A rattan tray might just be the most hardworking styling piece in your kitchen. It corrals clutter, adds warmth, and makes even the most everyday items, a bottle of olive oil, a salt cellar, a small plant, look intentional and beautiful. If you haven't discovered the magic of a rattan tray yet, this guide is for you.
Why Rattan Trays Are a Kitchen Essential
Rattan is a naturally grown palm that's harvested sustainably, making it one of the most eco-friendly materials you can bring into your home. It's lightweight, strong, and has a natural warmth that instantly makes a space feel more lived-in and welcoming.
In the kitchen specifically, a rattan tray serves multiple purposes:
- Organisation: Group oils, vinegars, and condiments on the counter so they're easy to grab and easy to tidy away.
- Styling: Create a curated "vignette" on your kitchen island or dining table.
- Serving: Use it to carry drinks and snacks from the kitchen to the living room or outdoor space.
- Protection: Place it under plants or candles to protect your countertops.
5 Ways to Style a Rattan Tray in Your Kitchen
1. The Condiment Station
Group your most-used cooking essentials — olive oil, sea salt, pepper, and a small herb pot — on a rattan tray near the stove. It keeps things tidy and looks like something out of a food magazine.
2. The Coffee Corner
Style your coffee maker, a small jar of beans, a favourite mug, and a tiny succulent on a tray. Instant morning ritual upgrade. Our Self Stirring Bamboo Mug looks gorgeous as part of this setup.
3. The Centrepiece Moment
On a dining table or kitchen island, layer a rattan tray with a candle, a small ceramic vase with fresh stems, and a linen napkin. Our Scandinavian Ceramic Vase was practically made for this.
4. The Bar Cart Alternative
Don't have room for a full bar cart? A large rattan tray on the counter works beautifully. Arrange a couple of glasses, a small carafe, and a coaster set. Browse our Barware collection for pieces that complement the look perfectly.
5. The Outdoor Entertainer
Rattan trays are perfect for outdoor dining too. Use one to carry everything you need from kitchen to patio in one trip, then leave it on the table as a stylish centrepiece. Pair it with pieces from our Outdoor collection.
Our Favourite Rattan Trays
We've curated a selection of rattan trays to suit every kitchen style:
- The Emerald Rattan Tray Set — a set of nesting trays in a rich, earthy green tone. Perfect for layering and incredibly versatile.
- The Slate Wicker Rattan Tray — a cooler, more contemporary take on the classic rattan tray. Pairs beautifully with modern kitchens.
- The Wicker Rattan Tray — the classic. Natural, warm, and endlessly stylish.
Caring for Your Rattan Tray
Rattan is naturally durable, but a few simple habits will keep it looking beautiful for years:
- Wipe spills immediately with a slightly damp cloth — don't let liquids soak in.
- Avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, which can cause fading and brittleness over time.
- Dust regularly with a dry cloth or soft brush to keep the weave clean.
- Store in a dry place — excessive humidity can cause warping.
Start Styling
A rattan tray is one of those rare home pieces that's both beautiful and genuinely useful. Once you have one, you'll wonder how you ever managed without it.
Explore our full range of kitchen decor and storage and organisation pieces to find everything you need to create a kitchen you love spending time in.