What Types of Rattan Furniture are There?

Rattan furniture is a favourite for those who love a natural look that is also versatile and durable. Rattan is most frequently found in garden and outdoor furniture, although it can also be used indoors. 

If you are considering rattan for your yard, patio, or anywhere else in your home, you probably want to learn more about this stylish and sturdy furniture type. Read on to learn about the different types of rattan furniture and why you should choose this organic-inspired favourite for your home.

What is rattan furniture? 

Rattan is a plant material that comes from a vine-like plant related to the palm tree and is native to parts of Asia. The rattan plant is extremely tall, thin, durable, and flexible, making it useful for creating woven furniture. 

Many people confuse rattan with wicker as the resulting furniture looks similar. However, rattan is the material itself and wicker is the technique of weaving the furniture — wicker furniture can be crafted from rattan, but it can also be made of other materials such as willow and bamboo. 

What is synthetic rattan? 

While plenty of rattan furniture is made of natural materials, synthetic rattan is increasingly used to create a variety of rattan furniture pieces. Synthetic rattan is most commonly made from either polyethylene (PE), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), or polyurethane (PU). 

Synthetic rattan is great for durability, offering sturdy construction that is resistant to UV rays, mould, stains, and weather damage. 

What else goes into creating rattan furniture? 

Rattan — either natural or synthetic — is generally woven over a frame that gives it shape and extra sturdiness. This frame can be made of various metals such as aluminium, stainless steel, or wrought iron. Each different material option will change the weight, cost, and other factors. 

Because rattan furniture is textured due to the weave pattern, rattan tables usually have a table top in another, smoother material that offers the stability you need to set down plates or glasses. This tabletop may be made of polyfibre, toughened glass, or another hard-wearing, low-maintenance material. 

Rattan furniture often also comes with cushions that reflect the same amount of weather-resistant durability as the frame and weave, so you can enjoy your outdoor set for plenty of seasons to come. 

What does rattan furniture look like? 

Whether natural or synthetic, rattan furniture is appealing due to its organic vibe, and so the overall look of rattan furniture tends to reflect this aesthetic. Rattan is usually a colour such as grey, tan, or brown, and the cushions and other details generally also feature neutral hues. 

Because rattan is mostly used for garden furniture, the configuration of rattan furniture is similar across styles. Dining sets are the most common option, although you can choose the number or sizes of chairs that are best suited to your style and requirements. You can also opt for rattan furniture sets that offer a variety of special features such as a built-in firepit, a lazy susan, and an array of footstools or other details. 

Why is rattan furniture from Corcoran’s the best option for your garden? 

Rattan furniture sets are a fantastic option for your outdoor space. Whether you are a homeowner looking to spruce up your backyard, a business owner creating an ideal outdoor space for your guests and visitors, or even a renter who just wants a nice place to relax on an apartment terrace or townhouse patio, you can find fantastic rattan furniture options in store and online at Corcoran’s Furniture. 

Shop stylish bistro sets, sophisticated dining sets, and more — plus, finish the look with outdoor accessories and other essentials like rugs, patio flooring, and artificial grass. Find your nearest Corcoran’s store or browse and buy rattan furniture online, and create the perfect summer setup that you’ll enjoy for years to come. 

Looking for more outdoor inspiration? Read some of our favourite blog posts about garden furniture and more: 

• The best garden and outdoor trends for 2022
• Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about garden furniture
• How much maintenance does garden furniture need?