Love the idea of natural textures but worried rattan will look out of place in your traditional home? Fear not! This guide will show you exactly how to embrace rattan with stylish confidence, adding unexpected warmth and a touch of organic charm to your beloved spaces.
CLJ x Shades of Light Greta Table Lamp | Polly’s Room Sources
Now, let’s get a few things straight. When it comes to rattan, I embrace gorgeous pieces with a nice, tight, thin weave. That’s where the elegance lies, that subtle texture that feels refined, not rustic. And color-wise? Steer clear of anything gray-washed, please and thank you! But beyond that, most natural tones are absolutely fair game, bringing that beautiful organic feel without looking overly beachy.
It’s also worth noting the difference between rattan (the actual product, a naturally growing vine) and wicker (the weaving technique, which can be applied to various materials, including rattan, resin, or even plastic). And while we’re nerding out for a second, did you know that rattan is more durable than bamboo, thanks to its denser structure? Just a little tidbit to tuck away! However, rattan is not happy in high humidity as it’s not water-resistant, so keep that in mind.
The key with making rattan fit into a more traditional home style (like ours!) is to not overdo it. It’s about those intentional touches that add warmth and texture without sacrificing the classic charm you’ve already cultivated. So, are you ready to see rattan in a new, incredibly stylish light? Let’s dive in!
Start with Accents
Rattan Basket | Laundry Room Sources
Sometimes, the smallest touches make the most significant difference. If you’re hesitant to fully embrace the rattan trend, starting with accents is the perfect way to test the waters.
Think of a beautifully woven tray gracing your coffee table, adding a subtle organic element amidst your books and candles. Or how about a rattan lampshade, casting the most gorgeous, dappled light as the evening sets in? Even a simple rattan planter can instantly soften the lines of a ceramic pot and bring a touch of the outdoors in.
What’s so wonderful about these smaller pieces is how effortlessly they blend. Styled alongside warm neutrals, the rich grain of wood tones, and even a pop of deep, saturated color, rattan never feels like it’s wandered in from the beach.
Instead, it adds this incredible layer of natural texture, a visual softness that keeps your home feeling grounded and inviting, all without disrupting that traditional charm you’ve cultivated.
Layer Around Rich Textiles
Rattan Lampshade | Greta’s Room Sources
Here’s a little secret: rattan shines when paired with luxurious fabrics. Think about the tactile richness of velvet, the relaxed elegance of linen, or the intricate patterns of jacquard. Layering these textures around your rattan pieces creates a beautiful contrast that elevates the entire space.
The airiness of the rattan prevents these heavier fabrics from feeling too formal or weighty, while the fabrics, in turn, ground the natural material, giving it a more sophisticated edge.
Imagine a rattan side table next to a velvet sofa, or a rattan headboard flanked by crisp linen bedding. This interplay of textures adds depth and visual interest, making your space feel thoughtfully curated and incredibly inviting.
It’s all about finding that perfect balance between the natural and the refined.
Think Unexpected Touches
Rattan Planter | Backyard Sources
This is where the fun begins! Forget the obvious spots and start considering where a touch of rattan could add a surprising element of personality without feeling out of place.
Take the home office, for example. Instead of metal plastic bins, imagine the warmth and texture that rattan storage baskets could bring to your shelves, keeping everything organized in style. How about a stylish rattan waste bin, adding a touch of natural beauty to an otherwise utilitarian corner?
We’ve even seen beautiful rattan wall panels adding incredible texture and visual interest to a hallway or as a unique headboard alternative. It’s about stepping outside the box and considering how rattan’s natural weave and warm tones can soften unexpected spaces. There’s just an instant charm that you can add with rattan!
Mix It with Antiques
Rattan Vase (similar) | Rattan Basket | Bonus Room Sources
There’s something truly magical that happens when you bring together the patina of older pieces and the organic feel of rattan. The history and character etched into an antique dresser or side table beautifully complement the natural variations and texture of the woven material in a classic shape. It’s a conversation between different eras, a harmonious blend of the old and the new.
Think about a beautifully aged wooden desk paired with a rattan lamp, or a vase next to a vintage mirror. The contrast in their textures creates a sense of depth and authenticity, making your space feel collected and full of character. It’s about celebrating the beauty of imperfection and the richness that comes with time.
CLJ x Shades of Light Greta Table Lamp | Study Sources
Pair with Timeless Silhouettes
Just like mixing textures, pairing rattan with classic shapes creates a sense of effortless style. Take inspiration from Polly’s old room, where the natural texture of rattan sits beautifully alongside the timeless silhouette of the Jenny Lind daybed. The clean lines of the daybed provide a sophisticated foundation, while the rattan sculptural side table adds a touch of warmth and whimsy.
Side Table (similar) | Polly’s Room Sources
This combination works so well because the classic shapes feel familiar and grounding, allowing the natural texture of the rattan to shine without feeling overwhelming. It’s about creating a space that feels stylish and comfortable, where you can truly relax and feel at home.
Shop Rattan Accents
Rattan Bowl | Kitchen Sources
So, are you ready to see rattan in a whole new light? It’s more than just a summer staple; it’s a versatile material that can bring warmth, texture, and a touch of unexpected charm to every corner of your home.