In the heart of Noe Valley, San Francisco, a dream was born in a garage. Selim Aykiran, a textile enthusiast and entrepreneur, started his boutique towel company with a passion for both his city and the art of weaving. Today, you can visit his delightful store at 803 Delaware Street in Berkeley’s Historic District. Step inside, and you’ll be greeted not just by beautiful towels, but also by stories that connect Italy, New York, and San Francisco!

A Textile Legacy

Selim's journey began in Istanbul, Turkey, a city steeped in rich textile traditions. He left in 1972 to pursue a degree in textile and apparel design in London. In 1977, he opened a fashion store on South Molton Street, showcasing high-end casual wear from Italy. This was just the start of an excit- ing career.

In 1978, Selim moved to Bologna, Italy, where he became the European agent for Italian brands like Americanino and Forza12 jeans. He helped transform Centergross into a fashion hub, designing everything from jeans to sweatshirts. By 1979, he was the first to bring iconic brands like Diesel and Stone Island to New York, playing a key role in the “jean craze” of the late ’70s and ’80s.

Passion Rediscovered

In the late '90s, while visiting Turkey, Selim encountered master weaver Urguplu in Bursa. Captivated by the art of towel weaving, he set out to find traditional weaving machines. These machines, over 100 years old, are rare and labor-intensive, requiring a dedicated weaver for each one. Despite the challenges, Selim knew the quality was unmatched, and he was committed to preserving this craft.

He sources Organic Bergama Turkish cotton from the Aegean region, celebrated for its rich soils. This cotton produces long-staple fibers that result in towels that are soft, fluffy, and absorbent. With each wash, they only get better.

 Historical Connection

Bursa is historically significant; it’s where the first towels were woven back in the 18th century. So, it makes sense that Selim established his factory in this region. He personally designs each towel and collaborates with master weavers to ensure every piece meets his high standards. His pride in maintaining this tradition shines through as he brings these exquisite products to the world, especially to his beloved San Francisco.

Brand Evolution

Since its launch in 2000, Selim’s company has been known as the Turkish Towel Collection. He has supplied towels to notable retailers such as Ralph Lauren and Wynn Hotel. Now, as Selim expands into other home textiles, he has rebranded as TTC Home, reflecting his broader vision for the future.

Visit TTC Home

If you find yourself in Berkeley, don’t miss the chance to visit TTC Home. Not only will you find beautifully designed towels, but you’ll also feel the warmth of Selim's passion and stories. Each visit promises a unique experience that celebrates craftsmanship, heritage, and the joy of textiles.

 The Future of TTC Home

As Selim looks ahead, his commitment to quality and tradition remains steadfast. He aims to continue sharing the beauty of Turkish textiles with the world, inviting everyone to enjoy the exceptional quality that can only come from skilled hands and a rich history. So, next time you wrap yourself in a towel, remember the journey it took to get to you—a journey full of passion, history, and artistry!