Rattan Outdoor Furniture

Designers favor rattan outdoor furniture to add a tropical flair to casual or formal settings. Harvested from tropical palms found primarily in Indonesia, the Philippines, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and Malaysia, rattan grows like a vine. Unlike bamboo outdoor furniture, which uses the plant's hollow stalks as framework, hardier rattan stems grow in long, solid vines. These long fibers can be woven into baskets or over metal frames to form the seats and backs of chairs, tables, shelving units, and headboards. For centuries, imported furnishings made of both materials were popular with the British Kingdom when the Empire was a formidable world power which colonized India. In the United States, these kinds of natural fiber furnishings may have become more popular when U.S. troops brought articles home from the Philippines, one of four islands which produce a third of the world's rattan. Wicker, a pliant plant material also used in basketry and furnishings, is similar but actually derived from the inner core of the woodier palm. The beauty and durability of tropical fibers make them a favorite for residential and commercial use. Beautifully designed exterior furnishings can be found in private homes, hotels, resorts, health clubs, vacation villas, or beachfront condominiums.

Paired with brilliantly hued floral prints, or citrus solids, rattan outdoor furniture is a staple in tropical islands, such as Hawaii and the Philippines. Its airy quality is perfect for humid regions where sand and sea would ruin solid wood pieces or metals. The fiber can be stained or painted like wood and protected with a coat of polymer. Imported rattan and bamboo outdoor furniture works beautifully on a patio or terrace; its tightly woven pattern appears in traditional, modern and contemporary styles to suit any decor. A beautiful, high quality piece will have an evenly woven pattern from top to bottom with imperceptible ends. Such weaving is reminiscent of Jesus' robe, which was woven in one continuous piece, symbolizing the wholeness of His broken body. "Then the soldiers, when they had crucified Jesus, took his garments, and made four parts, to every soldier a part; and also his coat: now the coat was without seam, woven from the top throughout. They said therefore among themselves, Let us not rend it, but cast lots for it, whose it shall be: that the scripture might be fulfilled, which saith, They parted my raiment among them, and for my vesture they did cast lots. These things therefore the soldiers did" (John 19:23-24).

Contrary to popular belief, natural woven furnishings are not just for casual settings. Some adventuresome brides opt for garden weddings featuring rattan outdoor furniture placed underneath wedding tents. Chairs and tables topped with white cloths and tropical centerpieces create a romantic island ambiance for informal or formal nuptials, offering guests comfortable seating for an unforgettable reception. Upscale resorts use custom designed rattan and bamboo outdoor furniture in reception areas, lounges, and massage areas to provide pampered guests a taste of the Caribbean. Restaurants and sidewalk cafes frequently use bamboo to add an island flavor to dining areas.

The beauty of rattan outdoor furniture is that it is practically maintenance free. The tightly woven fibers are surprisingly strong and require only a light dusting, vacuuming, or wipe with a soft cloth. Sturdy pieces have been known to last for decades without significant signs of wear and tear. Quality furnishings are also relatively light weight compared to solid wood units; and can be easily transported from porch to patio or near the pool. While woven fibers originate from tropical palms which can withstand water, furnishings are not as weather-resistant. Pieces should not be immersed in water or expected to endure constant or frequent downpours. Most furnishings fare well on a covered porch or patio out of direct sunlight. Rattan tends to fade in direct sun, while bamboo, usually kept in its natural state, is more resistant to heat and water.

Unlike its finer woven cousin, bamboo furniture is constructed from the thick, hollow stems of the woody plants. Fully mature stalks are sturdy, yet lightweight and are used as frames for household items such as bookshelves, chairs, headboards, and desks. Bamboo outdoor furniture works in casual or formal applications, depending on its color and construction. Darker woods have a more formal air and can be paired with white cushions for a dramatic appearance, while lighter, natural colored stalks are more casual. Lighter woods can be also fashioned into sturdy patio tables and chairs, chaise lounges, bar stools, and benches in relaxed settings.

While outdoor furniture can be purchased at retail stores, boutiques, and import markets, individual buyers may also shop online. Contract furniture companies sell to decorators, architects, and commercial enterprises; while wholesale importers may limit sales only to licensed businesses with resale certification. Rattan furnishings may cost slightly more than bamboo units, depending on the construction. Exterior ensembles require metal or heavier wood frames, which can account for the additional cost; while bamboo furnishings are usually made of 100 percent bamboo construction.

Either rattan or bamboo outdoor furniture is an exceptional choice for discriminating designers, restaurateurs, club owners, or resort managers who want to make a distinct statement and inject a tropical flair into casual or formal settings. Natural woods are warm and inviting and can be paired with pristine white cushions, tantalizing tropical prints, or citrus solids. The versatility and durability of rattan outdoor furniture lends itself to a myriad of design applications at vacation hot spots, tourist attractions, casual dining venues, or sidewalk cafes. From patio and chair ensembles, chaise lounges, stools, and benches; to bookshelves, credenzas and wall units, imports from Indonesia, Bali, and Sri Lanka have impacted interior design at home and abroad.