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How to incorporate rattan furniture into modern interiors

Rattan furniture has been gaining popularity in recent years and for good reason! It’s a tactile and natural material that brings a touch of nature indoors while adding an element of timeless elegance to modern interiors. Rattan is also versatile, sustainable, and has a unique aesthetic appeal, making it a favourite among designers and homeowners alike. If you’re wondering how to incorporate this trending material into your home, you’re in the right place. Let’s explore the myriad of ways you can weave rattan into your modern decor seamlessly.

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Curved rattan mirror in ensuite bathroom
We love how this rattan mirror makes a statement and adds warmth to this modern bathroom | Take the home tour

Embracing the natural aesthetic

Rattan furniture is all about embracing natural textures and tones. Its organic look can soften the edges of contemporary spaces, adding warmth and a relaxed vibe. Start with a statement piece, like a rattan armchair, mirror or coffee table, to introduce the material into your home. These pieces can create a striking contrast against modern furnishings, bringing a balanced mix of styles. We especially love how the arch rattan mirror above softens the hard materials and lines of the contemporary bathroom.

Combining rattan with modern materials

One of the best aspects of rattan is how it complements just about every other material. Pair rattan furniture with sleek metals, glass, or concrete for a chic, contemporary look. For instance, a rattan chair next to a metal side table, or a glass-topped rattan table, can bridge the gap between earthy and modern aesthetics, offering a sophisticated yet approachable style.

Mixing prints and patterns

Modern interiors often play with different textiles, mixing prints and patterns, and rattan fits perfectly into this narrative. Combine rattan furniture with plush fabrics, soft throws, and patterned cushions to create a layered, inviting space. The juxtaposition of rattan’s natural weave with other textures can enhance the visual interest and depth of your room.

rattan chairs
Caitlin shows how to mix patterns and prints in her warm living room | Image from @beachroadinteriors

Add texture and sophistication with rattan laundry baskets

If you just want to dip your toe in, starting with rattan home accessories is the way to go! One of our fave modern laundry ideas is to embrace rattan laundry baskets — it will instantly add texture and colour to your laundry. These baskets blend functionality with style, offering breathable designs that keep laundry fresh and sturdy construction for heavy loads. Available in various shapes and sizes, they seamlessly integrate into any contemporary laundry setup. Finish off your stylish laundry with floating shelves decorated with minimalist decor, some wall hooks or wall art, and beautiful products by the sink. Find even more ideas to style your laundry area here.

Creating cosy corners

Another idea to ease your way into the rattan trend is by creating a cosy corner. Rattan furniture is ideal for creating a cosy, inviting corner in your home. Think of a rattan armchair or a hanging chair paired with a soft cushion and a knitted throw. These pieces are perfect for reading nooks, sunrooms, or even as a focal point in a spacious living room. The natural light filtering through the weave of rattan adds a sense of tranquillity and relaxation.

Rattan dining chairs with stone fireplace
These rattan doing chairs complement this modern dining space by Bone Made

Enhancing your dining space with rattan dining chairs

Quality rattan dining chairs are an excellent option for introducing this natural material into your dining area, providing both comfort and style. Their lightweight yet sturdy construction makes them practical for everyday use, while their intricate weaves add a touch of elegance. Pair them with a modern glass or wooden dining table to create a harmonious blend of textures. Whether you opt for a complete set or mix them with other styles, rattan dining chairs can instantly uplift your dining space, making it more inviting and visually appealing.

Rattan lighting fixtures

Don’t limit rattan to just furniture – consider incorporating rattan in your lighting fixtures. Rattan pendant lights or lampshades can add an exotic, bohemian flair to your interiors. The warm, diffused light through the rattan weave creates a cosy and inviting atmosphere, perfect for living rooms, bedrooms, or dining areas.

Outdoor and indoor versatility

Rattan’s durability makes it an excellent choice for both indoor and outdoor use. Consider extending your interior style to your patio or balcony with rattan furniture. Matching indoor and outdoor rattan pieces can create a seamless flow between your living spaces, making your home feel larger and more cohesive. Outdoor rattan sofas or dining sets are perfect for creating an alfresco dining experience or a relaxing outdoor lounge.

The Block 2020_week 10_front garden and facade_Luke and Jasmin_seating
Rattan furniture creates a welcoming first impression on the patio of this home featured on The Block

Other reasons to love rattan

Sustainable and eco-friendly choice

With increasing awareness of sustainability, rattan stands out as an eco-friendly furniture choice. It is a rapidly renewable resource, and many rattan pieces are handcrafted, supporting traditional craftsmanship and reducing the environmental impact of mass production. By choosing rattan, you are not only enhancing your home’s aesthetic but also making a conscious decision for the environment.

Customisation and personal touch

Rattan furniture offers plenty of customisation options. You can choose from various finishes, from natural, unpainted rattan to painted or stained versions that match your colour scheme. Adding your personal touch with custom cushions or upholstery can make your rattan pieces truly unique and tailored to your taste.

Maintenance and care

Rattan furniture is relatively low maintenance but requires some care to keep it looking its best. Regular dusting and occasional wiping with a damp cloth can keep your rattan pieces clean. Avoid placing rattan furniture in direct sunlight or overly humid areas to prevent damage. With proper care, your rattan furniture can remain a beautiful and durable part of your home for years.

Boho styled master bedroom
Rattan lighting creates a statement but can also be easily switched out if your style or tastes change | Master bedroom of Global Retreat

When incorporating rattan into modern interiors, balance is key. Neutral colour palettes work well with rattan’s natural tones, creating a serene and harmonious look. However, don’t shy away from accent colours. Rattan’s versatility allows it to complement both subdued and vibrant colour schemes. Experiment with colourful cushions, rugs, or artwork to see what works best with your rattan pieces.

We hope this guide on how to style rattan furniture into modern interiors inspires you to embrace this natural material in your home! Or perhaps you already use rattan in a different way? We’d love you to chat with us in the comments below!

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Gina Beschorner Style Curator

Welcome to Style Curator, your destination for daily interiors inspiration, styling tips, reno advice, home tours and DIY projects!

We're on a mission to help you create a home you love. And with plenty of tips and tricks, tutorials and other home inspo, we give you all the tools to achieve it!

I’m Gina, Founder and Interior Designer, and you can read more about Style Curator here.

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