Few design trends have the same longevity as rattan, a retro favorite that continues to impress designers and celebrities alike. The latter is the case with tennis star Serena Williams, who shows that you don't need to invest in a large piece of furniture to buy into the look.
Williams shared her appreciation for this furniture staple in a short video on her Instagram filmed in (what appears to be) her entryway. In the backdrop, we caught sight of her stylish rattan planter – and while it may seem like a seemingly small accessory, it has a big impact. In the space leading from her entryway, Williams has placed the planter, holding a lively green fern, for a tropical aesthetic that complements the rustic material. The warmth of the rattan also ties seamlessly with the rustic wooden bench positioned below a statement art piece.
Rattan furnishings are a great way to add some interest to your look, bringing a retro feel whilst adding a natural element to the room. Planters are the perfect way to introduce rattan into your home, as their bohemian look pairs perfectly with the touch of nature brought by an indoor plant.
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Think classic rattan design with a sculptured twist. This scalloped, footed pot has a perfect mix of round and curved details. It'll make the first impression you want from your entryway (but look just as beautiful in any room).
Simple and classic, this boxy-shaped basket has handles for easy lifting. It's the perfect home for a small, indoor olive tree – for a hint of escapist sunshine, whatever the season.
The only thing more engaging than a rattan planter is one that uses mixed-wicker for a stylish finish. This piece looks much more expensive than its price tag, especially when paired with your favorite house plant.
Ashlie Adam, the principal interior designer at Park Luxury Design, shared her thoughts on the impact rattan can have on a space, as well as some pointers on how to integrate the material into your home.
She describes rattan as more than just a design choice, saying: ‘It’s a quiet rebellion against the disposable. Serena Williams’ rattan piece doesn’t simply hold a plant; it adds warmth and texture while giving the space – and the people in it – a bit of breathing room. Its woven, imperfect texture brings a sense of honesty that plastic or over-polished materials can’t replicate.’
Adam continues, ‘Rattan has this unique ability to soften a space while letting the elements around it shine, a material with history but without an ego. Serena’s planter captures this perfectly – an understated accessory that commands attention through its placement and purpose.’
When it comes to introducing rattan into your space, she emphasizes the appeal of smaller design pieces, such as this: ‘It's best to start small with accessories when beginning to incorporate rattan into your home. A planter, a mirror frame, a basket. These pieces are unassuming but can still completely transform the atmosphere of your space. It's also important to remember that Rattan doesn’t demand perfection in your styling – it thrives in imperfection.’
As shown by Serena Williams, adding a touch of rattan to your home through any accessory is a great way to refresh and breathe new life into a space – effortlessly creating a bohemian and retro style all at once.
