MGLA x Rotan Jepara: The Human Touch of Indonesian Design
Image is courtesy of Rotan Jepara
MGLA: How did Rotan Jepara begin, and what inspired the brand’s journey?
Rotan Jepara: Rotan Jepara began from a deep admiration for the artistry of Jepara’s craftsmen — a town long celebrated as the heart of Indonesian furniture. We saw an opportunity to preserve this legacy while giving it a modern soul. Our journey started with one belief: that every piece of rattan tells a story of nature, hands, and heritage. We wanted to share that story with the world.
MGLA: What does working with rattan represent for you — is there a cultural or emotional meaning behind it?
Rotan Jepara: For us, rattan represents more than material — it’s a reflection of Indonesian life itself. It grows in our forests, it’s woven in our villages, and it connects generations through skill and patience. Working with rattan feels like continuing an ancestral conversation — one that honors nature, harmony, and human touch.
MGLA: How do Indonesian traditions shape your creative process and design identity?
Rotan Jepara: Our designs are inspired by traditional weaving patterns, local rituals, and the spirit of gotong royong — working together in unity. Every product carries a trace of Indonesia’s warmth and authenticity. We merge that cultural essence with contemporary forms, creating designs that are timeless yet globally relevant.
Antique Rattan Chairs New York Project Rotan Jepara
MGLA: How would you describe Rotan Jepara’s aesthetic?
Rotan Jepara: We describe our aesthetic as modern tropical elegance. It’s a fusion of clean lines, natural textures, and relaxed luxury. Whether it’s for a villa, resort, or home, our furniture invites people to feel close to nature without sacrificing comfort or sophistication.
MGLA: Do you have a signature piece that best reflects the brand’s spirit?
Rotan Jepara: Yes, our sun lounger with aluminum frame and handwoven synthetic rattan is one of our most recognized pieces. It captures the balance of durability, artistry, and comfort — qualities that define Rotan Jepara. It’s made to endure the outdoors, yet it carries a human warmth that no machine can replicate.
MGLA: What does it mean to see Indonesian design reaching homes around the world?
Rotan Jepara: It fills us with pride and humility. Each time our pieces find a place in homes, hotels, or resorts abroad, it’s as if a part of Indonesia travels with them. It proves that handcrafted beauty, born from patience and passion, speaks a universal language.
MGLA: Can you share what kind of partnerships or collaborations do you value most internationally?
Rotan Jepara: We value collaborations that respect craftsmanship and sustainability — partners who see beyond mass production and appreciate authenticity. Working with designers, hotels, and retailers who share our ethics helps us grow responsibly while keeping our roots strong.
MGLA: What role do your local artisans and communities play in the company’s story?
Rotan Jepara: Our artisans are the heart of Rotan Jepara. Without them, there is no story to tell. Many have inherited their skills from parents and grandparents. We work hand-in-hand with them, providing fair wages, training, and a sense of pride in seeing their work reach the global stage.
MGLA: If Rotan Jepara could send one message to the world, what would it be?
Rotan Jepara: We would say: “Cherish the human touch.” In every thread of rattan lies a story — of patience, love, and cultural continuity. By choosing handcrafted pieces, you’re not just buying furniture; you’re supporting lives, traditions, and a more sustainable world.
All images are a courtesy of Rotan Jepara
At MGLA, we believe that the most beautiful products carry the energy of the people who create them — and Rotan Jepara Indonesia is the perfect example.
Their brand reminds us that authenticity, family roots, and craftsmanship can still define the future of international fashion.
📲 Follow them online:
Instagram @cv.rotanjepara
Website www.rotanjepara.com
💌 Want to share your story with us? Write to info@mglainternational.com. We’d love to hear from you.