Conservatories are now a popular addition to many UK homes, offering an affordable way of adding space and light to a house. They make ideal dining rooms, play rooms or rest rooms and as glazing technologies improve they are no longer too cold in the winter and too hot in the summer. If your conservatory is used regularly it may be time to re-invest in some new furniture.

Cane, otherwise known as rattan, is still a firm favourite for this particular room. Traditional cane furniture had been seen as somewhat dated in recent years, but the market is now full of contemporary designs which not only use traditional rattan but also incorporate elements of leather, wood, steel and even resin. If you had not considered cane furniture for your conservatory then perhaps now is the time to do so!

Cane offers the user a number of benefits. Importantly, it is an incredibly fast growing plant which can be found across South East Asia. Its rapid growth rate means it is sustainable and is generally harvested responsibly. Secondly, it is incredibly strong. When in its raw state the cane is heated by steam in order for it to be bent into a particular shape. When it cools the shape remains intact. This process cannot be achieved with wood.

Many of today's modern cane suites are made by weaving thin strands of rattan over and around a wooden frame. The look is striking and can be varied. For instance, each strand of rattan can be painted in a different shade prior to weaving to give a very natural looking finish. Alternatively, the strands of rattan can be plaited before being secured to the frame.

Water hyacinth is emerging as a popular alternative to cane and also makes beautiful conservatory furniture. Many of the leading furniture retailers now offer water hyacinth sofas, chairs and dining chairs within their range. Like cane, water hyacinth can be woven and painted to produce a variety of looks.

If you are looking for something incredibly hard wearing in your conservatory then choose resin wicker. This is a great alternative to natural rattan and can even be used outside. This artificial wicker is hard wearing, fade proof and rot resistant, yet looks as elegant as the natural version. As its popularity increases so too does the colour choice, from bold blacks and chocolate browns, to white, cream and brown shades.

If you want to update your conservatory furniture but are constrained by your finances then consider purchasing new cushions to complement your existing furniture. There are a select number of UK based manufacturers able to offer a replacement cushion service for cane conservatory furniture and this really is a great way to refresh your furniture and change the look of the room. The best manufacturers will be able to offer a swatch service so you can choose your fabric in situ, comparing it to your wallpaper, paint shades, carpet and existing soft furnishings.