Cowhide Rugs

Cowhide rugs have been seen quite a bit in the design world lately - and I'm just now getting on the train. I've never been much of a fan of animal prints whether its cowhide, zebra, or the worst - leopard print. My distaste for animal skins included uses in interior design, as well as fashion. I suppose I've always felt its a bit cruel and tacky and too western. I think whats starting to turn my opinion around is the mix of the prints with glamorous furniture and styling - its no longer just for cowboys or those living in Texas. Its for those in a high-rise loft apartment, mid-century ranch, or traditional colonial. The animal skins keep the rooms from feeling too stiff or stuck-up. I really love their organic shape and that they add a bit of earthiness. And with all the cows being eaten, there's gotta be plenty of skins to go around, right? (does that sound too insensitive?!)

Here are some examples I found that I like that represent many different styles of living:

They also have zebra options which is still a cowhide just dyed to look like zebra skin. I don't like these as well as the cowhides, but they still look great in these spaces!

 

So in the coming weeks I may take the plunge and add a cowhide to my office space. I think it would go nicely under my drafting table desk and will keep my high-gloss white bookcases from feeling too pristine. 

 What do you think? How do you feel about cowhide rugs? Classy or cruel?