About Us

Welcome to all my esteemed friends in Istanbul and around the globe as I proudly present the inaugural catalog of Imperio Otomano. On this significant occasion, I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to my loyal customers for their enduring support and friendship over the years. Your trust has been instrumental in establishing and maintaining our reputation as a leader in the industry.

After nearly two decades of serving in the Grand Bazaar, one of the most common questions I encounter is: How can Imperio Otomano offer such competitive prices for high-quality carpets? The answer is straightforward: we eliminate the middleman. Unlike many other shops, which have limited or no direct connections within the rug industry and must inflate prices to cover intermediary costs, we personally source every carpet. Each piece in our collection is handpicked by me, ensuring that you receive superior quality at a lower cost. In fact, I confidently assert that I can surpass the prices of any competitor by at least 25%, while also providing a certificate of authenticity and age for every carpet.

The best measure of a carpet shop's credibility is its repeat business, and Imperio Otomano's enduring relationship with the American diplomatic community is a testament to our excellence. U.S. Consulate personnel, who become discerning buyers after their two- to six-year postings in Istanbul, consistently choose to shop with us. Many have also lived in other rug-producing regions in the Middle East, bringing with them a wealth of expertise. Thanks to their referrals, we have had the privilege of welcoming their friends and families, including members of Congress and Presidents of the United States.

I warmly invite you to visit me at Imperio Otomano. Together, we can explore the rich history and craftsmanship of our carpets over a traditional cup of Turkish coffee or tea. I look forward to welcoming you soon.

Sincerely,

Hakan Evin

Hakan Evin, a third-generation shopkeeper, has roots deeply embedded in the ancient corridors of the Grand Bazaar. "Since childhood, I have dreamed of becoming a rug dealer," he shares, "My love for carpets is as profound as a mother's love for her children."Raised amidst the stacks of mats and the earthy scent of the family’s carpet business, Hakan officially joined the company as an apprentice after high school. He immersed himself in learning the art, culture, and science of carpet making, and naturally, the art of selling them as well.As the owner of his own shop now, Hakan takes great pleasure in educating his clients about carpets, a subject that holds immense historical significance for both his family and the nation. "It’s a great joy for me to share knowledge about something so integral to my family’s legacy and the history of this country," he says.Imperio Otomano, favored by American government officials, has welcomed U.S. Presidents and world leaders for over a decade. However, Hakan remains focused on serving the everyday shopper. He actively engages with expatriate communities and has established lasting relationships with multiple generations of families residing in Istanbul. "Our goal is not just to sell a rug and move on; we aim to build lasting relationships. If our customers are satisfied, they’ll bring their friends and family, and that is the highest compliment we can receive."Fluent in English, Spanish, Portuguese, and Italian, in addition to his native Turkish, Hakan named his shop Imperio Otomano, meaning Ottoman Empire in Spanish. He frequently travels across Turkey, seeking new markets and opportunities to acquire unique rugs. "It’s a true pleasure to visit small villages, experience their hospitality, and witness the pride artisans take in creating their masterpieces," he remarks.Hakan’s deep appreciation for the artistry and labor involved in rug-making is evident in every interaction. Shopping with him is akin to receiving a master class in rug arts. His advice for selecting the perfect rug? "First, let your eyes feel the rug, then use your hands to assess its quality. Tight knots are a sign of excellent craftsmanship."

Hakan Evin takes great pride in his impeccable reputation, recognizing that with such esteem comes the responsibility to uphold the highest standards of service and product quality. At Imperio Otomano, customer satisfaction is paramount, and every effort is made to ensure that each client leaves 100% satisfied.The cornerstone of Imperio Otomano’s success is its unwavering commitment to customer service. Hakan personally attends to each customer, aiming to create a seamless shopping experience from start to finish—although, as Hakan often says, there is “no end” to his service. Many of his customers become lifelong friends, returning again and again, and referring their friends and family to his shop.Unlike some carpet dealers in the Grand Bazaar, who are focused on making a quick sale, Hakan dedicates his time to understanding each customer’s needs and thoroughly addressing their questions. His commitment to customer satisfaction has earned Imperio Otomano a loyal following, with repeat business being a testament to the quality of service provided.Preferred by American government officials, Imperio Otomano has been a destination for U.S. Presidents and world leaders for more than a decade. Despite his celebrity clientele, Hakan remains devoted to the everyday shopper, extending his services to expatriate communities and generations of families in Istanbul. "We don’t want to sell a rug and forget about the customer," he says. "We want to build lasting relationships so that they return and bring others with them."

Imperio Otomano offers a diverse collection of Oriental carpets sourced from traditional rug-weaving regions, including Turkey, Iran, Central Asia, western China, and India. While all these regions have a rich history of carpet-making, not all carpets are of the same quality. Turkish carpets, known for their double-knot technique, are particularly durable, whereas Afghani and Chinese rugs are single-knotted. It is important to note that some Chinese carpets, despite being machine-made, are often misleadingly sold as handmade. Though these rugs may attract some buyers due to their designs, the quality is inferior, and the colors are prone to running.The most reliable way to assess the quality of a carpet is by counting the number of knots per centimeter on the back of the rug. This simple test can provide a clear indication of the craftsmanship and durability of the carpet.