Rattan Lighting Buying Guide – How to Choose the Right Piece

Rattan lighting has become a staple in modern Australian homes thanks to its warm glow, organic texture and relaxed aesthetic. Whether you’re styling a dining room, bedroom or open-plan living area, the right rattan light can instantly transform a space.

This guide breaks down everything you need to know — size, shape, weave, tone and placement — so you can confidently choose the perfect woven light for your home.

—

1. Choose the right size for your room

Size is one of the most important factors when selecting rattan lighting.

A pendant that’s too small can feel lost, while one that’s too large may overwhelm the room.

General sizing suggestions:

• **Small rooms:** 25–35 cm pendants
• **Medium rooms:** 35–50 cm pendants
• **Large rooms / open-plan spaces:** 60 cm+ statement pendants

For dining tables, a pendant should typically be **half to two-thirds the width of the table**.

—

2. Pick a shape that suits your style and space

Rattan pendants come in many silhouettes, each offering a different mood and level of softness.

Popular shapes in Australian homes:

• **Dome-shaped** — warm, diffused light; perfect for dining rooms
• **Flat wide shades** — ideal for kitchen islands
• **Bell-shaped** — clean, modern lines
• **Organic sculptural shapes** — statement pieces for large spaces
• **Basket-weave forms** — relaxed coastal feel

Choose a shape that suits the scale and mood of your space, not just what looks good online.

—

3. Understand rattan tones and finishes

Rattan varies naturally in its colour.

The tone you choose affects the room’s warmth and overall style.

Tone guide:

• **Light blonde rattan** → Japandi, minimalist, bright spaces
• **Warm honey or caramel** → coastal, boho Australian homes
• **Darker toasted tones** → rich interiors with deeper timber finishes

In naturally bright Australian homes, light rattan often creates the softest, most calming effect.

—

4. Consider the weave style and lighting effect

Different weaves create different shadow patterns and lighting moods.

Weave types:

• **Tight weave** — soft, even glow; minimal shadow play
• **Open weave** — decorative shadows; great for ambience
• **Layered or cross-weave** — adds visual depth and texture

If you enjoy soft, calming spaces, choose a tight weave.

If you want atmosphere and movement, go for an open weave.

—

5. Choose the right bulb temperature

Light temperature has a major impact on how rattan feels in your space.

• **Warm white (2700–3000K)** → calm, cosy, best for evenings
• **Neutral white (3500–4000K)** → kitchens, work zones
• **Avoid cool white (5000K+)** → too harsh for woven natural materials

Warm white almost always pairs best with rattan’s organic texture.

—

6. Placement matters

Best places for rattan lighting:

• **Dining rooms:** one central pendant
• **Kitchen islands:** two or three smaller pendants
• **Bedrooms:** soft bedside lamps or gentle overhead pendants
• **Entryways:** medium pendant to create a welcoming feel
• **Living rooms:** sculptural rattan statement piece

Placement should enhance the room’s flow and create a natural focal point.

—

7. Check the craftsmanship and quality

Well-made rattan lighting should have:

• Even, consistent weaving
• Smooth finishing
• No sharp edges
• A stable frame
• Natural, not overly glossy coatings

Handcrafted lighting often lasts decades and ages beautifully over time.

—

Conclusion

Choosing the right rattan light is about balancing size, shape, weave, tone and placement.

With the right piece, rattan lighting adds warmth, softness and a natural elegance that suits almost every style of Australian home — from coastal to Japandi to warm minimalist.

Whether you’re styling a full room or refreshing a small corner, rattan lighting brings gentle ambience and timeless charm into everyday living.