We're at that point of the calendar where we bring our focus to design trends beyond our four walls, and like every year in recent memory, one trend has made a reappearance. Wicker furniture has long shaped how we decorate both our interior and exterior spaces, and experts have already predicted that 2024 will be no different, so who should we look to for styling inspiration?
While we admit there's no shortage of wicker styling ideas out there, singer Leona Lewis has shared one of our favorite twists on the ever-popular garden trend. In her yard, Lewis exhibits two white wicker seats that, despite their simplicity, are eternally stylish. Lewis's space is by no means compact, but the simplicity and versatility of her pieces mean we can replicate her look in even the smallest of exteriors.
'For small gardens, a single statement chair is all you need to create a relaxing spot. Wicker is a huge trend for spring/summer 2024 thanks to its versatility and timeless style, and it complements most outdoor spaces,' comments Dobbies' head of buying Lynsey Abbott. 'It's a great investment piece that will last for years to come and is wonderful for small gardens and city balconies.'
With its good looks and functionality combined, it's unsurprising that wicker pieces have established themselves as staples in the American decorating industry. This sturdy but stylish weave is used to create both indoor and outdoor furniture for millennia – in fact, it's said to be the oldest furniture making method in history, at least 5,000 years old. However, it keeps coming back stronger every year.
'Rattan is one of those rare natural materials you can feel really good about. The harvest of rattan supports the livelihoods of millions of people living in several tropical nations,' adds Georgia Metcalfe, the founder and creative director at French Bedroom. 'This furniture is natural, sturdy, and also steeped in tradition – the process of hand-weaving rattan furniture embodies a time-honored tradition, and its story spans continents, artists, and craftsmen.'
Additionally, we can owe much of its recent success to its sustainable qualities. More than ever, we're keen to invest in pieces that aren't damaging to the planet, but wicker's eco-friendly roots and longevity mean it's a safe buy.
'In a world that is rapidly (and rightfully) seeking more sustainable choices, rattan stands out as a beacon of hope. It is not just an eco-friendly option, but its beauty and durability make it an obvious choice for discerning interior enthusiasts,' Metcalfe says.
'In addition to this, rattan’s tensile strength rivals that of steel, meaning that well-crafted rattan furniture will last for decades.'
