Buying Rattan for Furniture: How to Choose Quality, Style, and Longevity

Rattan has firmly established itself as a cornerstone of interior design, evolving from a nostalgic material of the 1970s into a symbol of modern, organic luxury. Whether you are furnishing a sun-drenched conservatory, a minimalist living room, or a busy family kitchen, choosing rattan for furniture offers a blend of durability, sustainability, and timeless aesthetic appeal.

However, the surge in popularity has flooded the market with varying qualities of rattan furniture, ranging from exquisite artisan pieces to mass-produced imitations. For the discerning buyer, understanding the nuances of this material is essential. This guide will go beyond the basics, helping you identify high-quality rattan, distinguish it from synthetic alternatives, and make an investment that will last for decades.

The Material Difference: Natural Rattan vs. Synthetic Wicker

When shopping for “rattan furniture,” the first challenge is navigating the terminology. The terms “rattan” and “wicker” are often used interchangeably, but they mean very different things.

• Rattan is the material itself—a naturally growing vine from the palm family (Calamoideae) found in the tropical forests of Southeast Asia. It is solid, fibrous, and exceptionally strong.
• Wicker is the technique of weaving. You can weave with rattan, willow, straw, or synthetic plastic.

Today, the market is split between:

1. Natural Rattan: Used primarily for indoor or semi-outdoor (covered) spaces. It offers unmatched warmth, a unique tactile quality, and biodegradability.
2. Synthetic Rattan (PE Rattan or Polyrattan): Made from polyethylene resin. While it mimics the look of natural rattan, it is a plastic product designed for full weather exposure in gardens.

If you are looking for the authentic charm and environmental benefits of rattan for furniture, always verify that the product description specifies “natural rattan” or “Manau rattan” (a premium variety).

How to Spot High-Quality Rattan Furniture

Not all natural rattan furniture is created equal. The quality depends on the maturity of the vine harvested and the craftsmanship of the build. Here is what to look for when inspecting a piece:

1. Smoothness of the Vine High-quality rattan poles are sanded to a smooth finish. Run your hand along the frame (the arms, legs, and back). It should feel sleek and free of splinters or rough fibrous hairs. Rough rattan indicates a younger, less durable vine or poor processing.

2. The “Knuckles” or Nodes Rattan grows in segments, similar to bamboo. The points where these segments meet are called nodes. On premium furniture, these nodes should be smoothed down. If they are protruding or sharp, it suggests lower-quality finishing.

3. The Binding (The Wrappings) Look closely at the joints where the legs meet the seat or where the arms attach to the back. In traditional rattan furniture construction, these joints are wrapped with strands of cane (rattan peel) or leather.

• Quality Check: The wrapping should be tight, intricate, and flush against the frame. If you see gaps, loose ends, or if the wrapping is made of plastic instead of natural cane, the structural integrity may be compromised over time.

4. Frame Thickness and Density Lift the chair or table. While rattan is known for being lightweight, it shouldn’t feel flimsy. A good piece of rattan furniture has a solid, dense core frame that feels substantial. The main structural poles should be thick enough to support weight without bowing.

Styling Rattan for Modern Interiors

Gone are the days when rattan was reserved for “tropical” themed rooms. Today, it is a neutral that grounds various design styles.

• The Scandi-Japandi Approach: In minimalist spaces, rattan adds essential warmth. Choose pieces with clean lines and blonde or natural finishes. A simple rattan armchair with a sheepskin throw is a staple of this look.
• The Modern Bohemian: This style embraces the “more is more” philosophy. Layer different textures of rattan—a peacock chair, a rattan coffee table, and rattan plant stands—mixed with velvet cushions and lush greenery.
• The Coastal & Hamptons Look: Rattan is native to this style. Opt for “grey-wash” or “whitewashed” rattan furniture to evoke the feeling of driftwood and sea air.

The Sustainability Factor

Choosing rattan for furniture is also an ethical choice. Rattan is a non-timber forest product. Unlike timber logging, which requires cutting down trees, harvesting rattan involves cutting the vine, which regenerates rapidly (often within 5-7 years). Furthermore, the rattan industry provides a vital economic incentive for local communities to preserve the rainforests, as the vines need trees to climb. By purchasing authentic rattan, you are supporting a sustainable ecosystem and traditional craftsmanship.

Conclusion: An Investment in Nature

When you choose rattan for furniture, you are bringing a piece of the natural world into your home. It is a material that “breathes,” adapts to its environment, and develops a beautiful patina over time. By knowing how to spot the markers of quality—smooth finishes, tight bindings, and solid frames—you can ensure that your rattan furniture remains a stylish and functional part of your home for generations to come.