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Blog No. 3 – My experiences with outdoor rugs: designs, colors, sizes & regional differences
Excerpt for Block 3: In Block 3 I share my experiences with outdoor carpets in Switzerland: How differently colors and designs are perceived in German-speaking Switzerland, Ticino and Romandie – and why this diversity has shaped my path.
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Blog No. 2 - My experiences in selecting and sourcing outdoor carpets
How it all began: The search for the right partners After I had developed my first outdoor carpets, it quickly became clear: If I want to consistently deliver high quality, I need manufacturers that: have genuine expertise in the field of outdoor carpets, work reliably be able to implement beautiful designs and above all: deliver consistent quality . I visited various European companies, held discussions, ordered samples, tried everything out — and yes, that cost a lot of money. But I wasn't completely satisfied with some things: the quality wasn't always right, the presentation wasn't consistent, or the overall feeling just wasn't right. And this gut feeling is extremely important to me. The thought of India had been in my mind for a long time, but with reservations. India was a topic that interested me from an early age. It boasts a centuries-old textile and carpet tradition — craftsmanship that is rarely found elsewhere . But: India doesn't exactly have a reputation for the highest reliability. Everyone I asked said: "We have stopped working with India." But I didn't let that deter me. Because no matter the country, there are good companies and not-so-good companies. And I wanted to find the right ones. Taking a step into the unknown – and a high financial risk. I knew: If I'm going to do this, I'm going to do it right . So I invested — a lot. I have: various designs developed Different strengths tested, Versions with and without fringes were ordered. produced in many color variations , and in the end over 1000 m² of carpets were ordered. And that's despite the fact that at the time I only knew the company through conversations and video calls. It was a complete leap of faith. I sent money to India — and then had to wait 4–6 months until production was finished. The moment of truth: One truck, nine pallets and 70-kilo carpets One day, a huge truck was parked in front of my warehouse. Nine large pallets. Each one full of outdoor carpets. Back then I had no pallet jack, no structure, no professional warehouse — nothing at all. I carried every single carpet up two floors. Some carpets were 3×4 meters in size and weighed 60–70 kilos . I was completely exhausted after that day. But: It was one of the most important days of my business, for me and for the Martin Gabriel brand. Because this is where my own outdoor carpet business began. First customers, first hotels, first mistakes – and a lot learned. Over time I have: furniture stores private customers Hotels planners and architects worked. I learned what works, what doesn't work, which colors are popular, which are less so, what different countries prefer — and how different tastes can be. For example, I was told at the beginning: "Fringes never work on outdoor carpets." And those fringed rugs were exactly the first ones I sold. That's life. Why India is the best partner today Of course, India is far away. But I have learned: Good companies are everywhere . Bad companies too. But close partnerships , trust and quality** arise when you persevere and invest — financially and emotionally. Today I have: the right manufacturers very close personal contacts a reliable supply chain rigorous quality controls perfectly coordinated color and design palettes and outdoor carpets that meet my requirements I learned everything from scratch: Transport, shipping, customs, paperwork, warehousing, packaging, quality control — simply everything. And that's precisely why I can offer a product today that I stand behind 100%. What this path means for my clients This long journey has led to me being where I am today: can offer fast delivery times Stock available in Switzerland can offer high-quality outdoor carpets that are extremely durable have designs that are based on real needs , not trends and above all: bring real practical experience That's what makes my product range so strong today – and sets me apart from many other suppliers.
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Blog No. 1 - Why I started developing outdoor rugs
Why outdoor rugs? The story behind my collection The idea of developing outdoor rugs didn't come about spontaneously. It's been with me for eight to ten years – since the moment international brands like B&B Italia , Cassina , Minotti , and Flexform began presenting their first outdoor collections. And I'm deliberately referring to these brands because they are among the big players and have always focused primarily on indoor furniture. Gradually, each of these companies emerged and suddenly included outdoor furniture in their product range, thus recognizing the gap and potential in the market. I loved outdoor furniture from an early age. And I quickly realized: When furniture is moved outdoors, the carpet automatically follows. But the market wasn't ready yet. The change: Life is increasingly taking place outdoors Even back then, it was clear that our climate was changing and becoming more Mediterranean. Terraces, balconies, and gardens were increasingly becoming living spaces that merged with the interior. Materials became more durable, textures softer, and colors more elegant. For me it was clear: An outdoor rug is not an accessory – it is the foundation. Space is created by him. Inside and out. But the industry treated outdoor carpets as a by-product. Customers had to proceed cautiously – and the market was full of cheap goods that were sold at high prices. I knew: This can be done better. Much better. Quality first – and why handmade is indispensable An outdoor rug has to do a lot: Weather, UV radiation, temperature changes, dirt, moisture, usage. And yet he should: be soft appear high-quality Aging beautifully impress with its design Machine-made goods could only do this to a limited extent. Handwoven carpets, however, are allowed. They are more pleasant to the touch, softer to the touch, more beautiful in appearance – and they convey quality that you can see and feel. But the real challenge was not the production, but the search for a manufacturer that: reliably delivers international quality understood neatly packaged constantly being produced remains punctual This search took years. I visited, tested, and eliminated many companies – until I landed on the partner that met my standards in every respect. Why I was the only one who took the risk: Inventory A major problem in the market: All major brands offer outdoor carpets only on request . Samples are available – delivery takes 8–12 weeks. This is difficult for customers and retailers. People want to see, feel, buy – now . I therefore consciously took a risk: I had each design mass-produced. in clearly defined standard sizes: 160×240 , 200×300 , 300×400 cm , and set up a large warehouse . This was necessary because, in order to even work with me, the manufacturer required a minimum production run per design. Only in this way could I guarantee quality – and at the same time offer outdoor rugs that were available for immediate delivery . Today, that is precisely one of my greatest advantages. Suitable for all weather conditions: tested in Ticino I tested my carpets myself under real-world conditions – for a year in Ticino. Result: The carpets hold up without any problems. Moisture is not a problem Color and structure remain stable Cleaning is easy Maintenance is minimal and logical (as with any outdoor product) In winter, you simply roll it up and store it in a dry place – that's all you need. Why I am convinced I love outdoor living. I love materials. I love quality. And I am convinced: An outdoor rug instantly changes the quality of life in an outdoor space. Walking over it barefoot – that's the difference. I invested a lot of money, time, and passion. I tested, discarded, and improved. I learned which structures work, which fibers prove their worth, and how to keep transport, storage, and replenishment efficient. Today I know: It was worth it. And this collection is just the beginning.
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