REAL ESTATE WEEKLY • Wednesday, March 25, 2020 • Page RE5
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WICKER, RATTAN back in style By Melissa Erickson More Content Now
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hat goes around comes around. Wicker and rattan are in style again to add a laid-back vibe to your decor, in a updated and sophisticated way. This long-lasting, natural medium keeps dipping back into fashion. Introduced to the United States in the mid- to late 1800s, wicker and rattan popped up again during the arts and crafts movement in the early 20th century. Most recently their popularity surged with the kitchy ’60s style, and never really left among those trying to capture the feel of island or resort-style living. “Nowadays, design-savvy consumers are placing less importance on specific periods or styles of furniture and more emphasis on materiality. As we move to more plant-based products, much like in the food space, the same holds true in the design arena,” said designer Mark Brunetz, spokesman for Design For A Difference, a community-based design movement that makes over spaces at local charities in the United States and Canada. “Derived from plants, the resurgence of wicker and rattan furnishings reflects a increased consumer awareness and desire to connect to nature,” said Brunetz, author of “Take the U Out of Clutter.” As humans we possess an innate tendency to connect to living things, Brunetz said. “In addition, the making of wicker and rattan furniture also stems from the art of basket weaving, one of many ancient art forms having a moment in the design world,” he said. “As consumers strive for authenticity and artisan-quality goods, it’s only appropriate that these materials are having a moment. Everything old is new again.” Traditionally found in outdoor settings and adapted to interior spaces, lightweight wicker instantly connotes a feeling of
relaxation and vacation, said interior designer Joan Kaufman of Interior Planning & Design in Naperville, Illinois. “The natural material adds texture and life to spaces exuding charm, triggering pleasant thoughts of comfort and ease,” she said. To add this timeless classic to your interior design, Kaufman suggests starting small. “We love using wicker accent pieces such as a nightstand, console or accent chair that add character to a space. Depending on the space, one piece can be just the right touch to add a wow factor to the total design,” she said. For a show-stopping effect, go all out with a full dining set, which works well when combined with other materials such as a stone top or upholstered cushions, Kaufman said. Beautiful and versatile, wicker plays well with different design styles and can be an eye-catching addition to any room. “Virtually any piece can be found in wicker or rattan, from bedroom sets to mirrors to sofas, chairs, tables and dining sets and accent pieces,” Kaufman said. When shopping for pieces, consider that as with all furnishings there are varying levels of quality and design style. “Selecting pieces that suit your budget and taste from reputable manufacturers typically yields high satisfaction,” Kaufman said. Wicker and rattan are not the same. Wicker is a style of woven fibers while rattan is a vine-like material. While the product may be natural, the process of weaving can be labor intensive. “Learn about the source of the piece and where it is made. Learning about the manufacturer’s fabrication process prior to making a major purchase is beneficial,” Kaufman said.