A short guide to rattan, cane and seagrass

They are often mixed up, but each natural material has its own look, feel and way of ageing.

Rattan is a climbing palm with solid, flexible stems. It is bent into frames for chairs, mirrors and tables, and it deepens to a warm honey colour over the years.

Cane is the outer skin of the rattan stem, cut into thin strips and woven into the fine mesh you see on chair seats and cabinet doors. It is light, airy and quietly elegant.

Seagrass is a tough grass twisted into thick cords and woven into baskets, trunks and rugs. It has a chunkier, more rustic texture, and it is naturally hard-wearing, which makes it ideal for everyday storage.

Olivia Andrews, The Chestnut Studio