Since we bought a home by the beach in Florida I’ve grown increasingly interested in bamboo pieces, it must be the influence of the location. Bamboo is a sustainable source for furniture and flooring because it is a renewable material that grows rapidly. After it’s harvested it can also be manufactured into cloth or lumber. Left it its natural state it can be bent to form unique furniture pieces from the slender knotted hollow stems. Bamboo is different from rattan in that it grows vertically with hard stems, whereas rattan is a palm like bendable reed that can be woven.
With its wood tone finish, unique sculptural rings, and laid back vibe, what’s not to love? The key to decorating in an elegant way with natural bamboo is to not overdo it, instead use bamboo as an accent or focal point and no where else. I’ve seen way too many tropical vacation condos that decorate with bamboo furniture floor to ceiling and it’s just too much. Overdoing it takes away from the uniqueness of the pieces which defeats the purpose of using it in the first place.
Bamboo is associated with chinoiserie style and also used on repeat in homes in a Palm Beach aesthetic or coastal design. These examples below prove how impactful a singular piece of bamboo furniture can be.
kara miller interiors
dk home
society social
via decorpad
tyler and tate
jacquelyn clark
society social
calini coastal
tommy bahama
homes to love
kara miller interiors
source unknown
lisa sherry
Authentic bamboo is pricier than faux but there are many options available with a simple internet search. Vintage pieces are also prized from sources on eBay, 1st Dibs, or Chairish. These statement pieces will catch the eye in any space.
writing desk / console table / bamboo bench
etagere / four drawer chest / folding chairs