Strolling through a conservatory, you’ll likely spot plenty of woven wicker chairs, sofas and tables. Wicker has been the go-to furniture material in conservatories for generations. But why exactly is it such a staple choice? Here’s an overview of what makes wicker so well-suited for conservatory spaces:
- The Lightweight Design
- Wicker furniture is extremely lightweight thanks to the woven construction. This makes pieces easy to move and rearrange.
- Light furniture prevents damage to conservatory floors, which may have underfloor heating.
- The airy, slender frames suit the light and spacious conservatory aesthetic.
- Durability
- Natural wicker is very strong and durable. It stands up well to daily use and lasts for years.
- Synthetic wicker materials like resin wickers are weatherproof and resistant to cracking and peeling.
- Low-Maintenance Material
- Natural wicker needs minimal maintenance beyond occasional dusting. It can be scrubbed or hosed down.
- Synthetic wickers clean up easily with just soap and water. No special treatments are needed.
- Lets Air Flow Through
- The woven structure allows air, light and moisture to pass through, preventing furniture from trapping heat.
- This breathability makes wicker comfortable for long periods of sitting.
- Provides Good Support
- Wicker is surprisingly supportive thanks to its tight weave. The curvature moulds to the body’s shape.
- Comfortable cushioning can be added to wicker chairs and sofas for extra softness.
- Matches Conservatory Architecture
- Visually, wicker suits the arched doors, windows and ceilings often found in conservatories.
- The thin, organic lines complement the conservatory’s connection to the outdoors.
- Light filtering through wicker evokes the shadowy patterns of a pergola or garden trellis.
- Colour and Texture Variety
- Wicker furniture comes in a wide spectrum of colours to match your chosen scheme.
- Natural wicker offers earthy textures while synthetic types have a smooth finish.
- From traditional brown to bold rainbow hues, there’s a wicker to fit any décor.
- Affordable Option
- Basic wicker furniture is relatively affordable, making it accessible for most budgets.
- More elaborate handcrafted wicker can also be found at higher price points.
- Easy to Clean and Maintain
- Wicker resists dirt, spills and stains so requires little maintenance.
- Use a vacuum attachment to remove dust from crevices.
- Wipe woven surfaces using just mild soap and water.
- For deep cleaning, use steam or diluted vinegar to kill mould and bacteria.
- Replace damaged strands by unweaving and reweaving.
Potential Drawbacks to Consider:
- Wicker is prone to fading, especially in direct sunlight. Use protective coatings. Consider reducing direct sunlight with a Leka replacement conservatory roof.
- It can potentially dry out and become brittle over time. Apply conditioners annually.
- Natural fibres may be prone to mould in excessively damp rooms. Ensure good ventilation.
- Synthetic wicker can potentially become too hot in strong sunlight.
- Not as padded or plushly upholstered as some traditional sofas and armchairs.
The breezy, informal aesthetic of wicker suits conservatory spaces perfectly. With proper care, wicker furniture can serve your conservatory stylishly for many years. But don’t rule out other materials like wood or rattan if you prefer a different look. Find the right furniture to make your conservatory uniquely you.
