In some respects, the story of the Borak brothers is similar to that of many hardworking immigrants who ultimately achieved the American Dream. However, in other respects, their story is truly unique.

What we know today as Roja Rugs began more than a century ago. The Boraks cut their teeth perfecting their expertise in fine handmade rugs in their home country of Turkey. Sahap’s grandfather—followed years later by his father—traveled to small towns and villages around Eastern Turkey to handpick the finest handwoven rugs, carpets, and textiles straight off the loom and right at the source. Before long, Borak-selected rugs became synonymous with quality, excellence, and value among local and foreign connoisseurs.

Years later, armed with the knowledge of more than 150 years of collective experience, plus years of working up-close and personal with Western tourists and area rug lovers, Sahap and his brothers, opened their Woven Arts Gallery in the historical and picturesque town of Mill Valley in California.

Sahap recalls his grandfather’s mantra: Always present your clients with nothing but the best. It is human nature to be drawn to excellence, and even the most seemingly untrained eye can feel and appreciate true quality! Years later that belief became the backbone of “Roja Rugs”—of course, a dose of Middle Eastern charm and hospitality never hurts!