We Answer Wednesday - 10 ways to use wicker/rattan indoors

"Summer is almost over but I love the look and laid back feel of my rattan furniture.  Is there a way to bring rattan pieces inside so I can keep that summer style all year?"

It is so sad to see summer on it's way out - no matter how great the summer is it never seems long enough.  Rattan aka wicker furniture definitely has an outdoor air about it but it can definitely be brought indoors.  You definitely want to avoid bringing certain outdoor pieces inside, many are too bulky and don't "translate" well inside.  If you love rattan than use it indoors and follow these tips.

1.  Mix. Don't have an all rattan set like a dining set indoors.  It just looks like you brought the BBQ inside.  Try this instead. The rattan chairs have an indoor look with clean parson style legs and the slip covered captain chairs in a light airy canvas fabric help to soften all of the wood tones and textures.  This dining space has that breezy and laid back style but it still looks like an indoor space.



2. Moderation. A little bit can go a long way.  Try a few accents on indoor pieces.  This contemporary kitchen table with a touch of rattan on the seats only gives the space a casual look but doesnt change the style of the space.  It adds an organic and natural touch to the space adding warmth and texture.



3. Decor. Rattan has so much texture and warmth but maybe using it in furniture is too much for you or maybe it doesn't work with your style.  Try using wicker baskets for storage and decor. We love the look of this wicker plate/basket 'gallery wall' it really softens up the modern streamlined look in this space and it gives the whole space such a unique style and up against the white washed brick wall it is a great contrast.



4. More than just seating.  Rattan is used in many pieces of furniture not just chairs, look at using a rattan 'trunk' as a coffee table or maybe a toy box.







 5. Streamline. Be sure to use items that have clean lines and feel free to add some great pops of colour and pattern but use indoor fabrics so the whole piece looks and feels like it belongs inside. We also love this image because of the wicker basket by the fireplace.



6. Colour.  Don't love the natural look of rattan but love the texture? Paint it!!  It is so easy to do.  be sure to do it outdoors and choose any spray paint colour you like!  It's a great way to customize your furniture on a budget.  Go as big and bold as you like



 
7. Tight on space? Try stacking low wicker ottomans for coffee tables, end tables and maybe even some spare seating.  These are so versatile and we love them!



8.  Bedroom. Wicker and rattan have a great way of making the bedroom cozy.  We love it as a textured headboard.  It looks amazing against a bold accent wall and the tone and texture add so much warmth to the space.  It is a great addition to a coastal or beach inspired room.



9. Lighting.  Rattan and wicker  light shades look great either as table lamps, floor lamps or pendants.  The texture is so organic and sculptural.  It works with so many styles of decor.



10. Alternative, sisal.  Sisal and rattan/wicker have similar tones and textures. If you are looking to add this natural texture and tone to your space but not finding furniture pieces you like or don't want to buy new furniture pieces a sisal rug on the floor.  A classic casual area rug gives any space a casual look and works with most styles of decor.