The Velvet Collection
The ultimate sensual feel. Comfort and luxury combined. A silky look in the most vibrant of colours. Velvet is all
that. With the Velvet Collection, AW writes a new chapter in the story of Sensualité®. ‘Histoire d’O’ or ‘The story
of O’ if you like. Why velvet? Because the noble and silky fabric definitely is back!
The sign of a truly grand interior is velvet flooring. It is sophistication at its highest, and the embodiment of sensuality. From
the Far East and the Arabic countries, velvet travelled the legendary silk route to Venice, to become the favourite fabric of the
14th century Italian nobility. With its short, dense pile and incredibly soft touch, precious velvet was the ultimate royal choice.
Over the course of the centuries, velvet sometimes fell out of favour, only to return with more fervour. Today, velvet is definitely
back. It is as noble as ever, but has gained a contemporary touch. The renaissance of velvet first appeared in high-end fashion
brands. In interior decoration too, velvet stands for a unique sensory experience. Soft at first glance, and comfortable to the
touch. With its rich texture and chic vibe, velvet is bound to become a perennial part of your home.
That is why AW launches the Velvet Collection as part of its iconic Sensualité® brand. The Velvet Collection presents four carpet
ranges, all named after a strong mythological woman. Each was the inspiration for a carpet that highlights the splendour of
velvet.
OINONE
The nymph Oinone is the first wife of Paris, a Trojan prince. They live a blissful life; still Paris abandons her
for Helena, the queen of Sparta. When Paris is wounded by a poisoned arrow in the Trojan war, he turns
to Oinone again, begging her to save his life with her healing powers. Her wounded pride makes her
refuse, only to profoundly regret it later. Discreet and soft, this velvet carpet is a homage to the peaceful
times about which Oinone reminisces. Its smooth surface holds the souvenirs of tranquil and steadfast
love. You may want to choose Oinone in a fiery red. It is the colour of the wine her name evokes, and a
reminder of her passion.
OMPHALE
If ever there was a strong woman, it must be Omphale, the legendary queen of Lydia. She makes Hercules,
the strongest of gods, her slave, dressing him as a woman and obliging him to spin. As a symbol of her
dominance, she carries his olive wood club and wears the skin of the Nemean Lion he killed. And like its
muse, Omphale carpet is not one to be overlooked. Its lush velvet stands for extreme indulgence that won’t
go unnoticed in any interior. Just allow her to take over. With a halo as golden as a lion’s mane, Omphale in
a yellow tone makes a strong statement.
OREADE
In Greek mythology, the Oreads are mountain nymphs, and protectors of the forest. They are close to the
goddess Artemis and join her when hunting deer and other animals. The Oreads ensure harmony in the
woods, becoming one with nature and wearing hunting trophies with pride. Oreade carpet blends in
naturally, whatever your decorating style. Its velvety softness will create a harmonious connection, bringing
together all elements. For a down-to-earth touch, choose the olive green shade, as it will remind you of how
glorious nature can be.
OURANIA
The goddess of astronomy, Ourania reigns over the heavens and the stars. She carries her universal power
with great wisdom and observes the constellations with respect. Night after night Ourania unravels the
mysteries of the stars, learning how to foretell the future by their arrangement. Choosing Ourania carpet
is inviting a scintillating star to your home. Its dreamy velvet is guaranteed to be the inspiration for starry
nights and imaginative days. The Ourania range contains two heavenly blues, either light or dark. It depends
on how deep you want to peek into the future.