It might seem like bamboo is trending in the design world as minimal and natural styles become more popular. But bamboo has been used in design for hundreds of years, and for good reason. Bamboo is one of the strongest natural materials out there and the smooth natural rods are easy to process into a variety of eco-friendly items.
I like switching to bamboo because of the environmental impact, but there are many benefits to bringing natural design into your home.
Incorporating Bamboo Into Your Home
Some of the top design trends for 2022 include:
- Curved furniture
- Sustainable solutions
- Warm wood tones
- Natural touches
What comes to mind when you think of these? Probably bamboo!
Bamboo is used in sustainable interior design because it’s super durable and long-lasting. It’s also better for the planet than many alternatives. When you choose things for your home, you likely want them to be low maintenance and never go out of style. Natural materials like bamboo are easy to care for and timeless. They’re also thought to create a feeling of calm. What more could you want from your home?
Where to Include Bamboo in Your Home
According to Houze, 46% of US homeowners are planning to redecorate in 2022. This trend has continued for the past 5 years. If you’re planning to do some redecorating, start in the areas you spend the most time – like your bedroom, living room, home office, and kitchen.
- In shared living spaces, bamboo decor can balance out the TVs and computers often found in living rooms and offices. Bamboo also compliments almost any interior design style so it’s easy to incorporate no matter your taste.
- Adding bamboo decor to your bedroom can create a restful retreat. Nature will improve your mental health and some bamboo products even help improve air quality. For a deeper dive, see our research into bamboo and air quality.
- Your kitchen is likely filled with heavy appliances (plus all the mail and random clutter that ends up there). Bamboo decor can help soften the space and bring the same benefits as spending time outside.
Bamboo Design Elements to Add Function and Style
Adding elements of natural design is easy to do with a few bamboo products. Look for products that complement your other decor and serve more than one purpose. Here’s a quick look at how I like to bring the beauty of bamboo into my space in a minimal and functional way.
Bamboo Room Divider
Instead of using bulky furniture (or hanging a sheet as you did in your childhood shared bedroom), try a bamboo room divider to define your space. Whether you need a little division from your roommate while working from home or want to conceal a play space in your open-concept living room, a bamboo room divider serves as an intentional decor without creating clutter.
The Alexisa bamboo/rattan folding room divider doubles as art with a beautiful woven texture. It has four foldable panels so it can easily be used in smaller spaces or shifted out of the way for parties. At almost six feet tall it will give you all the privacy you need.
Bamboo Bookshelf
If you’re a bookworm like me, you likely have a favorite reading spot in your home. Take the cozy factor up a notch by adding a bamboo bookshelf. The light, natural look of bamboo furniture keeps your room from feeling too heavy and balances out plush couches with a smooth sleek finish.
Add the Colbe Bamboo Shelving Unit next to your bed to hold a stack of your favorite novels for your late-night read-a-thons. The minimal design and spacious shelves are perfect anywhere in your home. Display family photos in your living room or stay completely organized in your home office.
Bamboo Desk
You’ve likely heard that time in nature can improve your mood. But what about when you can’t get outside? Try bringing nature in! In fact, 49% of homeowners believe having natural materials in their homes makes them feel happier. If you need to boost your mood during the workday, a bamboo desk will do the trick.
Our friend Mike has the Fully Bamboo Jarvis Standing Desk and has used it every day since 2018. Tip: go with the contoured desktop; it's a total game-changer. Choose your top shape and size as well as your frame height and color. Customizing the size makes this the perfect desk for a minimal, yet functional office space.
Bamboo Coffee Table
Sustainability and functionality are top design desires for 2022 and bamboo furniture is one of the most impactful design features you can add to your space. While I’m all about oversized couches filled with super soft blankets, I also want to balance out my rooms with smooth textures and solid materials.
The natural wood tones of bamboo coffee tables go with any decor. I especially love the added storage found on the Seldak Bamboo Coffee Table. I can have a clear surface while keeping all my books, remotes, and snack stash close by.
Bamboo Tray
Did you know the average American household has over 300,000 items? I tend to choose a more minimal decorating style. When I’m adding something new to my home it’s important it serves a purpose or works double duty to create a comfortable and intentional living space. That’s why I rely on bamboo trays to contain and display all my items.
The LaGrange Tray from August Grove provides several design solutions. It can be used as a home base for things like books and remotes, help you carry cocktails to the patio, or act as a breakfast tray on a lazy Sunday morning in bed. The low profile and light weight make it an ideal centerpiece for your ottoman and easy to grab when needed.
Bamboo Cutting Board
If you’re not lucky enough to have bamboo countertops, a bamboo cutting