When you design a luxury resort or a themed restaurant, you want the decor to give your customers a special moment. Perhaps it’s a meticulously woven canopy of natural fibers that catches the light, creating subtle patterns that dance across the space. This is the visual power of lauhala matting – or as we at amaZulu call it, the Cabana Mat.
From the hushed corridors of five-star hotels to the vibrant energy of themed restaurants, designers and architects are rediscovering this versatile material that bridges the gap between traditional craftsmanship and contemporary design. In this guide, we’ll talk about what this material is, and how do you use it for maximum impact.
What Is Lauhala Matting (Also Known as the Cabana Mat)?
Lauhala matting is a time-honored woven material crafted from natural leaves in the Philippines, prized for its versatility in both traditional and contemporary interior design applications. While it’s traditionally associated with tropical and tiki aesthetics, this adaptable material has evolved into a sophisticated design element that can transform any ceiling or wall space, whether in a modern office environment or a themed resort setting.
Popular Applications for Lauhala Matting
Lauhala matting is not suited for outdoor applications, but it can work wonders in interiors.
Ceiling Applications
When it comes to ceiling installations, lauhala matting excels in creating immersive environments that transform ordinary spaces into extraordinary experiences. The material’s natural texture and warm tones can instantly elevate the ambiance of any room, making it particularly effective in:
- Resort common areas and guest rooms
- Restaurant dining spaces
- Corporate office environments
- High-end residential projects
The ceiling application represents lauhala matting at its finest, offering maximum visual impact while minimizing wear concerns.
Wall Applications
While wall installations require more strategic planning, they can create stunning visual effects when properly executed. Tristan Ishtar, vice president of sales at amaZulu, says designers will need to be careful to ensure that lauhala matting is placed in an area that won’t come in contact with a lot of people.
“It is just woven leaves,” Tristan says. “If people are leaning and rubbing against it, it will crack, but if you use it on the wall behind the bar, it’ll be fine. People have also used it as an accent stripe on a wall.”
Optimal wall placement includes:
- In non-publicly accessible areas, like behind bars
- Decorative accent stripes
- Feature walls in low-traffic areas
- Elevated wall sections
Design Versatility of Lauhala Matting
One of the most compelling aspects of lauhala matting is its remarkable adaptability to different design aesthetics. While many associate it exclusively with tropical themes, forward-thinking designers are discovering its potential in contemporary applications.
Traditional Tropical & Tiki Settings
In traditional tropical designs, lauhala matting serves as a cornerstone element, providing:
- Authentic tropical atmosphere
- Natural texture and visual warmth
- Complementary surfacing for bamboo and other natural elements
- Enhanced thematic cohesion
Contemporary & Modern Spaces
While it’s most commonly associated with tropical or tiki-themed environments, it can be used in contemporary and modern spaces as well, Tristan says.
“It doesn’t have to go with bamboo in a tiki setting,” he says. “There are situations where you can have a contemporary modern looking space — whether it’s an office or a living room or dining room — and you can use this matting as an organic element.”
This versatility makes lauhala matting particularly valuable for:
- Modern office environments seeking biophilic design elements
- Contemporary restaurants aiming to soften industrial aesthetics
- Upscale residences combining natural and modern elements
- Corporate spaces working to create more inviting atmospheres
Installation Guidelines
Professional installation of lauhala matting enhances both its aesthetic appeal and longevity. While the material itself is adaptable to various installation methods, proper preparation and execution are crucial for optimal results.
Key Installation Considerations:
- Surface Preparation: Ensure walls and ceilings are clean, dry, and properly sealed
- Climate Acclimation: Allow materials to adjust to installation environment for 24-48 hours
- Professional Tools: Basic installation requires minimal specialized equipment
- Installation Methods: Choose between contact adhesive or mechanical fastening based on application
Care and Maintenance of Lauhala Matting
To protect your investment in lauhala matting, implementing proper maintenance protocols is essential. Commercial environments particularly benefit from a proactive approach to care:
Regular Maintenance:
- Gentle dusting with soft brushes
- Periodic inspection for moisture exposure
- Climate control monitoring
- Immediate attention to any damaged areas
Long-term Care:
- Annual deep cleaning assessment
- Humidity level monitoring
- UV exposure management
- Periodic professional inspection
Transform Your Space with High-Quality Lauhala Matting
The journey from concept to completion in commercial and residential design requires materials that not only capture the desired aesthetic but also deliver on durability and ease of installation. amaZulu’s premium lauhala matting — also known as Cabana Mat — answers this need with unmatched versatility and quality.
Available in rich honey and tan or sophisticated dark brown and mocha color options, these 4′ x 8′ panels offer exceptional coverage and design flexibility. Whether you’re envisioning a tropical paradise or a contemporary sanctuary, amaZulu’s lauhala matting adapts to your vision. The material’s natural flexibility allows for both flat and curved surface applications, making it ideal for:
- Feature walls and ceiling treatments
- Curved architectural elements
- Accent wall stripes and patterns
- Complete room transformations
- Balinese-inspired ceiling designs
Ready to elevate your next design project? amaZulu’s expert team understands the unique demands of commercial and residential installations. Contact us today to explore our premium lauhala matting options and discover how we can help bring your vision to life with our comprehensive selection of sustainable, high-quality theming materials.
