In South Carolina, our “winter” is often a gentle transition rather than a deep freeze. While the rest of the country is boarding up their patios, Lowcountry living allows us to keep that breezy, coastal aesthetic year-round—with a few cozy adjustments.
Wicker and rattan aren’t just for July; here is how to make these natural textures feel warm and sophisticated during the cooler months:
1. The Winter “Warm-Up”
The key to making rattan work in January is layering. Swap out crisp summer linens for heavier textures. Drape a chunky wool throw over a woven armchair or add shearling seat pads to your rattan dining chairs. The contrast between the cool, architectural lines of the weave and the soft warmth of the fabric creates a perfectly balanced “winter coastal” vibe.
2. Transitioning Indoors
If you have natural (non-synthetic) wicker, the drop in humidity during a South Carolina winter can actually be tough on the fibers. This is the perfect time to bring those statement pieces into your sunroom or living area. A rattan side table or a wicker peacock chair adds much-needed organic texture to an indoor space when the landscape outside has turned dormant.
3. Spotlight: Tommy Bahama Home
When it comes to mastering this look, Tommy Bahama Home is the gold standard. Their collections—like Island Estate or Ocean Breeze—utilize high-quality materials like leather-wrapped rattan and crushed bamboo that feel substantial enough for year-round use.
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Indoor Elegance: Their indoor rattan pieces feature rich, hand-rubbed finishes (think deep mahoganies and warm gingers) that feel incredibly cozy when paired with the amber glow of a fireplace.
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Winter Textures: Look for their pieces that mix woven textures with heavier materials like stone tops or dark wood. This grounded approach ensures your home feels like a refined resort, even when there’s a rare frost on the Palmettos.