Rattan is often treated as decoration. UNFORMALDESIGN treats it as architecture. In Thailand, rattan has deep craft roots and a climate logic: it can filter light, breathe, and create soft boundaries.
The System Logic: 5 Rules
Repeatable Frame First
A stable frame makes craft scalable.
Weave Density Controls Atmosphere
Denser weave = more privacy and shadow. Open weave = more air and visibility.
Colour and Pattern Shift Within a Controlled Language
Variation is allowed—but it must stay coherent.
Low-tech Assembly + Repairability
Design for: easy replacement of panels, access to fixings, long-term maintenance.
Climate-aware Use
Use rattan for: screening, shading, soft zoning. Not as a fragile object in high-impact zones.
Material System Inquiry
• Want a modular material system (pallet / PVC crate / barrel / bottle / rattan)?
FAQ
Q: What is the one thing that makes a hospitality interior memorable?
A: A clear feeling, expressed through light, material, and movement.
Q: How do you design for Thailand conditions?
A: Durable materials, refined touchpoints, ventilation/maintenance access, and lighting that works at low lux.
Q: What do you need to quote a project?
A: Location, approximate area, venue type, scope, timeline, and constraints.