The Timeless Appeal of Rattan & Wicker: Styling Tips for Tropical, Boho and Modern Interiors
Few natural materials bring as much warmth, texture and organic charm to interior spaces as rattan and wicker. These versatile fibres have been crafted into furniture and decorative objects for centuries, yet continue to feel fresh and relevant in contemporary homes. From the tropical tiki bars of the 1950s to the boho-chic interiors of today, rattan and wicker have proven their enduring appeal across design eras.
At Sourced Wonders, our collection of vintage rattan and wicker pieces showcases the remarkable versatility of these materials. Whether you're drawn to the sculptural forms of mid-century modern rattan chairs, the intricate Edwardian wicker mirrors, or the laidback charm of 1970s peacock chairs, understanding how to style these pieces will help you create spaces with character and depth.
In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore:
The fascinating history and key characteristics of rattan versus wicker
How to incorporate these materials into various interior styles from boho to minimalist
Expert tips for maintaining and restoring vintage rattan and wicker pieces
Why these natural materials remain so beloved by designers and homeowners
Understanding Rattan and Wicker
While often used interchangeably, rattan and wicker are distinct in important ways that affect their use in furniture and decor.
Rattan: The Natural Material
Rattan is a solid material - a fast-growing vine from the palm family that grows in tropical regions across Southeast Asia, Africa and Australia. Its unique properties make it ideal for furniture:
Incredibly strong yet flexible structure
Smooth, even texture when peeled
Naturally lightweight compared to wood
Takes well to staining and finishing
Traditional uses of rattan include:
Structural frames for chairs, tables and bed frames
Hand-woven mats and screens
Decorative trim and detailing
Wicker: The Ancient Craft
Wicker refers not to a material but to the centuries-old technique of weaving flexible plant fibres into furniture and decorative objects. Common materials used in wickerwork include:
Rattan (most common for furniture)
Willow, cane and reed
Bamboo (particularly in tropical styles)
Synthetic fibres in modern pieces
The wicker technique creates:
Lightweight yet durable furniture
Intricate decorative patterns
Excellent ventilation (ideal for warm climates)
Key Differences
Understanding these distinctions helps when shopping for vintage pieces:
Rattan is the material; wicker is the weaving method
Most rattan furniture incorporates some wicker elements
Wicker can be made from materials other than rattan
The History of Rattan and Wicker in Interior Design
These natural materials have cycled in and out of fashion for centuries, each revival bringing new interpretations.
Early 20th Century: The Golden Age
The Victorian and Edwardian eras saw wickerwork reach new heights of popularity:
Ornate wicker parlour sets for conservatories
Delicate dressing tables and mirrors
Summer furniture for porches and gardens
Mid-Century Modern: Tropical Influences
The 1950s-70s brought rattan into contemporary interiors:
Sleek, sculptural designs by makers like McGuire
Tiki bar culture inspired tropical rattan pieces
Danish designers used rattan for chair seats and backs
1970s Boho Chic
Rattan became synonymous with the free-spirited 70s aesthetic:
Oversized peacock chairs
Macramé and rattan combinations
Earthy, natural colour palettes
Contemporary Revival
Today's designers are finding fresh ways to use these classics:
Minimalist rattan lighting
Wicker room dividers in modern lofts
Mixed-material furniture combining rattan with metal or glass
Styling Rattan and Wicker in Different Interior Schemes
The versatility of these materials means they can adapt to nearly any design style with the right approach.
Tropical and Tiki Inspired Interiors
For those drawn to island vibes and mid-century tropical style:
Look for darker stained rattan pieces with clean lines
Incorporate bamboo accents for authenticity
Add tropical plants like monstera or palms
Use vintage tiki barware as decorative objects
Choose pieces with open, airy designs to maintain lightness
Key vintage finds for this style:
1950s rattan bar carts
McGuire-style rattan sofas
Bamboo-framed mirrors and artwork
Boho Chic Spaces
Create that effortlessly collected boho look with:
Mix of rattan textures and natural materials
Layered textiles in earthy tones
Abundant greenery and hanging plants
Eclectic vintage finds from different eras
Plush floor cushions and low seating
Perfect boho rattan pieces:
1970s peacock chairs
Wicker hanging pod chairs
Rattan room dividers
Woven wall baskets
Scandinavian Minimalism
For those who prefer clean, airy spaces:
Stick to light natural rattan tones
Choose simple, functional designs
Pair with pale woods and white walls
Limit to a few statement pieces
Focus on quality craftsmanship
Ideal minimalist rattan:
Danish modern armchairs
Woven pendant lights
Slim-profile rattan shelves
Understated wicker storage
Industrial and Urban Lofts
Surprisingly, rattan works beautifully in edgier spaces when:
Mixed with metal and concrete elements
Used as textural contrast to hard surfaces
Kept in simple, geometric forms
Combined with leather upholstery
Great loft-friendly pieces:
Rattan and iron barstools
Wicker industrial-style pendants
Minimalist rattan side tables
Caring for Vintage Rattan and Wicker
Proper maintenance ensures your pieces last for decades to come.
Routine Cleaning
Dust weekly with soft brush attachment
Vacuum gently with upholstery attachment
Wipe with barely damp microfiber cloth
Avoid harsh chemicals or excessive moisture
Deep Cleaning
For more thorough cleaning:
Mix mild soap with lukewarm water
Dip soft cloth, wring nearly dry
Wipe along weave pattern
Dry immediately with clean towel
Allow to air dry completely
Repair and Restoration
Common issues and solutions:
Loose weaving:
Apply wood glue with fine brush
Clamp gently until dry
Wrap with fabric to protect from clamp marks
Fading or dryness:
Apply rattan oil or beeswax polish
Buff with soft cloth
Reapply annually
Mould or mildew:
Mix equal parts white vinegar and water
Dab (don't soak) affected areas
Dry thoroughly in sunlight
Structural damage:
Consult professional restorer
Consider creative solutions like upholstered seats
Preventive Care
Rotate pieces to ensure even exposure to light
Use coasters under drinks
Avoid placing near heat sources
Consider protective pads under furniture feet
Why Rattan and Wicker Remain Timeless
Several factors explain the enduring popularity of these natural materials:
Sustainability
Rapidly renewable resource
Biodegradable at end of life
Low energy production compared to synthetic alternatives
Versatility
Adapts to countless design styles
Works in any room from bedroom to patio
Suitable for both furniture and decor
Tactile Quality
Adds warmth and texture to spaces
Creates visual interest through natural variations
Develops beautiful patina over time
Emotional Connection
Evokes nostalgia and comfort
Brings organic element to modern lives
Handcrafted quality stands out in mass-produced world
Conclusion
From the intricate wickerwork of Victorian conservatories to the sleek rattan designs of mid-century modernists, these natural materials have proven their design staying power. Today's interiors continue to find fresh ways to incorporate vintage rattan and wicker pieces, whether as bold statement items or subtle textural accents.
At Sourced Wonders, we carefully curate our collection of vintage rattan and wicker furniture to offer pieces with exceptional craftsmanship and character. Each item tells a story of design history while remaining completely relevant for contemporary living.
We invite you to explore our current selection of rattan and wicker pieces, or contact us for personalized recommendations to help you find the perfect vintage item for your space. With proper care, these timeless pieces will bring warmth and style to your home for years to come.