The variety of furniture and home accessories in today's market is truly mind-boggling. Furniture is made out of materials as diverse as wood, leather, plastic, foam and metal; for accessories, the list is much, much bigger.

Apart from the options mentioned above, there is rattan. Rattan is a material that has been around for a long time, and is slowly making its way into homes, offices and public spaces. It comes from a palm that grows in Asia and Australia, whose stem - both the bark and inner parts - can be used to make furniture.

As a material, rattan is supple yet somewhat flexible - something well known to people who have felt the sharp bite of the rattan cane! Thankfully, the suppleness and flexibility have been put to better uses in the furniture and basket-making industry.

Rattan can be split into threads that are woven to form a tough, resistant material. Its resistance to splintering and its high tensile strength contribute to making it a favored material for tasks that involve rounded, bent shapes yet require strong end products.

Traditionally, baskets are made out of woven bark or similar materials. These baskets can be used to hold fruit on the dining table, makeup and accessories on the dressing table, or to package gift items in a way that is both attractive and environment-friendly.

Rattan baskets with earthen pots placed inside them are also used as planters in urban apartments, where space is always at a premium. A rattan basket can also serve as an alternative to a plastic laundry hamper, especially if it is varnished and made water-resistant.

The distinctive woven texture of rattan has become extremely popular in the homes of plant-lovers, especially when the natural color of the material is preserved. Rattan is so very flexible that innumerable designs can be made from it - from low centre-tables and low easy chairs to tall, slim vases and even abstract models.

For people seeking vibrant colors while retaining the characteristic slim weave, rattan's affinity to paint and varnish is a godsend. With "green living" coming into fashion as of recent times, this biodegradable yet durable and cost-effective material has seen sales spiral upward in the past decade and half.

Rattan can also be combined with wood or other materials to yield an interesting hybrid look. This is a popular combination in sofa sets, patio chairs, and dining sets. Rattan furniture can also be subtly contoured to offer superior back support, whether one is seated upright or leaning back and relaxing.

Designers have been aware of the possibilities of rattan for a long time indeed. The same weather-resistant qualities that have made it popular for centuries among Asian and Australian tribes are now making it a favorite for garden and outdoor furniture in European and American households. If you want to stay with the latest trends and save yourself pot-loads of money in one step, opt for as much rattan as you can when you redecorate. The muted, earthy colors are bound to soothe your soul as soon as you enter your home.

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Browse rattan basket and rattan living set. Click here to view more articles by Gen Wright.