Over the last few years, rattan home décor has taken the interiors world by storm. From rattan chairs to rattan headboards, this natural material adds texture and detail wherever it appears – perfect for warming up a simple colour palette.
Craftsmanship in general is a key trend for home décor right now, and rattan fits perfectly into the style. Imperfect finishes and a natural feel make a house feel a home far more than a perfectly polished look, and woven rattan pieces bring that handmade element to your space.
And although the interior design landscape is ever-changing, we think rattan is here to stay. Here’s how to incorporate it into your home.
The Modern Resurgence
Decorative rattan is not a new concept – in fact, it’s been traced right back to Ancient Egypt. The Romans were also inspired by rattan’s simple, homespun style, using it in woven furniture similar to the rattan dining furniture that’s popular today.
In modern times, rattan gained huge popularity in the 70s with it’s bohemian style and warm wood tones. But why has it seen such a resurgence in recent years? Well for one thing, it’s effortless – the natural materials and colours work with all kinds of interior styles, meaning you don’t have to think too hard about where rattan might fit within your home.
What’s more, that soft wood colour is warm and inviting, a key element we’re looking for in our interior design. And it’s airy too, letting light through the fibres for a breezy look. Finally, rattan home décor is really versatile and rattan tables can often be used both inside and out, making it a practical choice.
Embrace Rattan in Living Rooms
If you’re not 100% on board yet, but want to dip your toe in to see how it feels, the living room is the perfect space to add some decorative rattan. Look out for rattan wall hangings and accessories like vases and coasters. A rattan mirror is also a sound way to try your luck with something new – we love the versatility of the AM.PM Tarsile Square Rattan Mirror which adds an exotic touch on its own or in a grid layout with 3 others.
Our favourite rattan accessory for living rooms
The Waska Oak and Rattan TV Unit can help you introduce hints of different materials into a more traditional room, with an oak frame and rattan doors.
Create Inviting Bedrooms with Rattan
Adding a little rattan in the bedroom does wonders for our morning mood. Who wouldn’t want to wake up feeling like you’re on holiday? Go big with the Malu Rattan Cane Headboard to really make a splash - add it to any double bed base for instant cool. For a slightly more subtle nod, try these Malu Vintage Rattan Bedside Tables, with plenty of storage and openwork to help keep small space light, they’re fab for a smaller bedroom.
The warm colours and light, airy feel of rattan can bring a sense of serenity to your sleeping space, aiding relaxation and peacefulness. Go for the full makeover with these bedding ideas for every style, too.
Our favourite rattan accessory for bedrooms
We love the art deco vibe of this rattan headboard – team with a mustard yellow colour palette for a real vintage feel.
Use Rattan Accents in Kitchens and Dining Rooms
Introducing rattan style to your kitchen and dining space is a great to soften the feel of functional areas. For example, rattan sets of chairs can add warmth to a metal or plain wood dining table, as can layering rattan placemats over white tablecloths. The organic materials paired with smooth, industrial pieces create balance and interest.
Our favourite rattan accessory for kitchens and dining rooms
This beautiful Yaku Woven Hemp Lampshade is one of our bestsellers and brings a lovely natural feel to your home. This shade looks great in a naturally themed room, but also works as a contrast piece in a more contemporary style interior.
Use Rattan for an Outdoor Oasis in Gardens
Rattan is a natural choice for the garden – the natural finish works perfectly in an outdoor setting, connecting your garden furniture back to its surroundings. It’s also a very durable material and has natural weather resistance, making it ideal for the Great British Summertime!
We love this rattan garden coffee table for summer drinks with friends, or this rattan recliner and footstool for lazy days in the garden.
Our favourite rattan accessory for gardens
Add just a touch of rattan to your outdoor space with this stylish rattan lantern – the open weave lets plenty of light through.
Maintenance and Care: Keeping Rattan Beautiful
To keep your rattan interior design looking brand new, make sure you do a little maintenance on your rattan pieces every now and then. Particularly for rattan style garden furniture, you might want to do a gentle clean with a toothbrush and some soapy water just to get in between the weave and remove any dirt. Wipe down with a damp cloth.
If your rattan is looking dry or starting to crack, use a gentle wood oil to add moisture back in and restore your piece to its natural glory.
Rattan is a great way to bring a natural, timeless charm to your home – whether you incorporate it in the bedroom, living room, kitchen or garden. Embrace that 70s vintage vibe and add a little rattan to your space today!
