Get the look: Retro Rattan
Praised for its versatility in almost any decorating style, rattan is making a comeback and we are totally here for it.
No longer just a worn-out remnant of the 1970s – rattan décor is back, and we couldn’t be more pleased about it. If you’ve been anywhere near a furniture store recently, you’ll most definitely have noticed a rattan renaissance.
Originally, rattan was defined as the stem of a certain kind of palm used to make furniture. Nowadays, it’s not uncommon to see the term ‘rattan’ used to describe any type of material – natural or synthetic – that has a twig or stick-like quality.
Irrespective of your decorating style, rattan’s biggest drawcard is its versatility. Pair it with bright whites, macramé, and potted palms, and you’ve got yourself one very dreamy coastal boho look. Used as an accent, it’s perfect for rustic farmhouses or Hamptons-style homes.
Feature furniture
The trick with rattan is to not overdo it; otherwise, your room may end up looking like a tree-house. If your budget permits, we recommend selecting a few key pieces of furniture or, alternatively, accentuating what you’ve already got with some smaller decorative items.
An absolute showstopper for a bedroom space is the Home Republic Georgia Natural Rattan Bedhead available at Adairs. Constructed out of natural rattan, its curved form with vertical rattan vines creates an interesting focal point.
Flexible furniture
Versatile furniture is what we’re all about, and this Provincial Home Living side table is a prime example. Out on your covered veranda? Sure! As a bedside table? Absolutely! Handmade using natural Slimit Rattan, the Capri side table is a beautiful addition to your home.
Decadence and tranquility
With rattan sticks, a frosted glass jar, and a wooden lid, these Salt & Pepper Spa Diffusers from Domayne are a subtle way to incorporate that boho rattan look into your home.
Light up the night
If only a touch of rattan is more your jam, a lamp is a fantastic way to add a rattan feature piece to your space. We really like the Cohen Table Lamp in Natural at Harvey Norman – versatile enough to suit an array of different decorating styles.
Balmy afternoons and beachside vibes
Rattan is excellent for bringing that beachside vibe, and its natural look goes hand in hand with outdoor spaces. Style rattan outdoor furniture with big cushions to create a laidback sun-lounging area.
We’re loving this 2-seater sofa aptly named ‘Byron,’ with grey linen weave from Early Settler. Constructed from a sturdy aluminium frame, moisture-resistant fabric, and all-weather wicker, this will become the top spot in your backyard or balcony.
Add some plant stand pizzazz
Is your space lacking life? Rattan is a great option when looking to bring an organic element into your home. Planters are a nice, understated way of adding rattan without going overboard, making them the perfect choice for minimalist spaces too!
Rattan planters, plant stands, and baskets are experiencing a resurgence, so you should be able to find one perfectly suited to your home almost anywhere. Our pick is this brand new BUSKBO rattan plant stand from IKEA.
A crafty cocktail bar
We’re getting some real beachside tiki vibes from this Hamptons Rattan Trolley from Domayne. Position this beauty within your living or dining area to showcase some of your favourite glassware and tipples – an entertainer’s delight!
A French Provincial classic
When guests gather around, seat them on something beautifully crafted and bound to impress. Humble in design, these Villa Cafe chairs combine solid timber with a rattan seat to produce a rustic provincial look fit for a farmhouse. Find these chairs at Provincial Home Living.
Soak up the sunshine
Add some intrigue to your dining or kitchen area with some centrepiece lighting. Beacon Lighting has got you sorted with their LEDlux Lorne LED 1 Light Tall dimmable pendant lights. Thanks to the plastic rattan construction, they’re also super easy to maintain.