Prized for its flexibility and durability, rattan has been used for centuries in areas such as South East Asia and Africa. Hugely popular during the Victorian era, rattan and wicker furniture became the go-to choice for garden designers and has become synonymous with the sophisticated country house style. Here, we’ll explain the benefits of synthetic rattan furniture and why it’s a great choice for your garden.
Natural versus synthetic rattan
Formed by weaving together the stems of a fast-growing tropical climbing plant, rattan is lightweight and versatile and is used as a roofing material, for making baskets and for constructing furniture. Whilst natural rattan is fine for outdoor use in hotter climates, it performs significantly less well in our harsher weather conditions, and this is why synthetic rattan, which looks just as good and is completely weatherproof, is a much better choice here in the UK. Designs range from the more traditional to the sharply modern, and rattan chairs, tables and sofas can look equally at home in a cottage garden or an urban courtyard.
Benefits of synthetic rattan
Synthetic rattan garden furniture is extremely easy to clean and is fully waterproof. It withstands frost, mould, sun lotion, chlorine and sea water, and will look pristine no matter what you throw on it. Being so lightweight is a great advantage too, as you can easily move your furniture around to accommodate more guests, chase the sun or to simply change your garden layout.
Built on a robust, rust proof aluminium frame, you’ll find synthetic rattan garden furniture is extremely comfortable and lasts for years, making it a great addition to your outdoor space.
