The right rug can really pull a room together. Quintessentially Melbourne brand Zebra Home has become synonymous with stylishly practical rugs that are the perfect fit for Australian living. We are thrilled that they will be exhibiting alongside Studio Elwood at Stand G28 of Decor + Design, 16 – 18 July at Melbourne Exhibition Centre. Friends and collaborators, Zebra Home founder Monique Godby and Studio Elwood’s Tory Burke will be showcasing gorgeous rugs and impactful art that together make a room resonate.
Deeply influenced by Melbourne’s vibrant design culture, Zebra Home blends the city’s laid-back charm with a touch of European sophistication, resulting in timeless pieces that have found a home across Australia, New Zealand, Northern Europe, and the United States. They proudly balance natural materials, traditional craftsmanship and thoughtful design to produce high-quality rugs that cater to diverse lifestyles and aesthetics.
As they prepare to showcase their stunning range at Decor + Design, discover what makes Zebra Home a standout choice for both designers and homeowners alike.
Zebra Home is proudly Melbourne-designed and owned. How does being based in Melbourne influence your design philosophy and approach to creating rugs?
It’s a huge part of who we are! Melbourne is a total design mecca, truly buzzing with creativity, and that definitely seeps into everything we do at Zebra Home. We’re all about that relaxed, effortless Australian living vibe – creating spaces that feel stylish but are also super comfortable and inviting. There’s also a cool European influence in Melbourne’s design scene, which adds a layer of sophistication to our approach. We love to blend that global inspiration with what Australians really want in their homes: beautiful pieces that don’t compromise on practicality or laid-back style.
Image: Zebra Home
Zebra Home caters to both retail and wholesale markets in Australia, New Zealand, Northern Europe and the United States. How do you ensure your designs meet the diverse needs of these audiences?
It’s amazing how universal good design can be! Our rugs are designed to be incredibly versatile, and that’s why they’ve found homes in so many places – from the vibrant energy of Sydney and Perth to the beautiful spaces in Auckland, the classic charm of New York and LA, and even the unique aesthetics of Finland. We focus on timeless designs, neutral color palettes, and a variety of textures that seamlessly fit into different aesthetics and lifestyles. Whether it’s a coastal retreat, a modern city apartment, or a classic European home, our rugs just seem to click, providing that perfect foundation for any space.
Your rugs are celebrated for their texture, practicality, and durability. What is your process for balancing materials with style with functionality in your designs?
Image: Zebra Home
That balance is really at the heart of Zebra Home. We choose natural materials like jute and wool because they’re not only beautiful but also incredibly robust, breathable, and durable – perfect for everyday life. Then, we work closely with our incredible team in India. They’re a fourth-generation business, and their artisan skills and experience are just phenomenal. They use age-old techniques to produce substantial, beautifully textured rugs, ensuring each piece feels really well-made, not flimsy. It’s that blend of natural beauty, traditional craftsmanship, and thoughtful design that makes our rugs stand out.
How do you ensure the quality of each piece?
Quality is non-negotiable for us. It all starts with sourcing – we only partner with reputable, skilled manufacturers. I’ve personally visited the facilities to ensure they meet our high standards for best practices, ethical production, and overall quality. It’s about building trust and transparency. We’ve been importing these products for five years now, and honestly, we haven’t had any major issues, which speaks volumes about the dedication and skill of our artisans and partners.
As an exhibitor at Decor + Design, what do you hope to showcase about Zebra Home, and what message do you want visitors to take away about your brand?
We’re so excited to be at Decor + Design! What we really want visitors to take away is simple: Zebra Home rugs sell. And why do they sell? Because we offer a truly quality product, rooted in sustainability, and backed by really reliable and accessible customer service. We make sure we have stock on hand and offer fast shipping, which is a huge plus for our partners. Plus, our collection is simply beautiful – a stylish range of neutral colors, patterns, and sizes that makes it easy for designers and retailers to find something for everyone. We truly believe for all these reasons, Zebra Home rugs really stand out from the crowd.
Image: Zebra Home
Are there any upcoming collections you’re excited to share?
Absolutely! We’re thrilled about our new indoor/outdoor collections. We’re incorporating more recycled plastic (PET) materials, which is fantastic for sustainability. What’s even better is that these rugs are washable, making them incredibly practical, and you won’t believe how soft they are underfoot. They really push the boundaries of what you expect from an outdoor rug, bringing that same comfort and style you’d want inside, but with all the durability for any space.
Don’t miss seeing Zebra Home at Decor + Design 2025, 16 – 18 July in Melbourne. Meet Monique and also Tory Burke from Studio Elwood at Stand G28. Register now to visit – entry to the exhibition is free but limited to design trade visitors.