The allure of rattan

Lulu Lytle’s Rattan showcases her furniture for Soane Britain as well as a decorative history of this traditional material.

Rattan was in my Christmas stocking. While the holiday is long over, the joy continues. Most notably is the joy from my gifted books. One of my favorites focused on a single material. Rattan. It might surprise you.

Noted designers often used this simple material.

Madeleine Castaing. (Photo: Alexandre Bailhache)

Madeleine Castaing. (Photo: Alexandre Bailhache)

A quirky chair brings whimsy to this Parisian bedroom.

Southhampton sunporch by Virginia Tupker. (Photo: Eric Piasecki)

Southhampton sunporch by Virginia Tupker. (Photo: Eric Piasecki)

It grounds this sophisticated sunroom. Home of Lauren Santo Domingo.

(Photo: Guido Taroni)

(Photo: Guido Taroni)

Yves Saint Laurent’s homes are perfection. Woven rattan lined the walls of this Villa Mabrouka bedroom.

Milan sitting room by Renzo Mongiardino. (Photo: Massimo Listri)

Milan sitting room by Renzo Mongiardino. (Photo: Massimo Listri)

Milan sitting room by Renzo Mongiardino. (Photo: Massimo Listri)

Milan sitting room by Renzo Mongiardino. (Photo: Massimo Listri)

Renzo Mongiardino tempers his opulent rooms with the inclusion of wicker.

(Photo: Eric Boman)

(Photo: Eric Boman)

He used the material repeatedly in Marella Agnelli’s numerous homes. Her patio in Ain Kassimou in Marrakesh is pictured above.

It turned up in unlikely places.

Mr. Kenneth's beauty salon decorated by Billy Baldwin, New York, 1963. (Photo: Estate of Evelyn Hofer, Getty Images)

Mr. Kenneth’s beauty salon decorated by Billy Baldwin, New York, 1963. (Photo: Estate of Evelyn Hofer, Getty Images)

Who wouldn’t want to have their hair styled in this salon? Seeing this photo reminds me why I became a designer. Similarly, it reminds me to be more creative.

Malibu kitchen by Amber Lewis. (Photo: Tess Neustadt)

Malibu kitchen by Amber Lewis. (Photo: Tess Neustadt)

This banquette is so clever. Modern yet natural. Perfect for California.

(Photo: Joanna Maclennan)

(Photo: Joanna Maclennan)

Still wanting one of these wicker pedestal urns by Atelier Vime.

Carlos Mota's Santo Domingo apartment. (Photo: Simon Upton)

Carlos Mota’s Santo Domingo apartment. (Photo: Simon Upton)

Exotic dining.

(Photo: adoc-photos, Getty Images)

(Photo: adoc-photos, Getty Images)

In conclusion, we should all take a second look at rattan. Not only is it chic; it is versatile and sustainable.

Casa V Interiors loves it. There may be a perfect spot for it in your home.