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Straw marquetry is a refined decorative technique that transforms thin, flattened, and polished straw, usually wheat or oat, into luxurious veneers. Artisans then apply these pieces to all kinds of artistic endeavors, such as furniture, art, and other forms of home decor. We have long loved the art of straw marquetry, so it is a delight to present this article. In it, we will take a deep dive into the rich artistry behind this time-honored craft, while also highlighting some of our favorite modern-day straw marquetry creators.

Straw Marquetry: An Art Rooted in History & Passion

While the art of marquetry dates back to ancient Mesopotamian times, straw marquetry in furniture and decor gained popularity in 17th-century Europe, with the craft likely first emerging even earlier in East Asia. By splitting, soaking, ironing, and sometimes dyeing the straw, artisans create ribbons of all colors and sizes to work with. The strips are then intricately assembled into a wide range of designs, which are sealed with varnish.

The art form flourished in Europe between the 17th and 19th centuries, practiced in convents, workshops, and even prisons. The technique waned after the craft moved out of style, but it resurged spectacularly during the Art Deco period, embraced by designers such as Jean-Michel Frank and André Groult. Their work incorporated straw finishes into sideboards, cabinets, boxes, and architectural panels. Collectors and design historians now hold these pieces in high regard.

Many designers fully embody this evolution today, including the renowned Lison de Caunes, granddaughter of designer André Groult. Lison is a native Parisian artisan who has worked to restore many of Jean-Michel and Andre’s original designs since she was young. Her personal connection to this craft has made her a source of inspiration for many, as she breathes new life into traditional Art Deco Motifs—reinterpreting them with bold color palettes, precision, and sensibility.

Alongside Lison, studios like Paelis in Paris are expanding their visual language of straw marquetry. Having collaborated with numerous designers and explored a variety of materials, they have established a strong reputation in the world of marquetry. One of their most recent designs, created in collaboration with renowned artist Richard Peduzzi, features a sculptural line of straw marquetry pieces for the modern home. 

The Enduring Sunburst & the Beauty of Geometry In Straw Marquetry

Straw’s natural linear form is perfect for creating geometric patterns. From squares and diamonds to the ever-popular sunburst motif, creators of straw marquetry come up with all sorts of fabulous ways to interpret and reinterpret geometric designs. Santiago Salgado, a New York designer, beautifully incorporates this and other timeless symbols of straw marquetry throughout his work.

The sun burst motif brings a unique perspective to decoration and furniture, but its purpose can differ from piece to piece. In many interior design-centered pieces—such as mirrors, wall panels, and lighting—the straw is used for creativity and play. All across the globe, artists are working to keep this tradition alive. Australian industrial designer Adam Goodrum and French marquetry artisan Arthur Seigneur of Adam&Arthur are another name working to elevate geometric motifs with straw. In particular, A&A likes to examine kaleidoscope effects as seen in a number of their works.

An Evolving Craft

As more artisans have come into the spotlight—all of whom love the material and its many possible forms—the angle of straw marquetry has evolved. Today, many designers of straw marquetry have transcended the flat surface and transitioned into designing sculptural, meaningful objects. At the forefront is French-Danish designer Jonathän Jouan, creating a more contemporary style of straw marquetry. His pieces are often minimal in shape but incredibly rich in surface texture, hinting at the historic practice while adding his own colorful twist. Jonathan lets the straw speak for itself, using light, repetition, and color to display complexity and craftsmanship. 

Another designer bringing beauty to the art of marquetry today is Jallu Ebenistes. Jallu is an artisan of sculptural marquetry, including straw and other gorgeous materials!, always finding potential to play with lighting and structure to create elevated pieces of furniture, lighting, and decor. Adding a unique dimension to this list is Branka Dulic, a Serbian straw artist from Subotica. Since 1999, Dulic has adapted some of the oldest straw traditions and turned them into sculptural and wearable pieces. Her designs are exceptionally personal and intimate works of art for her clients.

Straw As Decorative Art

In its many forms, straw has become a vessel for ornamentation in the modern home. From wall panels and decorative boxes to sculptural accents, this natural material is now synonymous with refined elegance. Designers like Agnes Paul-DePasse use straw to explore rhythm, texture, and light, crafting pieces that elevate even the smallest corner of any home. Similarly, Designer Delphine Robins brings a playful, classy edge to her work, showcasing intricate patterns and familiar motifs—including iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower– each rendered with her distinct artisanal touch. 

A Recent Straw Marquetry Rendition

In the summer of 2025, KOKET expanded its use of straw marquetry with the introduction of eight new furniture and lighting designs. Embodying all things glamorous and artisanal, the collection pays tribute to the craft. The designs combine straw marquetry with other precious materials KOKET loves, including polished brass, gold leaf, lacquer, and wood veneer, bringing modern yet timeless elegance.

Wrapping Up the Art of Straw Marquetry

The timeless art of straw marquetry is undoubtedly one of the most intricate and elegant finishes in the design world. Every piece is meticulously handcrafted, reaching a level of precision that renders each creation as singular and unique. Generations of artisans have handed down this design technique, inspiring designers and paving the way for brands today to reinterpret the craft in innovative ways. The incorporation of straw marquetry feels like honoring tradition while embracing the possibilities of modern life. It is this harmony of tradition and reinvention that makes straw marquetry so captivating, and a space for possibility and a renewed way of seeing.

Words by Daisy Simpson | Copy Edits by Anna Bimba

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