Why we're crushing on rattan furniture
Hide your wallets
It happens rarely, but it happens. And now, begrudgingly, I must admit to it: I was wrong. A few months ago, if you had asked me about my greatest obsession when it comes to home decor, my answer would have been the evil eye motif (it’s taken over our jewellery box, too). Or, at least, some rendition of it. Maybe in the form of a wall hanging or a decor plate, or woven onto a pillow. That changed when my friend, while decorating her new apartment, mentioned two words, and the bots in our smartphones that listen to our conversations alerted my social media feed. Ever since, I’ve been inundated with posts and advertisements for just that—rattan furniture. And a new champion was crowned. Sorry, evil eye.
From Pierre Jeanneret’s classic Chandigarh chair to modern table tops, cabinets, headboards and bar stools, rattan furniture is everywhere, and available at varying price tags. I’d be lying if I said I hadn’t added a couple of items to my shopping cart, threatening my bank account with a massive debit.
Rattan is a climbing palm (there are approximately 600 species) that grows abundantly in hot and humid tropical climates. Its origins can be traced back to ancient civilisations in Asia and Africa, from where it travelled to the West through various trade routes. Rattan furniture doesn’t come cheap, but it’s cheaper than solid wood, and that’s one of the factors that drove its appeal in the colonial and post-colonial world. While cane, wicker and rattan might seem interchangeable, they are different, and understanding the difference can be tricky.
“Cane is similar to rattan in that it is the outer layer (or bark) of the rattan vine. It is also quite strong and used to bind pieces together. Caning is less porous than wood and naturally repels drips and spills,” designer Hannah Pobar tells MarthaStewart.com. While these two are materials that come from the same plant, wicker is a weaving method.
After reading up extensively on this versatile material, I realised that one sentiment prevails when it comes to rattan: its ‘enduring appeal’. But what’s the secret sauce that’s made it survive the changing tides of decor trends? Perhaps the fact that it is sustainable, durable and easy to clean.
Rattan furniture is like the chameleon of home decor—it effortlessly blends in with different aesthetics, from classic vintage to mid-century modern. There’s something special about the intricate patterns of rattan, which, when combined with the earthy textures of wood, feels like a warm hug. Whether you’re kicking back in a rattan chair, storing your essentials in a beautifully crafted basket, or basking in the glow of a rattan light fixture, each piece combines nature’s charm with an artisan’s skill, bringing a bit of the outdoors into our concrete abodes.
If you want to bring the same earthiness into your living space, I’ve got you covered. With Instagram constantly throwing different recommendations my way, I created a personal wishlist of rattan pieces that are stylish and functional. Handmade with love and skill, rattan furniture can be pricey, but why should my bank balance suffer alone?
Our favourite pieces of rattan furniture and decor
Tolkning room divider by IKEA, ₹10,990
This room divider is more than just a piece of furniture—it’s a design statement that effortlessly blends form and function. Think of it like creating a room within a room, a sanctuary where you can find a moment of peace. Whether you’re working from home or simply seeking a little privacy, this room divider has you covered.
Tolkning bench with storage by IKEA, ₹9,990
Another great pick from IKEA, this rattan bench is a true multitasker. This clutter-busting hero comes with a secret storage compartment. It has room for everything, from extra blankets and toys to that ever-growing pile of sneakers. Plus, this is a neutral piece that can blend into any aesthetic.
Andaman Havelock armchair by Orange Tree, ₹71,999
This statement piece will elevate your entire space. Crafted with enduring acacia wood, this armchair embodies the timeless elegance attributed to rattan furniture. Its slanted legs are designed for greater stability, and it’s built to last, ensuring longevity without compromising on comfort. Whether you’re curling up with a book or entertaining guests, this chair is going to be everyone’s favourite hot seat.
Rattan study desk by Lakkadhaara, ₹19,000
With a stylish work/study desk like this, which uses darkly-stained sheesham wood with vibrant accents and weaves, who wouldn’t want to get down to business? Drawing inspiration from mid-century design, this desk features hand-woven cane sheeting, which gives it texture and character, while the sunshine orange and yellow drawers bring a playful pop of colour into your space.
Mod teak wood and wicker bed by Freedom Tree, ₹1,15,300 – ₹1,20,800
This mid-century modern bed is crafted from solid teak wood, and comes with a smart black finish that adds that touch of contemporary style. A statement bedroom piece, this bed is available in both king and queen sizes. A terrific addition to your sleep sanctuary (here’s how to turn your bedroom into one).
Rattan flower-shaped lampshade by Home Canvas, ₹10,320
These lampshades add a touch of whimsy to any room. Whether it’s your dining room, drawing room or bedroom, this lighting addition will act like an instant facelift. It’s a versatile piece that seamlessly fits into any home decor style, from coastal to boho.
Merida rattan floor vases by West Elm, ₹15,000
Crafted from handwoven rattan, these vases are not only visually stunning but also built to last. Now, these pieces might score slightly higher on style than functionality, as their weave is not watertight. So think of it as a decor piece where you can display dried flowers or pampas grass, instead of fresh flowers.
Cochin rattan bar chair by Gulmohar Lane, ₹17,500
This solid hardwood chair is not just a good-looking piece—it’s all about comfort. With its generously padded seat, angled backrest and metal footrest, you’ll find yourself perfectly at ease as you enjoy long, cocktail-fuelled conversations.
Kovo rattan table by Mason Home, ₹13,500
Crafted from a blend of rattan, glass, wood and iron, this set of three tables has a polished wood finish. Whether you’re enjoying a sofa dinner or adding an ornamental touch to your room, these tables will surely impress. Designed for versatility, their nesting feature allows you to save space when the tables are not in use, making them perfect for compact living spaces.
Nivasa wall cabinet by Fabindia, ₹24,900
Imagine if Mary Poppins used her magic umbrella and conjured up beautiful storage solution for your home—the result would be this cabinet by Fabindia. Crafted with care and precision, this elegant cabinet means business when it comes to storage, offering ample space to tuck away your treasures.
