Rattan - A Staple of Tradition and Sustainability at Avana Retreat
Explore the sustainability of rattan and its incorporation into the spirit of Avana Retreat
From the lush tropical forests to the intricate hand-made patterns, rattan tells tales of an age-old Vietnamese craft. The timeless charm of rattan has captivated Avana Retreat, and its remarkable sustainability has completely won us over.
Why is rattan sustainable?
Rattan meets all the criteria to be a sustainable material: renewability, minimal environmental impact, efficiency, social responsibility, and durability. First, let's mention the rapid growth of rattan. After being cut down at the base, rattan will regrow like grass, and after about 2-3 years, farmers will have a new harvest season.
Rattan trays are used in the meals of ethnic people
The harvesting of rattan also does not involve cutting machines since it requires meticulousness and selectivity of the hands, where only mature stems are harvested. Processing the raw materials and making the final products are also mainly done by hand.
The making of rattan ceilings by local artisans
In rural areas near the forests, the people mainly live off natural products, including rattan. Using rattan products helps support the local community and encourages the preservation of this traditional craft.
Speaking of durability, rattan can easily rival plastic, and above all, it is biodegradable.
The traditional craft of rattan weaving in Vietnam
Vietnamese people, with their dexterity and creativity, have long used rattan to make everyday items such as baskets, handbags, mats, and chairs. Nowadays, as economic development increases aesthetic demands, rattan is increasingly applied in a diversity of furniture and interior decoration thanks to its outstanding features. Besides being durable, rattan is flexible, lightweight, and resistant to high humidity and temperatures.
Household items made from rattan of Hoa Binh’s ethnic groups at Avana’s Stilt House Museum
Today, there are hundreds of traditional rattan craft villages scattered throughout Vietnam, including Hoa Binh, which boasts abundant natural rattan resources. In Hoa Binh, the most notable is Bui Hamlet, Nhan Nghia Commune, Lac Son District, home to the Muong ethnic people. Being recognized as a provincial traditional craft village has helped their products become widely known, bringing about a stable life.
Thai basket at Avana’s Stilt House Museum
Rattan at Avana Retreat
Avana Retreat is fortunate to source rattan directly from Hoa Binh, crafted by the people of this land. Although it is a traditional product, rattan blends exceptionally well with luxurious and modern spaces. At Avana Retreat, the use of rattan is comprehensive; evident in lighting, wall panels, baskets, and some decorative items. Rattan not only brings rustic charm to Avana Retreat but also contributes to our pursuit of a plastic-free operation.
Rattan ceilings, wall panels, and hanging lamps at Green Chili Restaurant
Rattan dominates the interior of Senna Hilltop Pool Villa 2 Bedrooms
The relaxing and gentle atmosphere at the Welcome Center of Orchid Spa thanks to rattan
Tradition, nature, and wellness converge at the Treatment Room of Orchid Spa
To further appreciate the craftsmanship of rattan weaving, you can make a simple basket under the guidance of our veteran artisans. It will be a souvenir for you to keep memories of this enchanting Northwest region.
The rattan weaving workshop is held every Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday from 14:00 to 16:00 at the Stilt House Museum.
As time passes, somewhere in the villages, artisans tirelessly carry on the beautiful tradition of rattan weaving, and Avana Retreat feels honored to be part of that effort.