Weaving tradition, luxury, and art since 1954.
Our story began in Spain...
In the mid-twentieth century, Juan de la Rica Basagoiti created the collection that today still bears his name.
His vision was simple: design rugs with the depth and soul to become the antiques of tomorrow.
For decades, we built a reputation on the revival of lost knots and a commitment to impeccable design, inspired by Spain’s Moorish past.
Our archives became a treasure: hand-drawn motifs, rare sketches, and a design language shaped lovingly through generations
But when the founding family prepared to retire, the patterns, sketches, and designs shaped over generations risked vanishing forever.
Meanwhile, thousands of kilometres away in Afghanistan...
Humanitarian work across the country was being abruptly shut down as US government funding was withdrawn — and two people who’d spent years developing the country post-war suddenly found their work ground to a halt.
Donagh Houlihan had spent 15 years working in international development in Afghanistan; the other, Bülent Özozan, had spent almost two decades inside the country’s carpet industry, working directly with weavers and workshops.
So when the opportunity arose in 2025 to acquire Rica Basagoiti — a company whose archive and artistry aligned perfectly with the craft they were fighting to protect — it felt like a chance to finish the mission they started.
And so the company’s new mission was born:
To protect a traditional craft — and its people — and evolve it into modern design.
At a Glance
Our Rugs are..
...They Support…
OUR PROCESS
From loom to legacy…
2. Colour, Design & Size Guidance
We finalise all specifications and confirm production feasibility with our master artisans.
You then receive a comprehensive quotation detailing the entire scope of your new piece of art.
1. Consultation
After you contact us, we conduct a dedicated consultation to define your vision (bespoke or catalogue).
In-person visits and personalised suggestions are available based on your location.
4. On The Loom
We provide regular updates, offering a transparent view of the weaving process, and the stage-by-stage production of your piece.
3. Optional Samples
Production is initiated with a deposit. Material samples can be sent upon request to validate the quality and palette before weaving begins.
5. Delivery
At this final stage, the carpet is shipped directly from the workshop. Once the piece arrives safely in your country, the final balance is settled before collection and you may finally take your first step upon the masterpiece the artisans have woven especially for you.
OUR TEAM
30+ years of experience. 3 people.
1 common goal.
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Bülent Özozan
Director of Operations & Production Manager
With over 15 years of deep expertise focused on the Afghan handmade carpet sector, Bülent is our production backbone.
He serves as the critical link between our workshops and the global luxury market.
His hands-on mastery in project management and international trade and knowledge of manufacturing hubs, ensures our sourcing is not only authentic and ethical but also competitively positioned, driving transparency and efficiency throughout our supply chain. -
Donagh Houlihan
Managing Director
A strategic and technical leader, Donagh’s expertise was forged during his pivotal role transforming the Afghan carpet industry through USAID-funded projects.
He implements state-of-the-art solutions that guarantee production efficiency, rigorous quality control, and crucial supply chain traceability.
Donagh ensures our commitment to sustainable growth is perfectly aligned with the exacting requirements of the global luxury market. -
Baran Özozan
Director of Sales & Marketing
As an entrepreneur and founder of Wæf Rugs, Baran brings artistic innovation and social conscience to our team.
He actively collaborates with digital artists to transform traditional Afghan motifs into contemporary, cultural artefacts, ensuring the preservation of time-honoured techniques.
Baran's vision is deeply committed to social responsibility and connects cultural preservation with economic sustainability for the weaving families in regions like Aqcha.
