Punto of Istanbul

Buying a Turkish carpet is on a lot of people’s list of things to do in Istanbul but finding a shop you can trust is the problem if you’re not an expert. This family run business is an amazing place and these guys really made our experience a truly memorable and exceptional experience. They spent a lot of time with us without any of the usual pressure. They explained so much we came away feeling like we had attended a master class. And in the end we bought a magnificent carpet that we will likely be passing from generation to generation. If you are considering a purchase I highly recommend this shop.

Highly recommend. Was in Istanbul in Oct2013 and came here on the advice of a friend. Like Honey N’s experience, I could’ve purchased another rug elsewhere, but happy I didn’t. Amazing service, experience, and seeing how these works of art are made gave me an appreciation of their worth. My rug just arrived and I am thrilled-​it brings back wonderful memories of my trip to Istanbul.

Probably my favorite hour in Istanbul was shopping for a carpet at Punto. Truth be told, I probably could have found a carpet in many of the Grand bazaar shops that would have been great, but I went to Punto on a friend’s recommendation and am so happy I did. The kids loved seeing a woman actually making a silk rug and I have to agree – it is amazing to see her work. We were told that she would work for 18 months to complete a 5X7 carpet and her carpets are bought before she finishes them for thousands of dollars.
It is not in the Turkish culture to discuss price before you begin to look which is hard for me because I like to be within a ballpark number. But respecting their culture, I began by saying that I would like to look at some 9 X 12 carpets and told them my color palate. Then the process begins, and carpets are unrolled one at a time and you can look at them and tell the owner what you like and what you don’t. They have every kind of carpet imaginable and every size. i ended up buying a new wool carpet but looked at some stunning antiques and silks.
When I thought it was time to ask about price, I gulped. My carpet that I love and will have forever was double what I expected but I know that it will bring me happiness every time I look at it. i will always remember buying this piece of art with my husband in Istanbul.