In picking out furnishings for the cottage bedroom, I've been on the lookout for items that will give it a year-round summery feel. One trend I've fallen head over heels for is caned furniture.

It isn't really a trend. Caned furniture has been around for hundreds of years but I feel there's been a real appreciation of this old world technique of late. Caning, the craft of taking the outer material of the rattan plant and applying it to furniture, results in airy and light pieces that are crisp and unfussy and work well in today's interiors.

This bench has a bit of a sophisticated meets rustic vibe, don't you think? The smooth caning suits the clean lines of this mid-century modern piece.