Keep it real

rattan

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Rattan is a lovely material. And the good news is that it’s one of the most sustainable natural fibres - so avoid that nasty plastic stuff at all costs!

Above:

Chateauneuf rattan sleigh bed from the French Bedroom Company. Elegant Louis XV styling with a touch of colonial cool. Bed frame made from reycled mahogany wood. From £1,195

Right:

Willow Robe rattan fronted wardrobe, 190x100x61cm, £1395 from Loaf

Above: flower petal Round Rattan Mirror, 49cm dia, £26.95 at Melody Maker Left: Elin oak and rattan chest, £895 at Sweetpea & Willow Below: 2-seater rattan sofa, £725 at Limited Abode

Above: rock it in rattan...Flat rattan tub chair at www.coxandcox.co.uk costs £325 and is perfect for a bedroom or a conservatory. Below left: Cozy Living Queen Natural Rattan foldable room divider /screen, 185x56x3cm, £240 at www.cuckooland.com

Rattan is a climbing palm which develops as a vine in jungles. The vines of the rattan grow up trees in the rainforest and can reach 100s of metres high. The vines when harvested are typically cut into 13-foot lengths and left to dry in the sun. Bear in mind though that real rattan furniture shouldn’t get wet so have a cover for it or bring it inside when it rains.

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Left:Key Largo grey rattan linen basket, handmade by artisans in Semarang, Indonesia, £89 at Maine Furniture Co Below: Lot honey coloured rattan hanging chair, £299 at Beaumond

Bottom right:

Rattan hallway bench, handmade in Indonesia, 57x120x40cm, £199 at Maine Furniture Co