How Do I Choose the Best Rattan Chair?

Rattan is a type of palm that can be used to make all types of furniture, from chairs to tables and hassocks. Choosing a rattan chair starts with determining what style of chair you want: rattan can be used to make dining room chairs, outdoor patio chairs, living room chairs, and so on. Think about what kind of chair you need, and then determine how much space you have to spare in the room for that rattan chair. This will narrow down your search by eliminating chairs that are too large for a particular space.

Once you have made your size determinations, consider what style and color of rattan chair you want. Rattan can be finished much like wood, which means the colors or shades that the chair can come in will vary significantly. Take a good look around the room in which the chair is to be placed; your rattan chair should either match the furniture in the room or complement it. If, for example, your current furniture is dark in hue, choose a darker shade of rattan, or a shade of rattan chair that will fit with the overall color scheme of the room.

So many rattan chair designs exist that it may be difficult to choose the one that's right for you. If you are choosing patio furniture, make sure the rattan is treated with some sort of chemical or treatment that will protect it from weather exposure, and then consider the design; the best design is entirely up to you, but make sure whatever design you choose is stable and sturdy enough for regular use. Dining room chairs might benefit from a wood frame and legs for stability and durability. This will make the chairs easier to move in and out as well.

If possible, test out each design for comfort. The chair itself may not be the most comfortable chair without a cushion, so think about adding an accent cushion to the chair for added comfort. These are usually fairly inexpensive and they can add comfort and aesthetic appeal quickly and easily. The overall design of the chair should be eye-catching, but it should also be comfortable; if you sit in an attractive chair that does not allow you to sit in a natural position, avoid this model unless you intend to use the chair as a showpiece only. Some chairs come with foot stools or hassocks; if you choose a chair that includes another piece, be sure that hassock or foot stool is stable, attractive, and light weight for easy movement.