10 stylish rattan furniture and accessories for indoors and out
Rustic, sustainable and more than a little exotic, there's no denying rattan furniture is having a moment
Unless you have been shopping with your eyes closed, you will know that rattan furniture has been experiencing somewhat of a comeback for the last couple of years or so. We aren't just talking about ever durable rattan garden furniture either. With everything from rattan sofas to rattan lighting and storage options too, if you want to inject a little bit of this seventies favourite into your scheme, you will be spoilt for choice.
For those who don't know, rattan is used to describe various natural woven materials, with synthetic versions being preferred for outside. It really should be made of one of 600 species of climbing palm belonging to the Calamoideae family, but we generally use it to refer to a type of wickerwork often used in Southeast Asia.
It is used to make so many everyday items like baskets and mats, but is often used as a screening material and for seating and modern furniture. It isn't just used in a woven form though – rattan cane is great for creating sturdy yet lightweight shelves, chairs and even bed frames.
There's a rattan revival going on right now and with it an impressive selection of furniture, lighting and homewares from some of our favourite high street and online retailers. See the ways you can bring this stylish and (often) sustainable material into your home with our top picks and styling tips. Colourful kaftan and joss sticks optional...
1. Birdie Fortescue Teras Dining Chair, £175
Perfect for summer entertaining, the Teras dining chair (£175) from Birdie Fortescue would make a beautiful addition to your garden, patio or terrace. Made from woven rattan and painted in a fresh watermelon pink shade, these stylish chairs will not only provide additional seating for your outside space but also a splash of colour on those grey days. Designed by Birdie and her team in Norfolk, each chair has been hand painted making them perfect for indoors as well as outdoors.
Styling tip: mix and match different colour chairs to give your garden a seasonal colour update that doesn't take itself too seriously.
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- See more modern garden ideas in our gallery
2. Anthropologie Kinsella Rattan Bed, £1798
With its ornate detailing and oversized headboard, the Kinsella Rattan Bed (£1798) from Anthropologie has true vintage appeal. This piece would be a real show-stopper in any bedroom, lending a touch of femininity that feels fresh and fun.
Styling tip: during the cooler months you may wish to add warmth to this bed. Try adding layers of chunky knitted throws, heavy wool and soft sheepskin to ensure it feels snug. During the summer months surround yourself with large leaf palms to help whisk you away to warmer climes.
3. Amara Wicky Rattan Coffee Table, £400
If you're drawn to a Scandinavian aesthetic then the Wicky side table (£400) from Amara is the one for you. Made by Danish design house, Broste Copenhagen, this table feels modern and fresh thanks to its low and chunky base. Rattan furniture can often have intricate detailing or ornate finishes but this design feels clean and fuss-free – a Scandinavian design principle.
Styling tip: this table will pair seamlessly with an array of interior looks, try mixing in some vintage items such as mid-century lighting or a vintage Berber rug.
4. Habitat 2-Seater Bamboo Bistro Set, £275
Chic and curvy, the 2-Seater Bamboo Bistro Set (£275) from Habitat will bring a touch of comfort to your favourite garden corner. Four cushions are included within the set to enable you to curl up and enjoy ergonomic comfort as you sink into the chairs. The side table will mean your drink will never be far away, with its glass topped surface it's easy to wipe clean too.
Styling tip: for added comfort add a throw on each chair to help keep warm once the sun has gone down. Also, why not add a portable lamp on the side table to add an inviting atmosphere.
- See more stylish outdoor seating picks with our best garden furniture round up
5. Dunelm Mill Rattan Wall Mirror, £25
A quick and easy way to add rattan to your interior scheme is with a wall mirror, such as Dunelm Mill's Rattan Wall Mirror (£25). With an 80cm diameter, this mirror will certainly make a statement on your wall. Many rattan mirrors can feel quite ornate with lots of intricate details, this design feels clean and contemporary.
Styling tip: the options of where to hang a rattan mirror are endless. Try over a mantle like a piece of art, above a sink in a bathroom for a surprise material, or on the wall in a hallway to greet your guests as soon as they step in.
6. Cuckooland Sika Stackable Rattan Rossini Dining Chair, £325
Lovingly handwoven from a sustainably sourced material, the Rattan Rossini Dining Chair (£325) from Cuckooland feels reminiscent of bustling cafes in Paris with a rustic edge. Available in four gorgeous colours; natural taupe, antique and this bold black shade, all of which that benefit from being stackable if you're short on space. Surround your dining room table, pair two together and create a contemporary breakfast nook in the conservatory or use as an accent chair in the bedroom. Featuring high armrests, an intricately woven seat and a rounded back for ultimate comfort; a quick break might turn into a whole afternoon of relaxing.
7. Made Beyka Compact Sideboard, £299
What it lacks in size, the Beyka Compact Sideboard (£299) from Made.com makes up for in style. With beautiful curved cane detailing on the doors, this sideboard will bring a decorative detail to your living room or bedroom. The open fronted style of the doors allows you to display your favourite wares and keepsakes. Stack them up high or keep things minimal, the options really are endless.
Styling tip: if you decide you want close fronted doors then you could add your favourite fabric or wallpaper inside the doors.
8. Maisons du Monde Suzane Rattan Daybed, £324
The Suzane Rattan Day Bed (£324) from Maisons du Monde is perfect for those difficult spaces, whether it be for a box room or a bay window. Vintage in style, this daybed has a beautiful openwork headboard and footboard that feels fresh and less chunky, compared to some occasional furniture. Leave the mattress bare or fill with boundless cushions in your favourite textures and patterns to create the perfect relaxing corner.
9. Cox & Cox Rattan Webbing Screen, £275
With its solid cane frame and textured screen panels, the Rattan Webbing Screen (£275) from Cox & Cox provides a stylish backdrop to any space. Each panel has a beautiful curved top edge that gives an elegant silhouette, as well as two dainty legs, which provide both balance and sturdiness. Room dividers have enjoyed a recent rise in popularity, as many of us require areas of our homes to provide a number of uses. Perfect for adding a touch of character or to hide an unsightly corner, we love the versatility of this piece.
10. La Redoute Malu Vintage Style Shelving Unit, £399
Inspired by 1950s furniture, the Malu Vintage Style Shelving Unit (£399) from La Redoute provides both form and function in equal measures. Made from handcrafted rattan and painted in a zingy green, this shelving unit has been finished with an eye-catching gloss finish that feels fresh and luxe. Wave goodbye to flatpack, as this piece will be delivered pre-assembled and ready to start styling with your favourite accessories.
Styling tip: think about height – stack items up to help create different levels. It's worth considering plants for these shelves too, as the open sides lend themselves as the perfect spot to let light in.
Jo is a News & Shopping Editor across Homes & Gardens and Livingetc magazine. Before joining Future Plc, she worked as an interior stylist and set designer, specialising in editorial and commercial photo shoots as well as installations, exhibitions and events. Her background within this field means she has a particular interest in the creative ways to make a house a home, as well as hunting down the best places to source beautiful things.
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