Jan-Wout Hulstein, associated with furniture factory Asiades and the label Rey7, reacts with dismay to the recent episode of the VPRO programme Keuringsdienst van Waarde, which questioned the environmental friendliness of rattan furniture. "It is really unfortunate that this is portrayed in such a negative way, as it is a beautiful material that grows at lightning speed. Moreover, it is processed by the manufacturers we know with respect for both nature and people." Last week, we published this article about it, to which Hulstein responded with surprise. 
Jan-Wout Hulstein of Asiades showed the new Indonesia collection of Rey7, the label he runs with his daughter Nikki, on his stand at Maison&Objet
The TV show suggests that the production of rattan furniture is not as sustainable as manufacturers claim, pointing to the rapid felling of rattan and its treatment with diesel oil and toxic gases. Hulstein, with 35 years of experience in Indonesia and an in-depth knowledge of rattan, strongly disputes these claims. He explains that rattan is a fast-growing palm species that does not require treatment with harmful substances. And stresses that, unlike bamboo, rattan is solid and not hollow, making it less susceptible to insects. "Traditional processing of rattan is done by steaming with water in special tubes, which then allows the material to be bent by hand into the desired shape. After cooling, it retains its shape without the need for machinery or harmful chemicals," Hulstein said.
Water-based paints
He further clarifies that the thinner material, known as pit cane, is soaked in water and then braided manually, ensuring a completely environmentally friendly process. In the production of the Rey7 collection, a line of beautiful rattan furniture, Hulstein stresses that water-based lacquers are used. This shows that finishing rattan furniture can also be done with respect for nature. "This is a conscious choice in our production," says Hulstein, "and although we can only speak for ourselves, we are convinced that other manufacturers in the furniture industry can also use sustainable methods."
Hulstein regrets that the Keuringsdienst van Waarde paints a negative picture of rattan furniture. He stresses that rattan is a beautiful material that grows at lightning speed and is processed with respect for both nature and people by the manufacturers he knows.
More information:
Asiades HK
19F / Printing House
6 Duddell Street Central
Hong Kong
+85 298 37 86 00
[email protected]
www.asiades.com
Arocca
Avenue of Aries 10
7324 BV Apeldoorn
+31 (0) 88 88 168 88
[email protected]
www.arocca.com
Rey7
www.rey7.com