Trend Alert: Cane, a classic that never dies!

Practical, lightweight and organic, this classic detailing is not new, but it sure made an impact this year in residential design. Offering an airy feeling, along with its eco-friendly properties, cane has been popping up everywhere. Traditionally, cane was used for chairs and chair backs, but has expanded into sleek armchairs, media consoles, beds, and even lighting. What we find interesting about cane furniture is that its design style has become versatile within different design trends, such as traditional, modern, farmhouse or boho.

What is Cane?

Cane is a durable and flexible material that comes from the outer skin of a rattan stalk, a climbing palm plant native to Asia and Africa. The caning process starts by removing the bark from the core of the plant, which is then processed into thin strands, creating the cane material used for furniture and other items.

What is the difference between Cane, Rattan and Wicker

Cane and Rattan come from the same rattan plant to create the material used in furniture that you see in the market. However, the two different materials are processed through different parts of the plant. Cane is traditionally woven into web patterns and applied to furniture, rattan is weaved to create furniture pieces.  Wicker on the other hand is the weaving process not the material itself.  A piece of wicker furniture can be made out of not only rattan, but other materials such as bamboo and synthetics. The below images illustrate the difference between a rattan and cane chair.

Furniture

As mentions previously cane was widely recognized for its use on chairs. It has come in and out of trend, but has always been around. Most recently the natural aesthetic has brought it back to popularity, and brought it back in a new way. Brands are introducing a wider range of furniture pieces using cane material, such as the ones below.

Lighting

This natural fiber has also made its way into the home through lighting. People have been obsessing over basket lighting. These basket shades bring a more natural feel into your home by adding rich textures and patterns. We are starting to see more light fixtures using the traditional cane webbing.

Accessories

Why not introduce cane into accessories! The Tri-Fold Mirror below is particularly one of my favorites. It is a cute piece to add to a bedroom. More and more household decor pieces are popping up, and they are a great way to incorporate the materiel into your design without having to commit to a larger furniture piece.

What are your thoughts on cane? Are you totally onboard with this trend or do you think its not worth the dust and cleaning? Share your thoughts on this trend by commenting below.