Toronto-based Mellah Rugs, founded by Miriam and John, curates handcrafted rugs with a focus on preserving the rich traditions of Moroccan weaving. Dedicated to sustainability and storytelling, Each piece is thoughtfully sourced, showcasing the artistry and heritage of skilled artisans.
Mellah Rugs breathes new life into traditional craftsmanship, curating one-of-a-kind textiles steeped in history. Paired with the artisanal charm of MOMA shoes, the collaboration celebrates a shared commitment to timeless design and quality. Together, they create a story of heritage and artistry, reimagined for modern spaces and wardrobes.
Photography by Aaron Wynia
Tell us a bit about who you are, what you do, and how Mellah began.
We are John and Miriam the founders and owners of Mellah Rugs. We have two kids, two cats and live upstairs from our shop.
We met in New York and lived there for 10 years. Mir worked in fashion and John worked in corporate catering. In 2017, we had our first kid and decided we wanted to return to Toronto to be close to family and to get out of such demanding jobs. So naturally, we started our own business - an endeavour known to be super chill and Mellah was born. For 10 years, we have been importing and selling vintage and modern Moroccan rugs in downtown Toronto.
Wearing the MOMA 52401A
What was the moment or experience that made you decide to open a brick-and-mortar store in Toronto?
We started collecting rugs while living in Marrakech. We knew we wanted to sell them and debated between doing it online or in a physical store. John found a sunlit storefront on College St. at Dufferin Ave. in the Dufferin Grove neighbourhood of Toronto on Craigslist and we decided to go for brick and mortar. It was one of the best impulsive decisions we have ever made. Textiles love to be bought in person!
Mir wears the 86404C and John wears the 57308.
What do you feel sets Mellah apart from other rug or homeware stores in Toronto?
We only focus on rugs from one place - Morocco. At first we wondered if that would be limiting, but 10 years in, it feels great to specialize, to do one thing very well.
Wearing the MOMA 52401A
Do you have a favourite rug in your current collection, and if so, what makes it special?
We love a contemporary style called Ait Hamad. They are not super common and are a little different from typical Moroccan rugs because they are woven on cotton warps. They are extremely soft, have the most amazing colours and designs and are insanely sturdy. We have lived with one in our dining room since we opened the shop and it looks brand new.
Mir wears the 79403A and John wears the 52401A.
How has the Toronto community shaped Mellah’s identity?
It really felt like when we opened, it was the right shop at the right time. Our clients come from all over the city and have been so supportive of the shop. The Roncesvalles neighborhood in particular was such a blessing during Covid when we really were not sure what would happen. We have a unique approach to social media that people tell us they find refreshing and entertaining, while we are serious about our rugs we do not take ourselves too seriously. Recently a couple came in to buy a rug and told us that they had talked about Mellah and our Instagram on their first date, and were so excited to be purchasing a Mellah rug for their first home together. Mir totally teared up.
What pair of MOMAs are you wearing and what made you choose them?
John is wearing the 52401A Moc-toe. The brown is a chill colour and works with John’s uniform of jeans and a hand-knit sweater from Halifax. Mir loves them with his Henry’s jeans!
Mir is wearing the 86404C Ankle Boot. I love the slightly grunge feel with their round shape and durable soles. I love wearing them with baggy jeans and a vintage t-shirt or with an unexpected super feminine outfit.
If you could see Mellah rugs in anyone’s home, who would it be?
This is a fun question! We are pretty lucky to have our rugs in some amazing and inspiring people's homes already. But, to answer the question - Drake?! I heard he had a flood this summer so just putting it out there…
