Why Rattan Outdoor Furniture is a Popular Choice

After a long winter indoors, there’s nothing quite like the feeling of stepping outside into your garden again, with a cup of tea ready to enjoy the brighter days ahead. Whether you’re a homeowner preparing for a summer of barbecues and garden parties, or you manage a hotel, pub, or holiday let gearing up for the season, one thing’s for sure: outdoor spaces deserve just as much attention as indoor ones. And when it comes to furnishing them, rattan outdoor furniture remains one of the most popular and reliable choices.

Having worked with countless customers over the years here at BE Furniture Sales, I can confidently say that rattan is stylish, practical, and built to last.

Why Rattan Outdoor Furniture is a Popular Choice - BE Furniture Sales

What Exactly is Rattan Furniture?

First, a bit of clarity. Rattan refers to the natural vine-like palm used for centuries to make woven furniture. On the other hand, Wicker describes the weaving technique—so when you hear “wicker furniture”, it might be made from rattan, willow, bamboo, or even modern synthetics.

These days, especially in the unpredictable British climate, synthetic rattan (also known as resin or plastic rattan) is the go-to for outdoor use. It mimics the natural look and texture beautifully, but with the added benefit of weather resistance, durability, and very little upkeep.

A Stylish Staple for Outdoor Living

Rattan outdoor furniture has a timeless quality. Its woven texture is inviting and relaxed, immediately setting the mood for lounging, dining, or simply enjoying a quiet afternoon in the garden.

It effortlessly works with a wide range of décor styles—from rustic cottage gardens to sleek, modern patios. We love how it pairs with natural elements like wood decking, gravel pathways, and lush greenery. Add a few scatter cushions and a cosy throw, and you’ve got a welcoming space you’ll want to spend time in.

Built to Withstand British Weather

Let’s be honest—the British weather can be unpredictable at best. So many customers choose synthetic rattan furniture for their outdoor areas. It’s designed to handle everything from blazing sunshine, sudden showers, and even the occasional frosty morning.

Plastic rattan looks great year-round, unlike natural rattan, which can fade, warp, or develop mould when exposed to the elements. UV-resistant and waterproof, it won’t crack, unravel, or become brittle over time. And if it does get a bit mucky? A quick wash with warm, soapy water and a soft cloth is all it needs.

An Eco-Conscious Perspective

We’re all thinking more carefully about our environmental impact, and rightly so. While natural rattan is biodegradable, it’s worth knowing that its harvesting, when not done sustainably, can have adverse effects on tropical ecosystems. On the flip side, when properly maintained, high-quality synthetic rattan can last for over a decade, reducing the need for regular replacement and waste.

We always encourage customers to choose well-made, durable furniture designed to last. Durable rattan furniture is a smart, long-term choice that balances convenience with conscientiousness.

Versatility in Every Setting

One of the reasons I keep recommending rattan is its sheer versatility. Whether you’re furnishing a hotel terrace, a quaint B&B courtyard, or your back garden, rattan adapts beautifully. It’s at home on a stylish urban balcony on a country deck.

A trend I’ve enjoyed is the rise of black rattan garden furniture. It brings a chic, contemporary edge to any outdoor space and is a striking contrast to natural surroundings. At BE Furniture Sales, our black rattan collection has been flying out the door—it’s elegant, easy to coordinate with cushions and parasols, and always makes a statement.

Excellent Value for Money

Outdoor furniture is an investment, but that doesn’t mean it has to break the bank. One of the great things about rattan—especially synthetic rattan—is that it offers excellent value for money. It’s durable, long-lasting, and won’t require constant maintenance or replacement.

You can buy individual pieces to gradually build your set or opt for a complete outdoor lounge or dining set. Compared to metal or hardwood options, rattan offers a brilliant balance between style, comfort, and affordability.

Low Maintenance, High Reward

Let’s face it—we don’t want to spend our summer weekends sanding or oiling outdoor furniture. Rattan furniture is wonderfully low-maintenance. No treating, painting, or protecting from rust. Just wipe it down occasionally, and you’re good to go.

That’s why it’s such a popular choice for businesses, too. From beer gardens to beachfront cafés, rattan furniture holds up well under frequent use and looks smart with minimal fuss.

Trendy Yet Timeless Designs

While rattan furniture has been around for generations, today’s designs are anything but old-fashioned. From modular sofa sets and glass-topped dining tables to hanging egg chairs and bar stools, a style suits every need and space.

We’ve noticed more customers mixing and matching rattan with other materials, such as aluminium frames, tempered glass, and even fire pits, for a fresh, contemporary look. If you’re after inspiration, our latest collections are packed with stylish, practical ideas to elevate your outdoor setup.

Why We Recommend Rattan

If you’re looking for durable, commercial outdoor furniture that suits the British climate, rattan is hard to beat. It’s a classic choice for good reason: It looks great, feels inviting, and won’t let you down when the weather turns.

Whether refreshing your garden seating or furnishing an entire outdoor venue, BE Furniture Sales has a wide selection of rattan options. And if you’re after a touch of modern sophistication, I’d suggest checking out our popular black rattan garden furniture range.

Are you ready to upgrade your outdoor space? We’re here to help you get summer-ready with furniture that looks good and lasts.