Having been supplanted by rattan for many decades, wicker is making a strong comeback.
Although often confused, these two fibres are in fact very different. Of tropical origin (85% from Indonesia), rattan bends very easily when steamed, but this flexibility means the manufacturer has to add extra reinforcements, arches and frames, which can make the product heavier. Wicker, a plant from temperate climates (it is simply willow harvested in fine strands, which grows throughout Europe), is significantly stiffer. The curves will be less pronounced than with rattan, but for the same strength, less material is required. The product is lighter, both physically and visually; some armchairs are even constructed without a frame, simply woven like a basket, whilst remaining very sturdy. From an environmental perspective, there are two benefits: less material for the same function, and shorter transport distances. Labour costs in Asia, which have long been a hindrance to wicker, are rising structurally (and this is a good thing for everyone) as living standards improve, not to mention the current supply difficulties which, at the time of writing, are driving up the price of containers from Asia.
Wicker therefore has a lot going for it and is sure to win back the public’s favour in no time.
KOK MAISON, whose history dates back over a century, is simply reconnecting with its past. Back when we were still known as ‘La Vannerie Hollandaise’ in the 1930s (telephone number 183), our catalogues featured the heading ‘Rattan and Wicker Armchairs’. This return to our roots is now driven by a fundamental trend towards reshoring and environmental considerations. Wicker is a fast-growing plant (with a cycle of just one year) that is very hardy and grows throughout Europe: Central Europe, Spain, France (Haute-Marne and Indre-et-Loir), Belgium, the Baltic States, Germany... It requires no finishing treatment, although it is quite often found in a “white lacquered” form; it is processed (harvesting, stripping, weaving) using very simple tools, but a great deal of elbow grease. There are many jobs right on our doorstep, just waiting to be revived.
Eco-friendly and locally sourced, wicker also lends itself to very light and airy structures, particularly the famous ‘openwork’ weaving technique. This interlacing, which uses a minimal number of wicker strands, holds its shape without the need for a frame. This pattern, typical of period seating, strikes us as eminently contemporary and will blend harmoniously into our modern interiors.
At KOK MAISON, willow is reimagined in a lacquered finish in on-trend colours to offer a more contemporary, bold and creative approach to interior design. Thanks to modern and elegant finishes, traditional wicker sheds its classic image to become a true design statement, capable of bringing character and a touch of originality to any space. Our coloured wicker collections appeal to lovers of refined interiors, interior designers and creative minds seeking handcrafted furniture with a modern twist. This approach brings willow back into fashion whilst preserving the authenticity of the craftsmanship and the charm of natural materials, for a stylish, warm and resolutely unique interior.
English 
Français
