Wood furniture has become an aesthetically pleasing trend in interior design once again, as showcased on social media platforms such as TikTok. Younger generations are seeking a modern aesthetic with wooden furniture products, accompanied by layered lighting and intricate decorations, all part of a contemporary approach to interior design.
Indeed, wood is great because it adds a natural feel to the house, and it looks amazing when accompanied by a lot of plants. From a functional perspective, wood is a cost-effective and versatile material for designers, allowing them to create some of the most interesting designs and shapes with various types of wood.
Moreover, wood is environmentally friendly, as it can be re-furbished and brought to life many times. Therefore, there are many reasons for bringing wood to your home, so let’s learn more about it.
Wood is versatile
Wood can be transformed into any piece of furniture you can think of. At the same time, the various types of wood with unique features can cater to your environment. For example, the best wood for wet climates includes teak, oak, and cedar. Of course, furniture made from these materials still requires proper maintenance, which is why many homeowners use oak wood varnish that penetrates the surface of the wood to add an extra layer of protection.
On the other hand, Douglas fir and hemlock are best for cold climates. Considering that extreme temperatures can lead to cracking as the wood expands and contracts, these products ensure long-term durability even in these climates.
Moreover, there are types of wood that come in colourful options, such as the following:
- The purple heart lumber comes from Central and South America;
- Bubinga is from Central America and has a reddish-brown colour;
- Ebony is a dark wood found in Africa, Asia, and South America;
Wood is durable
The furniture industry has begun to utilise inexpensive and disposable materials to reduce its production costs. However, this trend has led to the dangerous “fast furniture” movement, which not only poses a risk to people’s health due to the materials but also breaks down quickly.
That’s why people are encouraged to opt for natural materials and fibres when buying furniture that doesn’t shed microplastics in the house. Even buying second-hand wood is better than other materials. These pieces, too, might need some wood furniture varnish to be kept in good condition for longer.
Furniture made from solid wood can last you at least ten to fifteen years. If you’re lucky enough to find that kind of furniture our grandparents grew up with, you may be in for a lifetime. Teak, oak, or mahogany can last for at least 50 years with proper care and frequent maintenance.
Wood fits every aesthetic
The aesthetics of wood can complement any interior design style, which is why it remains a consistently popular choice. It fits seamlessly into the living room, bathroom, kitchen, and bedrooms, creating a sleek and rustic vibe throughout the house.
For example, wood is incorporated into the following styles:
- The Scandinavian style uses natural materials, such as wood, to enhance minimalism;
- The Wabi Sabi design combines wood with stone, clay, or linen to create a serene interior;
- The mid-century modern style uses wood for credenzas, sideboards, or coffee tables in unique shapes;
- The coastal design incorporates light-coloured woods like birch to establish a beachy feel;
- The traditional style has wood in rich, stained tones along with intricate details that add depth to the space;
Different types of wood can offer you a modern farmhouse entryway, a rustic bedroom, or an elegant library. You only need to know how to select the right wood materials and blend them with other natural and modern interior design elements.
Wood provides health benefits
Living in a house where wood predominates might seem to improve your health. For instance, wood can absorb moisture in the room, as it’s hygroscopic, which can help reduce the microbes in the air quality. It also supports better acoustics in the room and can maintain a comfortable temperature inside, which will be beneficial during the hot summer nights.
Wood is already gaining popularity in offices through the biophilic design, which seems to increase employee productivity. This interior design style incorporates numerous natural elements that enhance well-being, increase productivity, and help reduce stress. Getting more exposure to nature can lower one’s cortisol levels, an important hormone released when we’re stressed.
The biophilic design includes elements such as maximising natural light, introducing greenery (indoor plants, living walls), and spaces designed to offer intentional views of nature.
Wood is a great investment
Investing in wood furniture made from mahogany, maple, cherry, oak, red cedar, or teak is an investment that appreciates over time. As we’re bombarded with cheap furniture pieces that don’t last for long, or are poorly made, investing in hardwood is the best idea if you want to pass it down to future generations or sell it.
This type of wood can last even longer if it’s properly cared for. For example, mahogany-based pieces need dusting with a lint-free cloth, cleaning with mild soap and water, as well as frequent polishing. Preventing damage to it means avoiding direct sunlight and maintaining indoor humidity levels between 40% and 60%.
At the same time, it might need restoration and professional care from time to time, which includes professional expertise for refinishing or managing structural repairs. If it’s the case of antique mahogany furniture, preservation through specialised techniques is necessary to ensure the piece will last for longer.
Final considerations
Choosing wooden furniture for your home is the best decision, even if it may be a considerable investment. Wood like oak, mahogany, and red cedar is ideal for any home, as it is durable, versatile, and can bring health benefits by filtering the air and extracting humidity. However, ensuring it lasts for centuries means more attention and care than other wood materials. You can pass the furniture piece on to the next generation by managing indoor humidity, protecting it from exposure to the sun, and performing proper cleaning.
