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 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.

Make your bedhead the focal point with the Java Queen Bedhead Arch from Eureka Street Furniture. The unique round arch of the rattan mimics rays of sunshine, bringing the outdoors into your bedroom without ever having to leave. Go one step further and keep your bedsheets light and textured to create serenity in your space.

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.

Swing into the beautiful days relaxing under the Australian sun in the Pod Chair from the Dario Outdoor Collection at Harvey Norman. The collection exhibits a sleek, modern design in a contrasting colour palette for a sophisticated touch to your alfresco lounging and dining. Made from sturdy aluminium and resin wicker, the collection is built to weather rain or shine with no compromise to comfort.

Serene surrounds

Let’s be honest, not all of us can live near a breezy beach where the waves crashing outside lull us to sleep, or where the sea salt mist can graze over our skin sending us into holiday bliss. That doesn’t mean we can’t bring a sense of serenity and relaxation into our homes here in the burbs!

Find the perfect little additions to welcome in the beachfront atmosphere, such as textured cream and blue pillows, rattan accented mirrors and banana palm prints for the walls. 

It doesn’t matter where you live, bring the tranquility of a summer stay into your own living room.

Rattan indeed

Some say to ‘go big or go home’, which will you choose? If you’re a ‘go big’ person then definitely go and make your main furniture pieces cohesive with the style you’re going for.

If you’re into the rattan look – grab these rattan woven chairs and surround your dining table. Add a light throw on the back of one or two for a warm and cosy feel when sitting down for meals.

On the other hand, if you’d like to ease into the rattan renaissance, add some woven plant baskets with tassels to channel the style without the price tag. (Though we’re convinced you’ll go big on the rattan trend in no time!)

1. Banana Palm Print $52.50, Eureka Street Furniture
2. Tiare Mirror $99.95, Pillow Talk
3. Amala Oblong Cushion in blue $39.95, Pillow Talk
4. Citra Dining Chair (request price), Harvey Norman
5. Planter with Tassel $11.90, Eureka Street Furniture

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. These stylish Sonora Baskets from Pillow Talk would be a perfect fit for a corner in your house, or to spruce up your ever-growing plant collection that you’ve accumulated throughout the year.