Behind the Design | Phillip Jeffries

How Artisans Craft Our Raffia Wallcovering

Written by Phillip Jeffries | Jun 19, 2025 1:00:00 PM

When it comes to wallcovering that exudes both elegance and texture, few materials rival the natural charm of raffia. Phillip Jeffries newest collection, Fringe Benefits, takes this timeless material to new heights with a double-row fringe.

Raffia is a natural fiber derived from the dried leaves of the raffia palm. Each strand is handwoven, a process that reflects the rhythm of nature itself. Because raffia is harvested seasonally, slight variations in color and texture are not only expected—they’re celebrated. These subtle shifts are what give raffia wallcoverings their organic soul and one-of-a-kind appeal. We offer many styles from braided and thatched to metallic washes and 3D details. Below we'll share details on each collection.




Fringe Benefits & Capri Raffia

Whether finished with a subtle metallic wash or left in its natural state, raffia texture is unmistakably rich and our latest collection is offered with a fringe or on it's own as a complement called Capri Raffia. Fringe Benefits is a glamorous reinterpretation of classic raffia. Crafted with authentic raffia fibers, this wallcovering introduces a double-row fringe detail that adds playful sophistication to any space. Each panel is pre-trimmed to 43 inches wide and features a 21.5-inch vertical repeat, ensuring seamless installation and a consistent visual rhythm across walls. The collection is stocked in the U.S. and typically ships within 1–2 days.



Woven of only the finest authentic raffia, the Rainforest Raffia Collection encompasses three series, Island, African, and Rainforest Raffia. All are hand-woven by artisans, the Island Raffia in the Philippines and the African in Madagascar. The raffia matting is then transported to our Japanese mill where it is expertly laminated to a fabric backing and finished with a stain repellent finish.

Island Raffia: Breezy, Organic, and Effortlessly Chic

Island Raffia captures the essence of coastal living. Handwoven from sustainable raffia fibers, it brings a breezy, organic texture to interiors that crave warmth and authenticity. Here it looks great in this bedroom in Nantucket designed by Kemble Interiors. This wallcovering is ideal for spaces that aim to feel like a retreat—think beach houses, spa bathrooms, or serene bedrooms. Its natural inherent beauty and tonal variations are part of its charm, making every panel feel like a one-of-a-kind piece of art.

 

Raffia With A Twist: Where Texture Gets Playful

Whether you're styling a coastal retreat or a modern lounge, these wallcoverings bring warmth, texture, and a touch of the unexpected. Below, Raffia With A Twist, is a chic "twist" on a classic raffia, this textured raffia grasscloth wallcovering is handcrafted from sustainable materials with delicate, knotted bow accents.

Max’s Metallic Raffia: Where Texture Meets Glamour

For those who want the textural beauty of authentic raffia with a touch of shimmer, Max’s Metallic Raffia is the perfect choice. This wallcovering is handwoven and laminated in Japan, then finished with a subtle metallic wash that adds dimension and drama. The result is a luxurious surface that catches the light beautifully—ideal for powder rooms, dining areas, or anywhere you want a bit of sparkle.


 

These raffia wallcoverings—whether the tailored fringe of Fringe Benefits, the coastal cool of Island Raffia, or the luminous finish of Max’s Metallic Raffia—demonstrate how natural materials can be elevated through thoughtful design and craftsmanship. Each style offers a distinct interpretation of texture, allowing designers to layer in depth, warmth, and nuance without compromising on elegance. In spaces where surface matters, these wallcoverings deliver both substance and style.