Types of woods for a timeless home

Creating a timeless and inviting space in your home requires careful consideration of various design elements. Among the many of these elements, the choice of wood plays a crucial role in defining the overall aesthetic and ambiance. Clients often ask, “Which type of wood is best for furniture?”, “What type of wood is best for flooring?” or “What type of wood is the best quality?”. While each type of wood has a different purpose, characteristic, and use, there are some variants that prevail amongst the rest. In this blog post, we'll delve into the world of wood, exploring different types that effortlessly elevate the beauty of your home. We’ll go over the best woods for furniture and flooring and my favorites to use in high-end and luxury interior design projects.

Hardwood vs. Softwood

Before going into the specifics of wood grain types, colors, and varieties it’s important to know the difference between Hardwoods and Softwoods. Types of wood can fall into one of these two categories and despite the nomenclature, the differences are not solely related to the actual hardness of the wood. The discrepancies are actually based on botanical classifications ranging from physical characteristics, uses, and sources of trees.

Hardwoods

Think Oak, Teak, Walnut, Maple, Mahogany, Sungkai.

Hardwood is the face of luxury and timeless furniture. Due to its high density, hardwood stands the test of time making it incredibly durable and resistant to wear and tear. These variations are forms of deciduous or angiosperm trees which are mostly broad-leaved trees and generally slower growing. This slow growth is a contributing factor to the trunk's density and varied and pronounced grain patterns. These desirable properties make hardwood a sought option for high-quality furniture, flooring, and decorative pieces. Its beauty, strength, and ability to withstand heavy use make hardwoods a great option for dining tables, chairs, and bed frames. Some of my favorite types of hardwood for interior design projects are:

Teak:

Renowned for its regal appearance and exceptional durability, teak remains one of the most coveted choices for creating a timeless home. Originating from tropical regions, this dense and sturdy wood is rich in natural oils, making it highly resistant to decay, rot, and termites. The striking golden-brown hue, complemented by its straight grain and occasional knots, adds character and warmth to any space. The beauty of teak wood deepens with age and is commonly found in mid-century furniture and designs, which is why mid-century modern is so timeless.

Mahogany:

If you seek an opulent touch in your home design, look no further than mahogany. Known for its rich reddish-brown color and fine, straight grain, this premium wood exudes luxury and elegance. Mahogany is often used for creating exquisite furniture pieces, cabinetry, and ornamental details. Mahogany also compliments well with contrasting patterns and textures. In the SF Bungalow Project, the mahogany framed sofa and armchair create a bold but elegant presence.

Sungkai:

Sungkai wood is a hidden gem in the world of interior design, celebrated for its graceful simplicity and distinctive appearance. Native to Southeast Asia, this medium-density hardwood boasts a light to medium brown color with occasional hints of reddish tones. Its fine, straight- grain pattern adds a touch of elegance to any space. Sungkai's understated charm makes it an excellent choice for crafting timeless furniture pieces, accent pieces, and wall paneling. Its versatility allows it to effortlessly blend with a variety of decor styles, from rustic and vintage to modern and eclectic. Whether used in its natural form or with a light finish, Sungkai adds a sense of refinement to every corner of your home.

Walnut:

Walnut wood has long been revered for its timeless sophistication and exquisite dark tones. This hardwood, native to North America, boasts a rich chocolate brown color, often enhanced with streaks of lighter sapwood. The natural swirls and knots in the grain lend a captivating character to any piece crafted from this wood. The exceptional beauty of walnut makes it a top choice for crafting luxurious and enduring furniture, cabinetry, and decorative accents. Its deep, rich hues complement a wide range of color palettes and styles, from traditional to contemporary, adding an air of opulence and refinement.

Softwoods

Think cedar, pine, fir, spruce, and redwood.

Conversely to the defining property of Hardwood, most Softwoods have a lower density. Softwoods derive from coniferous trees (meaning cone-producing trees) with needlelike leaves and typically grow at a faster rate than hardwoods. What makes softwoods sought out is their versatility, pliability, and range. Softwoods are very easy to handle, take on stains and tints very well, and typically have a uniform grain and texture. Cedar and pines are commonly found in many house components and are most used for elements like doors, and window frames and can be a preferred option for flooring as its less dense and absorbs the high traffic impact. Imagine the difference on your knees between walking on cement vs carpet. Softwoods can also be a great type of wood to use to make integrate later into a project as their color can often be easily treated and adapted to match existing pieces.

Pine:

Pinewood, celebrated for its rustic appeal and versatility, has long been a beloved choice for creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere in any space. Its light, natural color ranges from creamy white to light yellow, and it boasts a prominent grain pattern that adds character to furniture and architectural elements. The charm of pine lies in its ability to adapt to various design styles, from traditional country homes to modern farmhouse interiors. Its softwood nature makes it easy to work with, allowing for intricate carvings and details. Pine is often used for crafting durable furniture - which makes is a great option for Family home projects. A pine kitchen nook table or island is an ideal option for taking on life’s unexpected surprises.

Cedar:

Cedarwood is known for its captivating aroma, insect-resistant properties, and remarkable durability. Its color ranges from reddish-brown to light tan, and it features a tight, straight grain that enhances its natural appeal. The natural oils in cedar provide exceptional resistance to decay and insect damage, making it an excellent choice for both indoor and outdoor use. In interior design, cedar is often selected for creating exquisite furniture, closets, and cabinetry. The aroma of cedar adds a touch of comfort to any space, while its timeless beauty harmonizes effortlessly with various design themes, including rustic, coastal, and contemporary.

So, what is the best type of wood?

Choosing the right type of wood for your home is crucial in creating a timeless and elegant interior that withstands the ever-changing trends, but isn’t always easy. Overall, hardwoods like Cherry wood, Walnut wood, Teak and, if you’re lucky, Rosewood are timeless choices for long-lasting, durable, and quality furniture pieces. Tables, chairs, dressers, and cabinets made from these types of wood almost never go out of style and will last a lifetime.

While each wood type brings its unique character and appeals to different spaces, only an experienced and trained designer can help you choose the right one that reflects your personality while understanding how its function will incorporate into your home. Investing in quality wood and consulting with an experienced designer is an investment in the lasting beauty and value of your home.