The Leslie Cat Rug is our own collaboration with the illustrator Karen Mabon, made for us by the Dutch homeware brand Doing Goods. Here's the story of how three very different makers came together on one playful rug, what it's made from, and how to get hold of one, because it is sold only in our Somerset shop.
How the Collaboration Came Together
At Courthouse Interiors we love artist-led designs, and Karen Mabon's characterful illustration is exactly that. The Leslie Cat Rug was designed with Karen exclusively for Courthouse Interiors and features one of her most recognisable feline illustrations.
To bring the design to life we turned to our friends at Doing Goods, known for their hand-tufted animal rugs. The result brings together Karen's storytelling, Doing Goods' craftsmanship and our own eye for pieces with personality. It's a rug that works on the floor, but it's just as happy hung on a wall as a piece of art.
About Karen Mabon
Karen Mabon is a London-based designer and illustrator known for storytelling through print. She studied at the Royal College of Art and launched her eponymous label in 2013, quickly becoming recognised for her intricate, narrative-driven silk scarves. Her work has since grown to include apparel, accessories and homeware.
Growing up in the Black Isle in Scotland, Karen was inspired by nature, vintage collectables and old Hollywood glamour. Her designs bring characters, creatures and curiosities to life, and she has collaborated with an eclectic range of brands, from museums and palaces to skincare, films and even airports.
If you'd like her illustrations around the table too, the Karen Mabon Linen Napkins, Set of 4 carry the same illustration on each napkin with a different coloured border. You'll find more in our Karen Mabon collection.
About Doing Goods
Doing Goods was founded in 2010 by Aanyoung Yeh and Jan Swinkels and is based in the Netherlands. Inspired by the Japanese philosophy of wabi-sabi, the brand embraces the beauty of handmade imperfections and celebrates the personal touch of each artisan. It works with small businesses and collectives around the world, with a focus on ethical production.
Its hand-tufted animal rugs, including leopards, giraffes and pandas, have become favourites for adding character to a room. You can see the range in our Tapis Amis collection and the wider Doing Goods range.
What the Leslie Cat Rug Is Made From
- Front: 100% wool
- Reverse: 100% cotton
- Dimensions: 128cm x 103cm x 2cm (L x W x H)
- Made by: Doing Goods, handmade in India
- Certification: GoodWeave certified, supporting fair working conditions and artisan communities
Because every rug is crafted by hand, each one has subtle variations that show the skill behind it, so no two are quite the same.
Where to Buy the Leslie Cat Rug
The Leslie Cat Rug is available only in our shop in Somerset. It isn't sold online, so the best way to see it is in person, where you can feel the wool and judge the size against your own space.
It was made in limited quantities, so if you're set on one, it's worth getting in touch with the team before you travel to check availability. We're always happy to answer questions about the rug, the collaboration or styling it at home.
In the meantime, browse our Courthouse Interiors exclusives for more of our exclusive designs, and come and say hello to Leslie next time you're in Somerset.
