Interior Study: Exploring Rattan

Design

Oct 12

For years, rattan has really been considered an “outside” material, but recently there has been a huge popularity shift bringing it indoors. It’s one of the trends that has resurged in the pandemic. Mainly due to our need to connect with materials that are natural and radiate the calmness the outdoors can bring. As far as natural materials go, rattan is by far one of the most effortless. It’s comfortable, easygoing, and doesn’t really require that much to make a statement. Another reason rattan has become so popular is its durability and sustainability. Two things that have really allowed retailers and designers to come up with creative ways to form and structure the material. Rattan is a tropical material typically derived from the palm trees of Southeast Asia which gives it the tropical, natural outdoor feel we know and love. Well, at least that I love. Since it doesn’t require extensive manufacturing like other materials, it can be harvested quicker and create a piece that lasts about a decade.

A third reason for the increased popularity is the appreciation for vintage finds - particularly Italian furniture. Makers from the 50s through the 1970s like Crespi and Albini have been seeing more and more interest in their pieces. One table just recently sold for six million dollars. Incredible right? Aside from being drawn to the natural materials and colors, rattan just makes things feel special and unique. To me, rattan evokes this incredible island vibe almost like going on a trip. I think it looks gorgeous and there are so many subtle ways to bring it into one’s home from lighting to chairs and bigger pieces like bed frames and cabinets. There is just a sense of warmth that comes with rattan. Maybe it’s the tropical nature of the material or just the nature element itself. Either way, rattan is durable, chic, and here to stay.

Don’t believe me? Check out some design inspiration and my rattan picks below.