Arzu Studio Hope rugs empower Afghani women

The modern furnishings store Design Within Reach is partnering with Arzu Studio Hope to offer a collection of limited-edition handmade rugs available at a Los Angeles trunk show Oct. 29.

Arzu Studio Hope is a nonprofit social enterprise that supports women in Afghanistan by selling the rugs they weave at home, where they can care for their families. The goal is to give women above-market compensation so they and their families have access to education and healthcare in the war-ravaged country.

The hand-spun wool rugs that DWR has selected will be offered at trunk shows in five cities. Each location will have five designs exclusive to that city. The trunk show held at DWR's Beverly Boulevardlocation will include Potential, left, designed by Ben Holiday (7-foot-10 by 5-foot-2, $3,900) and Winter, right, by Thomas Schoos (9-foot-1 by 6 feet, $5,300). In addition, three Arzu rugs will be available online beginning Oct. 10.

-- Lisa Boone

Photo credit: Arzu Studio Hope