10 Unique Ways to Use Wicker in Your Home Design
With its centuries-old weaving technique and organic texture, wicker offers a delightful way to infuse warmth and character into the living spaces of your home. From coastal oases to boho-chic getaways to classic and inviting ambiences, wicker fits seamlessly into a variety of interior styles. In this Redfin article, we explore the versatility and appeal of wicker furniture, decorative accents, and even textured wallpaper that can breathe new life into your home. So whether you’re looking to rent in Indianapolis or buy a home in Charleston, discover the beauty of this age-old craft and learn how wicker can enhance the design of your home.
What Is Wicker and How to Apply It to Your Home:
Wicker is a versatile and time-honored material used to make furniture, baskets, and various decorative items. “Wicker furniture and accessories are made from natural materials such as rattan, bamboo, or reed. It brings an organic and earthy vibe to your living space, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere,” says Santa Barbara Interiors.
Making wicker requires interweaving these flexible materials into intricate patterns, often resulting in strong yet lightweight structures. Wicker dates back to ancient Egypt, and its popularity has endured for its durability and beauty.
“Wicker and rattan are popular choices for interior design because the materials are lightweight, durable, and add a natural texture to the home,” says HomeByMe. “Wicker and rattan can be used for everything from side chairs to coffee tables to stools, and even bed frames.”
CASS Design Co. notes, “Our best advice is to use wicker sparingly to elevate your space without making it feel dated. Consider accent items like lighting, side tables, side chairs, or benches, and even vases. When you add these pieces here and there, it adds an element of warmth and fun. If it’s overdone, like the whole outfit, it’s not as visually appealing.”
Here are 10 more ways to easily incorporate a wicker design into your home.
1.Wicker Planter:
Wicker planters are stylish and functional containers designed to hold and display plants, flowers, and herbs.
“Bring a touch of nature indoors by displaying your favorite houseplants in wicker planters. These planters can be placed on windowsills, shelves, or even hung from the ceiling for an eye-catching display. When combined with earthy tones, wicker and greenery create a soothing and welcoming ambiance in your home,” notes Wicker Guides.
2.Wicker Lighting:
Wicker lighting fixtures bring natural beauty and warm lighting to any living space. Whether pendant lamps, chandeliers, or table lamps, these fixtures cast beautiful patterns of light and shadow, infusing a room with a cozy and welcoming ambience.
“Wicker lighting is a great way to create ambiance,” notes Cottage Culture. “The natural fibers of the lamp soften and warm the space, while the soft cascading light falling from the chandelier really sets the mood. Don’t have room for a chandelier? Try a wicker floor lamp to spice up your space.”
3.Wicker Headboard:
A wicker headboard adds rustic charm to bedroom decor, providing texture and warmth to the overall ambiance. Often made from materials such as rattan or willow, their woven designs offer a light and airy feel while still serving as a sturdy and supportive backdrop for the bed.
Bree Kotwitz of Wicker Basket says, “Add a touch of bohemian glam to your bedroom by incorporating a wicker headboard. The natural grain of wicker adds a cozy and inviting feel to the room, especially when paired with soft bedding and mid-calf. When combined with neutral tones, it creates a haven of tranquility and style.”
4.Wicker Coffee Table:
Wicker coffee tables are eye-catching pieces of furniture. “An easy way to add wicker to your home is through coffee table trays. Add a lovely book and plants, and you’ve got a beautiful vignette,” says NB Design Group.
5.Wicker Boxes:
Wicker boxes come in a variety of sizes, from small decorative pieces to larger storage containers, making them suitable for use in bedrooms, living rooms, or even outdoor spaces.
Kim Turner, principal designer at Kim Turner Design and senior director of Dwell with Dignity, notes, “A wicker box at the foot of a bed is a great storage solution for extra bedding. In a guest room, it provides a convenient, Extra blankets can be stored for those who get chilly at night. It also allows you to add extra pillows of varying firmness, giving guests a personalized and comfortable sleep experience.”
6.Wicker Chair:
The rattan chair is a classic seating choice that combines comfort, style, and natural elegance. The rattan chair has a lightweight and durable structure, making it suitable for both indoor and outdoor use.
“Place a wicker chair in the living room with plush cushions to create a cozy reading nook,” suggests Zen Candles Design. “Choose neutral colors like cream, beige, or pastel shades for an overall look that’s both serene and sophisticated.”
7.Wicker Panels and Wallpaper:
Wicker panels and wallpapers are innovative and stylish ways to incorporate the natural charm of wicker into interior design without using the actual woven material.
“Cover an accent wall with woven wicker panels or textured wicker wallpaper to make a great first impression,” says Lori of Our Remodeled Home. “Wrap some old books in wicker wallpaper and put them on a shelf, and place some plants in wicker baskets. This will add texture and interest to your arrangement. Cover traditional painted stair risers with wicker board or wallpaper, adding a unique and unexpected twist to your staircase.”
8.Wicker Baskets:
Wicker baskets come in many sizes, shapes, and designs. “They’re the perfect solution for storing items around the house while presenting an attractive decorative element. Store blankets, toys, and more in any room while hiding them in a decorative wicker basket,” notes Lauren Tieru of Paige & Rye.
9.Outdoor Wicker Furniture:
Wicker outdoor furniture comes in many forms, including chairs, sofas, dining sets, loungers, and more, to meet different seating and entertaining needs. Its timeless and versatile design allows it to blend seamlessly with a variety of outdoor settings, from garden patios and balconies to poolside areas and porches.
“Wicker is a great choice for outdoor furniture,” notes Tara Rydl of Mom Can Make Anything. “I love having a wicker sofa and wicker swivel chair in my outdoor living space. It’s hard-wearing and durable as long as I cover it in the winter.”
10.Indoor Wicker Furniture:
Wicker interior furniture brings an inviting and natural touch to interior spaces, infusing them with warmth and texture. Due to its lightweight and versatility, wicker furniture can be easily moved to suit various arrangements and decorating styles. Wicker chairs and sofas are often paired with cushions and upholstery for enhanced comfort and a personal touch.
“When most people think of using wicker or rattan, they think of coastal design or outdoor design, but like wood, wicker can warm any interior space and add some needed texture so the space doesn’t feel cold,” explains ReAbode. “Don’t be afraid to mix wicker or rattan furniture with other contemporary furniture indoors, especially with cool blue and green color schemes. A chair or coffee table can add some much-needed warmth and texture.”
