When it comes to choosing the perfect rattan garden furniture for your outdoor space, one of the biggest decisions you'll make is choosing between natural rattan and synthetic rattan garden furniture. While both offer their own aesthetic appeal and charm, not all rattan is created equal, especially when it comes to standing up to the unpredictability of British weather.
At White Stores, we specialise in stylish, durable, and weather-resistant outdoor furniture, which is why we believe that synthetic rattan is the clear winner for UK gardens. But let’s explore both options and why one stands out as the smarter choice for year-round outdoor living.
"At White Stores, we continue to lead the way in rattan outdoor furniture by offering both modern innovation and timeless style."
- White Stores
Natural Rattan: Beautiful but Vulnerable
Natural rattan is made from the fibres of climbing palms, which are native to tropical regions. It has a warm, organic aesthetic and was commonly used for furniture back in the Victorian times, then made a comeback in the 60s and 70s because of its bohemian-style and traditional look.
However, for outdoor furniture use in the UK, natural rattan presents several challenges. The origin of natural rattan makes it susceptible to moisture. Natural rattan absorbs water, which can lead to swelling, cracking, or mildew, especially in damp UK climates. Not good for longevity! Without consistent maintenance and somewhere dry to store when not in use, natural rattan weaves can become brittle or decay.
To keep natural rattan garden furniture looking good, it needs to be treated, covered, and regularly cleaned. Not ideal for those of us who don’t have as much free time.
However, if you’re set on a traditional look, natural rattan is a charming option for indoor conservatories or covered patios - but for true outdoor use, it simply isn’t built for the elements.
Synthetic Rattan: Engineered for the Elements
Synthetic rattan, also known as PE rattan (polyethene) or resin rattan, is designed specifically to mimic the look of natural rattan while offering superior durability and weather resistance. It’s typically made from high-density polyethene (HDPE) and handwoven over rust-resistant frames.
These man-made materials mean that synthetic rattan can handle rain, frost, and sun without fading, cracking, or weakening (everything you need in UK garden furniture).
PE rattan is much easier to look after than natural rattan, a simple brush down or wipe with a damp cloth keeps your furniture looking like new.
The rattan aesthetic has been around for a long time, signs that this style of garden furniture will not be disappearing for a while. Therefore, it is important that it is designed for long-term outdoor use and stays stylish and functional through the seasons and the years.
As we move towards a greener and more sustainable world, it’s great to see that many modern PE rattan varieties are fully recyclable and free from harmful chemicals.
In our opinion, these facts make synthetic rattan furniture the best choice for British gardens, balconies, and patios, where one day can be sunny and the next, soaking wet.
Meet Our New & Revamped Rattan Collections for 2025
At White Stores, we continue to lead the way in rattan outdoor furniture by offering both modern innovation and timeless style. We’re excited to introduce several new PE rattan collections and revamped customer favourites - all crafted with premium materials, including durable PE synthetic rattan, powder-coated aluminium, and olefin fabrics.
The Caleb collection combines metal and rattan for a contemporary, hybrid look. Ideal for patios, this rattan garden furniture collection features aluminium frames, rising tables, and olefin cushions, making it both weather-resistant and versatile. Whether you’re entertaining or lounging, Caleb’s adaptable design fits your garden and your lifestyle.
A blend of eucalyptus wood and white/brown rattan, the Hailey collection offers a rustic yet refined aesthetic. The light rattan and Acorn-toned wood create a beautiful contrast, perfect for suburban or country gardens. With laminate-coated wood and beige linen cushions, it's a warm and welcoming addition to any space.
Perfect for those who love classic charm, the Talia collection brings a soft, rounded design and whitewash grey, handwoven rattan to your garden. Pair it with matching accessories for a unified, elegant look. Weatherproof and family-sized, Talia is made for long summer lunches and casual garden parties.
For those with smaller spaces, the Emily collection features compact yet stylish options for patios and balconies. The curved design and PE synthetic rattan wrapped around aluminium frames make this rattan dining set a durable choice with a feminine touch.
We’ve revamped some customer favourites, including the Isabella and Olivia collections. The Isabella range brings luxurious comfort with soft, rounded edges and sand-toned cylindrical rattan, while the Olivia range is perfect for compact balconies through to larger patios, offering dining in a sophisticated woven design.
Why Choose White Stores for your Rattan Garden Furniture?
With a strong focus on durability, design, and low-maintenance care, White Stores’ synthetic rattan furniture is built for the ever-changing British climate. Whether you're after a spacious rattan corner sofa, a compact bistro set, or a full rattan dining set for entertaining guests, we have something for every garden, and every aesthetic.
So, are you ready to welcome rattan to your garden? Choose synthetic rattan and choose White Stores. Explore our full collection of rattan garden furniture today and find the perfect set to suit your garden’s style and your family’s needs.
