Durable, versatile, comfortable and, of course, effortlessly stylish, it's not hard to see why rattan is an enduring trend in interiors. If you're looking to incorporate this natural material at home but don't know where to start, consider a rattan chair (or two).
Rattan, made from palm vines woven together, became a staple in the 70s due to its relaxed, almost bohemian vibe (think: rattan furniture, jute rugs, clear materials and macramé wall hangings). In recent years rattan has been used for outdoor furniture too, largely due to its durability, but is now often made from synthetic PE rattan.
So, why synthetic rattan? Victoria Fletcher, senior buyer at Garden Trading, explains: 'PE rattan is crafted from the highest quality polyethylene. This material captures the look and feel of natural rattan while surpassing its limitations. It’s an excellent choice for your outdoor areas as it’s renowned for its longevity. This recycled plastic alternative is durable, UV resistant and contains waterproof properties.'
The best rattan chairs to shop
Whether you're looking for a few rattan dining chairs to pep up your dining room, or perhaps some folding chairs for seating extra guests, here are the best rattan chairs to bring a laidback look to your home.
Desser has been producing rattan furniture for over 100 years so, of course, we had to include some of their iconic pieces in our roundup. This loft chair has an arching cane design for a visually interesting look. It comes with plump cushions for added comfort.
Handcrafted from natural rattan with black metal legs, Dunelm's Pax bar stool is a fabulously stylish option – and at a great price, too. Style with aztec cushions and burnt orange accessories for a breezy bohemian look.
Part of the specially commissioned collection in celebration of Habitat's 60 years of British design, this Wyatt chair is a truly unique piece. Handmade by skilled craftsmen, it features a bold blue colourway for a daring, maximalist look.
H&M's low rattan lounge chair has long been a fan favourite on Instagram and it's not hard to see why. Made from meranti wood with cane backing and a low seat, this minimalist piece is effortlessly stylish.
This chic outdoor chair from Garden Trading proves that rattan isn't just for interiors. Made from weather-resistant, highly durable PE rattan (that looks just like the real thing), the Corston lounge chair is perfect for bringing a relaxed vibe to any patio, decking or conservatory.
Blending contemporary style with rustic elements, Dunelm's Alma chair is as comfortable as it is on trend. It's made from recycled fabric that's super soft to the touch, and is finished off with a wooden base and rattan accents.
Handmade from natural rattan, Desser's Seoul chair provides a wide and deep sit for comfortable lounging. We love the boucle cushion for some added cosy texture.
Available in blue, coral, green and white, the Loha chair boasts an elegantly curved silhouette with a rich rubberwood base. The rattan cutout detailing and deep colourways make for a statement living room piece.
Folding chairs are a great choice if you're looking to host large numbers of people: they're budget-friendly and functional but are often considered unsightly. With a solid wood frame and rattan back and seat, Habitat's Peio chair is here to prove that folding chairs can be practical and stylish.
Pep up your dining room by incorporating rattan dining chairs. This stylish black option from La Redoute will bring a hygge feel to your space, especially when paired with matching natural materials (think: mango wood and seagrass).
Made from reclaimed wood with a cane back, Anthropologie's Ashton chair brings a sense of the outdoors inside. Look closely and you'll spot the natural grain patterns that give this piece its authentic rustic look.
Emulate the rusticicity of Anthropologie's Ashton chair on a budget with The Range's viral Oslo chair. With a similar sculptural shape and padded cream cushion, this rattan chair will bring a relaxed bohemian feel (without breaking the bank).
Made from acacia wood with a rattan seat and back, the Madrisana bar stool is another quality artisanal piece from Nkuku. Because of the handmade nature, pieces can be on the pricey side, but you can currently get 20 per cent off with the code SUMMER20.
Bring some retro flair to your dining room with these achingly cool chairs from Homebase. The classic cantilever design oozes so much original style that you'd think they were a rare vintage find, rather than under £100 for a set of two!