistant backing. Shown, MSRW112Y-57
How are the new washable area rugs differentiated from other choices in the marketplace – how big a factor is the reliability of the Martha Stewart brand in this category?
KS: The Martha Stewart brand provides trusted, attractive and highly functional designs that make everyday living easier, more beautiful, and always inspiring. We have a reputation of exceptional quality and sophisticated style that people depend on — every product provides a smart solution that fulfills the needs of every room of your home.
Classic motifs get refreshed with a Martha Stewart spin in the new washables rug launch. Shown, MSRW184Q-57
Who is the target customer for your washable rugs versus the existing area rug collection?
KS: It is anyone and everyone who looks for great style, but with the added convenience of machine washing at home. As with our existing collection of area rugs, there truly is a rug design for everyone — from understated and contemporary to statement designs that invite a lot of visual impact to your space. We offer a refreshing range of design styles that everyone will appreciate.
Martha Stewart fans will find a range of treasured patterns in the lifestyle leader’s new machine washable rug collection.
Shown, MSRW113Q
When you design rugs do you do it holistically with the color and style of your other licensed home furnishings products in mind?
KS: The Martha Stewart brand encompasses a complete lifestyle and all of the functions of an efficient, well-appointed home. Our color palettes are always going to be nature inspired and our classic designs are created to enhance and elevate a space.
Because we have a well-defined aesthetic, our designs tend to be versatile and complementary to many different environments. Our beautiful machine-washable rug collection is no exception.
A fresh cheery floral is among the machine washable rug debuts heading to NY Home Fashions Market. Shown, MSRW190K-57
Can you share what the Martha Stewart brand is seeing as the top trends in interior design for 2025?
KS: We don’t focus on trends so much as timeless designs that will always be in style and always look beautiful. There is a movement towards using innovative textiles and materials that are washable, easy to care for, and friendlier to the environment. We are very thoughtful about using sustainable materials or durable materials that will last and that can withstand a lot of wear. It is a very exciting time for interior design. The possibilities are endless.
Martha Stewart x Safavieh's new washable rugs feature the style and quality expected of the lifestyle guru. Above and
below: MSRW187C-57
