Rattan is having a massive moment. Scroll through any interior design feed and you'll see it — woven cabinet doors, rattan dining chairs, cane-backed headboards. It's not just a trend. Rattan has deep roots in mid century modern design, and it's come back stronger than ever.
Here's why rattan works so well with mid mod interiors, and how to bring it into your home.
Rattan vs Wicker vs Cane: What's the Difference?
| Material | What It Is | Best Used For |
|---|---|---|
| Rattan | A palm vine — the raw material. Can be shaped into frames or woven into panels. | Chair frames, table structures, thick weaves |
| Wicker | A weaving technique, not a material. Can use rattan, bamboo, or synthetic fibers. | Baskets, lightweight chairs, outdoor furniture |
| Cane | The outer skin of the rattan vine, peeled and woven into sheets. | Chair backs, cabinet doors, headboards — the classic grid pattern |
| PE Rattan | Synthetic (polyethylene) that mimics natural rattan. Weather-resistant. | Outdoor furniture, bar stools, patios |
Why Rattan Works with Mid Century Design
Mid century modern is all about natural materials, organic shapes, and warmth. Rattan checks every box:
- Texture: Mid mod spaces can lean cold with too much smooth wood and clean lines. Rattan adds visual warmth and tactile interest.
- Lightness: Rattan pieces feel airy and open, matching the mid century obsession with visual lightness.
- Natural beauty: Like walnut or teak, rattan celebrates its natural character. No two woven patterns are exactly alike.
- Versatility: Works in every room — dining chairs, coffee tables, bar stools, cabinet doors, headboards.
PE Rattan: The Outdoor-Safe Option
Natural rattan can't handle rain, sun, or humidity extremes. That's where PE (polyethylene) rattan comes in:
- UV-resistant — won't fade in direct sunlight
- Waterproof — handles rain, splashes, and humidity
- Easy to clean — wipe with a damp cloth
- Looks nearly identical to natural rattan
- Perfect for patios, pool areas, and covered porches
Our outdoor bar stools and dining sets use PE rattan on powder-coated aluminum or iron frames — built to last outdoors.
How to Style Rattan in Your Home
Living Room
A rattan-front TV console or coffee table with woven accents adds boho warmth to a mid mod living room. Pair with a solid walnut side table for contrast.
Dining Room
Rattan dining chairs around a solid wood table is the perfect mid-century-meets-bohemian combination. The contrast between woven texture and smooth wood is what makes it work.
Bedroom
A nightstand or dresser with rattan drawer fronts softens the bedroom. Add a woven pendant light to complete the look.
Patio
PE rattan bar sets and dining sets turn any outdoor space into an extension of your interior design. Look for sets with cushions for comfort.
Caring for Rattan
- Natural rattan: Dust regularly, wipe with a damp (not wet) cloth, avoid direct sunlight and excessive moisture
- PE rattan: Hose down, wipe clean, leave in the rain — it can handle it
- Both: Avoid placing heavy objects that could permanently stretch or deform the weave
Shop Rattan Furniture
Browse our rattan and wicker pieces — bar stools, dining chairs, coffee tables, and more. Every piece ships from US warehouses with free shipping over $299.
