The Difference Between Boho & Rattan Mirrors

One of the more iconic designs to come out of the 20th century is, of course, the Boho and Rattan mirror. Both designs are fantastic examples of what can be achieved by adhering to the tenants of the modernist technique to create a brilliant effect, making these works especially suited for just about any room in the home!

But while we use these terms fairly liberally in the designer mirror world, we have to ask the question; just what is the difference between Boho and Rattan? Both mirrors are round, and both make the most of mid-century design principles. So, what is the actual difference between the two, and how can we make a clear differentiation between the two styles?

In today’s blog, we will explore this idea and see the difference between these two iconic designs.

Rattan-ouie

To figure out the difference between Boho and Rattan, we first have to speak about Rattan mirrors.

Much like other designs of the 20th century, the Rattan emerged out of the same modernist and post-modernist art movements that defined the 60s and 70s.

Rattan, or Boho Rattan, is a style of mirror design that focuses on natural and renewable materials to create the mirror’s frame. Most commonly, these designs are based around circular or oval shapes but can deviate to arched mirrors and even square and rectangle shapes.

This emphasis on natural materials is vital, as Rattan style design is principally considered somewhat minimalist in approach and eschews anything that could cover up the natural colors and textures of the materials used.

Boho-ld Your Horses

So, with an emphasis on materials and natural textures, just what is it about a Boho mirror that differentiates from a simple Rattan? Well, the answer is easy - it’s about simplicity.

Rattan mirrors are primarily concerned about materials, whereas Boho is concerned with presentation. Thus, while a simple Rattan mirror might choose to configure its framing device in a simple pattern, a Boho mirror will usually feature a complex array of cuts and arrangements to break up the simple shapes as much as possible.

As a result of this desire for greater complexity in appearance, Boho mirrors are far more focused around circular shapes, as other forms would create a cluttered visual.

So, while a Rattan may be well suited to casually fitting in a space without creating too much of a fuss in the process, a Boho is more concerned with grabbing attention from onlookers.

And that is it! You now know the best, simple way of telling the difference between a Boho and Rattan mirror and how each style can be used in your home.

If you would like some more help choosing the perfect mirror for your home, don't be afraid to give our team at West Mirrors a call. Our friendly group of experts would be more than happy to provide some advice and recommendations!