We love to bring the outdoors in. Natural elements — from botanicals to woods to earthy shades — lend a sense of calm to a space. And when they have a good story behind them, all the better.
Enter our Makaua Basket Collection, which is handmade from natural palm leaves. The tale of their creation is just as compelling as their appearance; they’re crafted by artisan families in Mexico, who use traditional hand-braiding techniques passed down through generations.
From Past to Present
The art of basketry in Mexico goes as far back as the pre-Hispanic period, pre-dating ceramics and the manipulation of fire. Originally baskets were purely functional; they were used as simple containers for gathering and storing foodstuffs. Today, they are of course appreciated for their decorative aspects, as well as their functionality.
Some 500 families have been involved with and positively impacted by Makaua baskets since they were first made in 2002. It started when Makaua’s founders stumbled upon a palm placemat in a Mexican market. They recognized it was a meaningful discovery and went searching for the people who made it. That was the start of what is now an ever-growing network of artisans devoted to weaving brighter futures for themselves and their families.
Makaua believes in creating beautiful handmade products for the home that represent a story and the person who made it. By adding the element of modern design, they strive to create contemporary pieces that represent and communicate this merging of tradition and timeless simplicity. The company and their pillars are a shining example of what we believe it means to Live In Unison – true connections, simple beauty, excellent quality and an emphasis on the future, making sure we leave behind a healthy planet for the next generations.
A Heartfelt Process
The word Makaua means “hand to hand” or “giving a hand” in the ancient Nahuatl language. It’s a sentiment that speaks to not only the handmade quality of each Makaua product, but also the positive impact the process has on the makers’ quality of life.
The local artisans are responsible for the entire process, including foraging in the hills for the palm leaves, hand-braiding the leaves together, dyeing the braids and sewing them together. No detail is left unattended to. Even small things matter, like making sure the leaves are cut, boiled and left to dry in the sun for 3-4 days after they’re harvested (this makes their texture easier to manipulate).
Most of the construction takes place within the artisans’ homes, where they utilize braiding techniques that have been handed down from generation to generation for hundreds of years. The type of palm used is unique to these traditions as well. The scientific name for these palms is Brahea Dulcis, but it is also commonly referred to as Blue Rock Palm. Specific to the subtropical climates in Mexico, this natural material is inherently linked to the rich cultural history of Mexican palm basketry. Makaua’s network of artisans not only create beautiful and timeless pieces, but have allowed us to bring a piece of Mexican culture into everyday lives around the world, fostering beautiful connections between people, process and art.
Our Makaua Selection
We work with Makaua to bring you a selection of designs that are form and function — and look truly at home anywhere.
Loma Baskets
Available in 15.75” and 19.5”, these baskets are both strong and functional. Store anything from shoes to throw blankets inside and use the sturdy handles to transport them from room to room. Mix and match the Ochre, Black and Gray banded colors and sizes to set the scene for your modern home.
Round Baskets
Comes in four sizes, from 8” (a catchall for all of life’s little things) up to 14” (for magazines, toys, more) and in Black or Gray. Of course they look good alone as purely decorative pieces; and if you have a variety of sizes, they can neatly nest in each other. This style is neutral on the inside and has a dyed outer band — which adds that element of modern boldness.
Storage Baskets With Lids
Available in 13” and 14.75” – the two sizes nest in each other. Whether you choose the Black or Gray, take advantage of the lid and keep what you’re stashing out of sight. Outfit the entire room and add the matching Waste Basket and Large Hamper.
Natural Nido Basket
“Nido” means “nest” in Spanish. Consider the Natural Nido Basket your safe place for just about anything — and take advantage of the leather handle for easy portability. Make it a set with the Natural Tall Floor Basket.
Round Placemats
Great for an outdoor dinner party, as well as everyday meals. The circular breaks convention and adds interest, as does the texture of the hand-braided weave. Available in Black or Gray.
Shop our entire collection of Makaua items here.