As the years go by, some materials fade in and out of trends, while others remain timeless. Rattan falls into the latter category.
For evidence, look no further than the following archival image of Helen Mirren’s London living room from 1969. Though the rabbit-ear television and rotary television are clearly from another time, the rattan decor in the corner is pulled straight from our 2025 Pinterest Boards.
Popular since the 1970s, rattan furniture like Mirren’s is made from natural, plant-based materials that add instant coziness and warmth to any space where it is used.
Helen Mirren in her London living room 1969
(Image credit: Neil Libbert via Getty Images)
As seen in Mirren’s home, it’s a staple for building textured, welcoming interiors. The team at Artemest explains: ‘From sun-drenched terraces to cozy living rooms, rattan and wicker bring timeless elegance, warmth, and versatility to any space.
Shop the Rattan Trend
If you love Mirren’s living room, it’s easy to tap into the look using both large and smaller pieces. Here is a round-up of a few of my favorite rattan furnishings, inspired directly by the actress’s timeless style.
An almost identical match to Helen Mirren’s armchair, this piece offers the ultimate opportunity to follow her lead. Handcrafted from natural materials, it showcases a beautiful rounded back, curving arms, and is comfortable enough to sit in all evening long.
Following the rattan trend doesn’t have to involve a large furniture investment. This scalloped, footed pot has a perfect mix of round and curved details, and it’s the perfect solution for homes where space is at a premium.
Kelly Clarkson gave us another way to tap into the trend in a bitesize way. This piece looks perfect on a coffee table, but we also recommend introducing it to your countertop (where you can organize spices and sauces, among other essentials).
Furthermore, an increased interest in 70s interior design trends, as consumers look to build more textured and characterful spaces, has led to a spike in rattan furniture as one of the most popular materials of 2025.
Nicola Shaw, Senior Head of Buying for Homeware, at Urban Outfitters elaborates, stating: ‘We love to see the rattan furniture trend going into 2025. With indoor/outdoor style staying key, rattan continues to be a timeless investment that can fit effortlessly into every space, no matter the size.
Part of what has returned rattan to popularity over 50 years after its peak, is its versatility. It can fit into a variety of design styles from farmhouse chic to modern to maximalist, priming it to be a burgeoning interior design trend for any home.
‘The beauty of rattan is its raw material makes it easy for you to match it to your vibe,’ says Nicola.
Though rattan is often used for both indoor and outdoor furniture, experts advise that keeping it covered, as seen in Helen Mirren’s living room, can help extend its life.
The team at Artemest recommends: ‘Ideal for interiors and sheltered outdoor areas, these artisanal pieces are best enjoyed in spaces protected from the elements, where their beauty can endure.’
Rattan has a timeless beauty that few materials can replicate. From Mirren’s 70s living room to now, it looks just as stylish.
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