The project consisted on the creation of a set of bespoke dhurrie type rugs designed by Patricia Urquiola for an urban hotel installation located in the city centre of Milan, Italy. The dhurrie is a thick flat-woven rug traditionally used for bedding, packing and decorative purposes in India. At the Room Mate Giulia, the rugs are located within the reception lounge of a 19th century historical building converted to an 85-room hotel for the Room Mate chain. The hotel lobby is a double height space accessed directly from the street, defined by an eclectic collection of wall materials; timber panelling, white plaster, curved brick wall and terrazzo tiles with a series of artworks positioned at eye level. The designer has created a ‘lounge’ feel for this area with a collection of individual tables, chairs and sofas organised within two islands anchored by the rugs on either side of the path from front door to reception desk. The colour scheme, pattern and border detail of the rugs must therefore integrate the existing neo-classical shell and contemporary character of the lobby furniture as well as referencing the other materials that define the lobby space. In order to do so, two very large dhurrie rugs –much larger than usual- were handmade on a specially designed loom using an overlaid series of grid patterns. The rugs bring warmth to the reformed room and tie together the impressive contemporary decor.