our story
After years of experience in antique carpet trade and restoration across North America, Patrick Chiloian I (the “first”) laid the foundations of Chiloian Gallery in 1979 by founding “Old World Rugs”, a retailer, wholesaler, and restorer of antique rugs, carpets, and textiles.
Based in Beverly Hills, the business was founded with one goal in mind; building the world’s finest collection of paintings that would cover one’s flooring; antique carpets.
Patrick's journey led him to travel the globe searching for hidden gems of the antique carpet world. While most of the collecting consisted of scouring souks, bazaars, fairs, and marketplaces in carpet producing regions, the collection process has also been complemented via direct access to a wide network of museums, private collections, and auction houses throughout Europe and North America.
Patrick was soon joined by his brother, Tony Michael Chiloian, who set up operations in Lebanon in 1990. Starting with a small shop in Rabieh, the brothers started building a presence in the Lebanese market, which had historically been split into two; either traditional/classical antique carpets or contemporary-styled new production carpets. Chiloian Gallery offered a unique value proposition to the market; modern/deco inspired antique carpets fit for both classical and contemporary designed living spaces.
Collaborating with some of the Middle East’s most notable decorators and interior designers, Chiloian Gallery has been proudly catering to a Lebanese clientele with both local roots and a cosmopolitan diaspora, in addition to servicing its international client base.
In 2003, Chiloian Gallery opened a state-of-the-art restoration atelier in Lebanon providing a vital outlet for expert carpet repair, restoration, and cleaning services for its valued clients.
In 2010, the brothers opened their flagship showroom in Monot Street, Beirut to be at the heart of the city and to be closer to its client base. Designed by Serge Brunst, the gallery offers the proper setting and ambience for clients to select the ideal decorative carpets for their living spaces.
In 2021, the two brothers were joined by Tony Michael’s son, Patrick Chiloian II (the “second”) officially marking the entry of the 2nd generation into the business.