The reddish-brown Hereford is one of the most distinctive cowhides available. You won’t find that warm, rustic look in any other breed. Below, I’ll explain where the color comes from and what to look for.
Why choose a Hereford cowhide?
The distinctive feature of a Hereford is the contrast between deep, rich reddish-brown tones and bright, pure white patches. This creates a striking and warm pattern that looks beautiful in any interior. These warm, earthy colors instantly create a cozy, rustic atmosphere.
And it has all the familiar qualities of a genuine cowhide: it lasts for years, is naturally non-slip, and every piece is completely unique. A nice detail: Herefords have short hair, so they’re wonderfully easy to maintain and perfect for use on the floor.
Where does that reddish-brown color come from?
In Hereford cattle, the reddish-brown color is usually found around the back and flanks, while the white is often on the belly, legs, and sometimes the head. This natural distribution gives each hide its own warm charm. The exact pattern and the brown-to-white ratio vary from hide to hide, so no two Hereford hides are alike.
Fits into any interior style
Whether you have a traditional, rustic interior or a modern, minimalist style, a Hereford always fits right in. The warm reddish-brown color pairs beautifully with wooden furniture and earth tones, but works just as well with industrial materials like metal and concrete. It’s precisely that contrast between a warm, natural product and rugged materials that makes it so appealing.
How to use a Hereford cowhide in your home
- As a rug: lay it out on a dry, flat floor, in the middle of the living room, under the coffee table, or next to your bed. Short-haired, sturdy, and naturally non-slip.
- Over the back of your sofa: drape it loosely over the backrest or armrest for extra warmth and a touch of luxury.
- On the wall: as wall decor, a reddish-brown Hereford is a real eye-catcher and a beautiful alternative to a painting.
Need some inspiration?
Looking for some inspiration? Whether you’re looking for a subtle accent or a real eye-catcher, in the inspiration room you can see how others have incorporated them into their homes—from the living room and bedroom to the office. Plenty of ideas to help you finish off your own interior.
What size do you need?
I measure every single Hereford hide myself, so you know exactly what you’re getting. For a spacious living room where the hide can really stand out, choose a large hide (XL or XXL) as a focal-point rug; feel free to place it slightly under your couch or coffee table. For a smaller space or a cozy corner, an M/L, XS, or S is the way to go. Not sure about the size? In my blog post on how I measure the hides, I show you exactly how I do it. I’ve categorized the hides by size:
- XS: smaller than 2.00 m²
- S: 2.01–2.99 m²
- M/L: 3.00–3.99 m²
- XL: starting at 4.00 m²
- XXL: the very largest pieces
Prefer a different color?
Does a reddish-brown Hereford just not quite fit your interior? Then check out the other natural colors:
Complete the look
Create a cohesive interior: pair your Hereford cowhide with matching cowhide pillows or elegant coasters, or place a wonderfully soft sheepskin next to it on the couch. Looking for a small accent piece instead? Then check out the mini cowhides.
Need help choosing?
You’ll receive the exact cowhide shown in the photo, you have a 30-day return window, and I include care instructions with every order. Customers rate us a 9.7, and for orders over €100, I offer free shipping within the Netherlands, Belgium, and Germany. In the Netherlands, you’ll usually receive it within 1–2 business days. Delivery to other countries may take a little longer, but barring any delays, your order will typically arrive at your home within a maximum of 7 business days.
Are you unsure about a specific hide or would you like some advice? Feel free to call or email me, or make an appointment to visit our showroom in Boxmeer, the Netherlands. Together, we’ll choose the Hereford cowhide that matches your interior.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Hereford cowhide?
A Hereford cowhide comes from the Hereford cattle breed, the only breed with that distinctive reddish-brown color. The hides are reddish-brown with white accents, giving them a warm, rustic look.
Why is the Hereford so special?
Because no other breed has that deep reddish-brown color. The contrast between the warm brown tones and the bright white patches makes every Hereford a real eye-catcher.
How is the color distributed across the hide?
The reddish-brown color is usually found around the back and flanks, with white on the belly, legs, and sometimes the head. This distribution varies by animal, so each hide has a unique pattern and brown-to-white ratio.
Will I receive the exact cowhide shown in the photo?
Yes. Each hide is photographed, measured, and numbered individually. The hide in the photo is exactly the one you’ll receive—one of a kind.
What sizes are the Hereford cowhides available in?
From XS to XXL. For a large room, choose an XL or XXL as a centerpiece rug; for a smaller space, choose an M/L, XS, or S. First, measure your floor area and choose a hide that’s large enough to cover it comfortably.
How do I care for a Hereford cowhide?
Very low maintenance. Herefords are short-haired: vacuum it occasionally on a low setting, without a rotating brush. Shaking it out is difficult and not necessary. Dab any stains with a slightly damp cloth. You can find detailed tips on maintaining and cleaning cowhides.
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