Rattan has been used to build furniture for years and it was widely popular in the 1970s. In the last few years, we have seen this trend re-emerging. Go into any home retail store and you’re likely to spot a rattan collection. We’ve also seen it styled in many homes across Wagga lately. So, we thought we’d explore this popular look.
What is rattan?
Rattan is a type of palm tree mostly found in tropical parts of Africa, Asia and Australia. It’s a desirable resource because it’s light, durable, flexible, grows quickly and is known to be easier to harvest than timber.
While furniture is its main utilised purpose, it’s also used for shelter and handicraft as the strands can be used for weaving. Parts of certain rattan species are edible, so it also provides a food source.
The harvesting of rattan contributes to essential income for some villages in Asia and offers them an alternative to logging timber. WWF are also involved in projects to establish and assure sustainable production.
What makes rattan so popular?
Rattan offers to bring a natural, organic look and feel to your home, drawing on elements of rustic interior design. This popular style revolves around using earthy colours, and raw, nature-inspired materials that create a warm, cosy ambience.
When it comes to styling rattan, you don’t have to fill your home with it. Current trends see rattan used subtly throughout the home as accent pieces, often in a warm colour palette with pops of greenery.
This styled bedroom showcases a beautiful combination of warm neutral tones, dried flowers, rattan pendant lights and bedside tables. Together, these elements really bring a rustic feel to the home, while still retaining a minimalistic style.
It’s easy to see why this style is loved by many.
It will be interesting to see how long this trend lasts. Would you decorate your home with rattan? Or would you opt for a different décor style?
Reference list:
Rattan facts and information | WWF (panda.org)
Trend : Rattan Interiors – The Design Sheppard
Rustic Interior Design Style Guide: 5 Elements of Rustic Style – 2022 – MasterClass
Samantha King
As someone who loves to be creative, Sam enjoys her role in the Fitzpatricks marketing department, helping out with copy, social media management, design and more. Outside the office, Sam aspires to be a published author, and spends most of her time with family, her rescue dog or working on something crafty.