Top Tips for Styling with Rattan

A number of beautiful home styling trends have emerged in 2021, and many of these contemporary looks incorporate the relaxed and natural look of rattan. The Modern Bohemian style is everywhere these days, and rattan pieces are definitely taking centre stage. Whether it be lamps and pendants, mats and mirrors, side tables and headboards, rattan has undoubtedly made a big comeback.

So what is rattan? Rattan is a beautiful tropical vine, usually found in parts of Australia, Asia and Africa. The stalks of the vine are peeled and woven together to create different styles of furniture and home decor products. It is lightweight, versatile and can be easily stained in different colours or oils.

The bohemian rattan style of the ’70s slowly faded but has resurfaced over the past couple of years.

Also known as manila, or malacca, rattan has been utilised for furnishings by many different cultures for centuries. A look at recent centuries finds rattan featured heavily in Victorian Era homes. Though the trend fell out of fashion for a few decades, it became popular again in home décor in the ’60s and ’70s. The bohemian rattan style of the ’70s slowly faded but has resurfaced over the past couple of years.

It’s not hard to understand why rattan has had such a resurgence in home décor. Rattan furniture is timeless and can be teamed with many style trends due to its natural colouring, unique texture and light sandy wood. Moreover, rattan and wicker pieces were bound to come back into our homes thanks to the move towards natural materials.

Bring elements of rattan into your space with decorative baskets or trays.

Styling with Rattan

Not sure how to add rattan to your interior? While past rattan fads have centred around seating and outdoor furniture, we’re seeing many more accent décor pieces incorporating the material these days.

Just like in fashion, décor styles can come back, but to work they must blend in with newer styles as well. To get the modern version of a classic bohemian trend, it’s best to use rattan in accent pieces. They can soften the look of a room with modern lines and sleek finishes, creating a more balanced space. To make sure your space feels on-trend and not like you haven’t updated it since the ’70s, try these top tips for styling with rattan in 2021.

Hang Your Rattan   

Choose an interesting pendant lamp to effortlessly add rattan into your space.

Hang a unique rattan pendant light to blend beautifully into either the coastal or popular Hampton style. Keep the surrounding decor white and bright so the rattan pendant stands out. Perhaps add some splashes of navy furnishings like cushions or throw rugs, a silver mirror and lush green plants to create a coastal vibe.

Ground Your Rattan

Use large rattan baskets as plant pots to add a bohemian touch to your space.

When developing a more rustic look, include a round rattan mat or heavy-based rattan pot plant and team it with earthy, mustard, orange and tan tones. Rattan pouffes are also all the rage and can be incorporated into virtually any space for extra seating. A rattan mat, lampshade or chest of drawers can also be used in country-inspired styles.

Elevate Your Rattan

The black trim on this rattan sideboard elevates the look of the space, and is perfectly complemented by the black rattan basket and wall décor.

Rattan is very versatile and can be used to create a sophisticated look as well. Use different tones or even different colours of rattan pieces to create an elegant space. Perhaps include a stylish rattan sideboard or mirror when designing a modern or urban theme and pair it with contemporary lamps, a designer sofa and metallic brass fittings.

Get Playful with Rattan

Lightweight furniture is great for kid’s rooms, such as this sturdy yet easy-to-move chair.

Children’s bedrooms can look adorable with a rattan bookshelf or lightweight woven chair. The natural look of rattan means it can fit into any colour scheme, and most importantly can easily be moved around. Place brightly coloured books and ornaments on a rattan bookshelf and an oversized cream throw or sheepskin rug on a rattan chair to create a warm, inviting feel. Add a cute stuffed toy animal and wooden train set or dolls’ house for some old-world charm.

Relax with Rattan

For a laid-back, sophisticated outdoor vibe, use neutral cushions and interesting prints.

Rattan furniture looks fabulous outdoors or beside a pool to create a “holiday” vibe. Nothing screams tropical more than a rattan recliner adorned with a bright cushion bearing a pineapple or palms fronds. A stylish retro beach umbrella and towel can complete this relaxed look. If you are looking to create a more polished look for your rattan-inspired patio, use neutral colours and patterns. You’ll still get the comfortable, relaxing feel, but with a more grown-up, elegant touch.

Used indoors or outdoors, rattan products are a must-have in home styling for 2021. This beautiful and easy-to-style wood is used to create unique furniture that can easily be blended into any design. It is really no wonder that rattan is enjoying a well-deserved revival!