Slow Living & Textile Memory
In reflecting on the journey of Moroccan rugs through history, Kasbah Karma aims to prioritize textiles, memory, identity, and slow living through its carefully curated selection of unique Moroccan rugs. Our process prioritizes the preservation of cultural capital and is largely informed by an urgency to preserve the historical dimension of this millennia craft with reverence and humility. Each curated rug is the culmination of countless hours spent identifying the perfect design, with an inclination for bold vibrant colors, intricate patterns, and symbolism such as squares, diamond shapes, and triangles meticulously woven to reflect a harmonious yet dazzling spectacle for anyone looking to surround themselves with a touch of Moroccan elegance and historical depth. These cherished tapis are carefully chosen to resonate with the soulful narratives and rich cultural heritage embedded in every thread, offering not just a piece of decor but a gateway to stories and traditions that span generations.
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Preservation of Cultural Capital
We employ a rigorous vetting process to identify timeless pieces that transcend social and cultural sartorial norms while upholding the cultural legacy of these timeless heirlooms. Once these treasures are unearthed, Kasbah Karma collaborates with skilled textile restorers to meticulously mend any signs of aging. This delicate reweaving and re-knotting process is conducted with the utmost precision to maintain the artistic integrity of each rug while ensuring that the history and spirit embedded within these fibers are preserved. Our sourcing is the culmination of a labor-intensive and lengthy process that takes several months.
Once identified, we work in tandem with a carefully vetted network of textile restorers to restore any defects such as frayed or damaged edges, tears, and holes through a process of reweaving and re-knotting without compromising the structural integrity of these rugs while preserving the minor imperfections that are the hallmark of vintage rugs making them timeless family heirlooms.
Textile & Identity
Conceptualized by Sounia Khadraoui-Johnson, Kasbah Karma's primary aim is to center textile and identity as intertwined elements that provide a cultural touchstone and a personal statement of self-expression for individuals navigating hyphenated identities. Born in Algiers to Amazigh parents, Sounia grew up in Paris, where she developed an appreciation for the city’s amalgamation of art, history, and diverse societal influences that not only shaped her perspective and creative vision but mirrored her own complex identity.
Since moving to Los Angeles, Moroccan rugs have always been a constant thread of stability, an anchor of resilience and radical self-acceptance, weaving together the fabric of identity with each pattern that tells a story of belonging. The idea of Kasbah Karma came to fruition, inspired by the desire to sell sumptuous Moroccan rugs while staying connected with her roots.
Meet the founder
Anthologized by Le Corbusier, the Kasbah symbolizes a fortress and traces its roots in Algeria. It is also associated with the resistance movement during the Algerian War as an emblematic symbol of the indigenous struggle against French colonialism. However, over time, the meaning of Kasbah has evolved to a safe place, a sanctuary, and a haven for anyone looking for shelter. Against this historical backdrop, the idea of Kasbah Karma came to be sparked by a desire to center textile and identity as intertwined elements, providing a cultural touchstone and personal statement of self-expression for individuals navigating hyphenated identities.
With this in mind, Kasbah Karma aims to sell sumptuous Moroccan rugs that tell stories of belonging and resilience, allowing me to stay connected to my roots while holding a sacred container that invites unity, compassion, and tolerance.
