About

Soane Britain invites designers, makers, and advocates of responsible craftsmanship to a talk exploring an urgent issue in contemporary furniture production: the ethical sourcing of rattan.

To illuminate this vital topic, we are lucky to be joined by Professor Bill Baker of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew — the world’s leading authority on palm species identification. Professor Baker’s research underpins global efforts to verify rattan species at source, a critical step in preventing misidentification, safeguarding biodiversity, and ensuring that manufacturers and consumers alike can trust the origins of the materials they use. He will be in conversation with Lulu Lytle, Soane’s Founder and author of ‘RATTAN: A World of Elegance and Charm’, as they discuss the importance of traceability in sustaining rattan weaving for future generations.

Rattan, a renewable climbing palm that grows predominantly in Southeast Asia, has long been central to Soane’s work, valued for its beauty, versatility, and deep connection to traditional craft. Yet behind this remarkable material lies a global supply chain that demands greater transparency, scientific rigour, and environmental responsibility. Due to the number of rural and smallholder farms involved in harvesting, processing and selling rattan, it is difficult to trace the origins of this material, and an industry-wide certification system has yet to be introduced. As the industry grows, so does the need to ensure that all rattan is sourced ethically, traced accurately, and harvested in ways that protect both ecosystems and communities.

This paid talk offers a rare opportunity to hear directly from one of the scientists shaping the future of ethical rattan trade. Attendees will gain insight into the challenges facing the industry, the scientific tools transforming supply‑chain transparency, and the role that designers and manufacturers can play in driving meaningful change. Proceeds will support Kew’s Palm House project.