Rattan is known for its sumptuous texture and charming looks, but is it still popular, what are its benefits, and where does it fit best? We investigate…

This natural material has made a strong comeback in recent years, and its popularity doesn’t seem to falter. But first, what is rattan and where does it come from? “Rattan grows as a vine, with up to 600 species. Mature vines can stretch to hundreds of feet, growing a few centimetres in a day, far surpassing that of hardwood trees. It’s these long, continuous fibres that are used to create furniture,” explains Georgia Metcalfe, founder and creative director at French Bedroom.

“But rattan is more than just a vine – it’s also a symphony of strength and suppleness, possessing an innate flexibility that allows for intricate woven designs,” she notes.

And, what is it that makes it such a popular material? Lou Graham, owner of Graham & Green, says it continues to be a timeless favourite in interiors, ‘especially as natural textures and artisanal materials remain central to how people want their homes to feel warm, relaxed and connected to nature’.

Tracey Hague, co-founder of Where Saints Go, agrees and adds, “Its organic, relaxed aesthetic fits beautifully into a wide range of spaces, from contemporary to bohemian-inspired homes. With the rise of biophilic design and a move toward more tactile, comforting environments, rattan has only grown in appeal.”

Benefits

Rattan is a charming, versatile material, which complements a range of aesthetics – from country chic and vintage, to more contemporary interiors. It is ideal for adding warmth and texture to a space, and it also pairs well with other natural materials, such as linen and wood. Plus, it is a great eco-conscious choice, too. “Beyond its aesthetic appeal, rattan is lightweight yet durable, and often sustainably sourced, making it a responsible choice for conscious decorating,” says Lou.

Another benefit is that it is a light material. “Its airy weave gives furniture a sense of openness that’s perfect for smaller spaces or garden rooms,” says Tracey. What’s more, Georgia says that thanks to rattan’s strength, well-crafted furniture can last for decades. Your future self will certainly be thankful!

Care considerations for rattan furniture

Rattan is a pretty low maintenance material. “A regular dusting and an occasional wipe with a damp cloth are usually all it needs,” says Tracey. “However, it should be kept out of prolonged direct sunlight and high humidity to prevent brittleness or mould.” So, make sure to pay extra attention when choosing and positioning your kitchen and bathroom pieces to avoid fibres warping in time.

Now, let’s take a look at how you can use rattan in your home…

Kitchens

From seating, lighting, to bar trolleys and coffee tables, there are so many stunning furniture solutions crafted from rattan, perfect for elevating your kitchen, living, or dining room. “In kitchens, rattan bar stools or pendant lights bring in a natural contrast to sleek cabinetry. It’s a great way to soften more functional or minimal spaces,” says Tracey.

Alternatively, if you love the look of rattan but don’t want to go big, you can always opt for subtle accents. “For smaller touches, rattan trays or baskets are perfect for countertop storage, keeping essentials tidy while enhancing the room’s aesthetic,” suggests Victoria Robinson, style and trend expert at Hillarys.

However, styling your rattan pieces is incredibly important, and Lou says balance is key. “Layer it with other tactile materials and avoid overuse so it doesn’t dominate,” she advises.

Bedrooms

Bedrooms should feel like a relaxing sanctuary, and rattan is the ideal material for achieving this look, whether we’re talking statement bed frames, stylish storage solutions, or smaller decorative pieces. “In bedrooms, rattan works beautifully to create a calm and inviting retreat,” says Victoria.

“A rattan headboard is a striking feature, adding a relaxed, coastal feel. Bedside tables or benches with rattan detailing offer subtle texture without overwhelming the space. You can also use rattan baskets for storing throws, pillows, or magazines, which helps keep the room organised and visually appealing,” she explains.

Bathrooms

In the bathroom, Shelley Cochrane, accessories buyer at Furniture Village, recommends thinking small but impactful – rattan mirrors and hampers will add plenty of visual appeal to your space. Victoria adds, “Rattan framed mirrors, laundry baskets, or shelving units provide practical storage while maintaining a sense of softness.”

And, similarly to bedrooms, rattan will instantly add a relaxing, spa-like feeling through its sumptuous texture and organic nature. “It pairs exceptionally well with neutral tones, greenery, and natural stone, allowing you to layer in a cosy, tactile aesthetic without sacrificing modernity,” adds Shelley.

However, remember to keep your pieces away from direct contact with water and to choose solutions which are treated for humidity so you can enjoy them for as long as possible, advises Victoria.

So, will you be welcoming this natural material to your home? I definitely will!

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