As we move deeper into the darkness and cold of the winter season, we feel more need than at other times of the year to ensure the interiors in our homes are warm and inviting.
Furniture, carpets and accessories made of rattan or other natural materials are the perfect antidote to the cold. Although they are usually associated with summer, they can be easily adapted to winter. Rattan, from the Malay word “rotan,” is the name ascribed to about 600 species of climbing palms with flexible woody stems.
Some of my favorite rattan products come from IKEA, so they are not only priced right, but are cool as well. Such as the SINNERLIG pendant lamp for example. Made of bamboo, this pendant light adds warmth to your eating area. Add two for maximum effect over a rectangular table.
Switch out your upholstered dining chairs with the NILSOVE chair with armrests. Made of hand-woven rattan and sturdy bamboo, these chairs are perfect for a laid-back vibe. Combine them with the NORNA chair pad or a SKOLD sheepskin cushion cover (use a faux fur rug if you prefer) for additional comfort or warmth.
An armchair in boucle fabric will also go a long way to warming up your living space as well as your behind. This soft and sumptuous fabric will make you feel like you’re sitting on a cloud. Here are three chairs with pricing from low to high to get you started: the OLIVIERI side chair, the AZALEA boucle chair and the PAVIA lounge chair.
OLIVIERI side chair 
AZALEA boucle chair 
PAVIA lounge chair
IKEA also has the BUSKBO and ULRIKSBERG armchairs that celebrate the beauty of rattan and sustainable design.
BUSKBO 
ULRIKSBERG
Put a LOHALS rug, made of flat-woven jute, in front or underneath to prevent getting cold feet (it’s available as a runner and full area rug).
For the final touches, I suggest creating a gallery wall of pastel hued pictures for warmth. Pastels not your thing? The black and white gallery wall is not only on trend but a way to support your local photographers. And don’t forget to add some naturally scented candles that will transport you to your favorite vacation destination or bring you memories of happy times. •
