Spotted: A Cane Comeback
Warm and natural cane furniture and accessories lend a laid-back feel inside and out
Popular in the 1980s, cane furniture, along with rattan and wicker, is back in style in a big way. This warm and natural comeback kid exudes a relaxed and tropical vibe. Even better, many cane pieces are available for a steal at secondhand stores.
Wondering how cane differs from rattan and wicker? Cane refers to thin strips of rattan bark. Rattan is a tropical vining plant; its jointed stems produce some of the strongest wood available. Wicker is a generic term for a woven material made of natural (cane, rattan, reed, bamboo) or synthetic fibers.
Here are some ways you can introduce the vintage look of cane into your place.
Wondering how cane differs from rattan and wicker? Cane refers to thin strips of rattan bark. Rattan is a tropical vining plant; its jointed stems produce some of the strongest wood available. Wicker is a generic term for a woven material made of natural (cane, rattan, reed, bamboo) or synthetic fibers.
Here are some ways you can introduce the vintage look of cane into your place.
Pull up a chair. Armchairs are the mainstay of the cane trend. When paired with blue cushions, as in this beach house in Brisbane, Australia, they epitomize coastal style.
They’re also perfect around the dinner table.
Cane chairs add a little French bistro polish to this residence.
You can consider using them at the bar counter too.
Go white. For a more modern take, try white cane. Chairs with nautical blue-and-white cushions bring a breezy feel to another Australian deck.
Browse cane, rattan and wicker chairs
Browse cane, rattan and wicker chairs
Bring it inside. A retro cane couch, macramé plant hangers and a sea grass floor covering give this living space a beachy atmosphere.
Put it poolside. Woven furniture is also perfect by the pool, though you will need to take more care with a natural fiber than its synthetic counterpart. These beautiful Balou armchairs are available in different compositions for indoor and outdoor wear for just this reason. The indoor version is abaca and rattan, while the outdoor version is polyethylene.
Should you choose natural or synthetic furniture? While natural cane and rattan furniture is popular for its durability, lightness and natural beauty, it doesn’t do well in extreme heat or in wet or very humid areas, where mold and mildew can cause a problem. Synthetic products can be left out in all weather conditions.
Should you choose natural or synthetic furniture? While natural cane and rattan furniture is popular for its durability, lightness and natural beauty, it doesn’t do well in extreme heat or in wet or very humid areas, where mold and mildew can cause a problem. Synthetic products can be left out in all weather conditions.
Add a table to your outdoor setting and it’s time to truly relax.
Keep it quaint. This vintage set is a perfect match for the traditional balcony it inhabits. Terra-cotta planters and pastel pillows complete this look.
Vintage cane armchairs, along with a decorative horse, add interest to this study.
Go black. For something a little different, try black cane. A luxurious sheepskin throw softens this chair.
Or double the appeal with a pair of chairs.
Accessorize with it. Cane, rattan and wicker needn’t be restricted to chairs. These sculptural lamps from Darcy Clarke bring drama to a living space.
And in this airy bedroom, a light shade complements the armchair and side table.
Go big. To make a real statement, invest in a gorgeous peacock chair, as seen in this Brazilian home.
Provide contrast. Cane isn’t just for the tropics. If you prefer an eclectic look to the beachy vibe, try something different and mix a white cane headboard with luxurious pillows and a moody black feature wall.
See What You Can Do With a Black Feature Wall
Your turn: How have you used cane, rattan or wicker furniture or accessories in your home? Share a photo in the Comments.
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See What You Can Do With a Black Feature Wall
Your turn: How have you used cane, rattan or wicker furniture or accessories in your home? Share a photo in the Comments.
More
Picking an Accent Chair: What’s Your Design Personality?
Find furniture for every room in the Shop section