Since the Stone Age, wood has been the go-to construction material for builders and designers. Compared to steel and concrete, writes Clay Risen of Popular Science, it’s “cheaper, easier to assemble, and more fire resistant, thanks to the way wood chars [who knew??]. It’s also more sustainable. Wood is renewable like any crop, and it’s a carbon sink, sequestering the carbon dioxide it absorbed during growth even after it’s been turned into lumber.”
More simply put, because wood used to be a living organism, it contains a spiritual energy that affects us in a positive way and helps create a relaxing environment. (Don’t believe me? Search “forest bathing” to learn about the benefits of walking through a forest of trees.)
Wood’s Zen-like presence can be found everywhere in interior design. Its natural organic properties make it one of the most versatile elements evident in all good design, and a simple way to bring nature to every room of your home.
The root of great design
In addition to its soothing effects on your senses, wood is one of the only materials that can be finished to look like shiny marble, or in almost any way you can imagine. There are lots of techniques for texturizing, smoothing, painting and staining wood to give it the look you want. Or left in its natural state, wood can be crafted into truly gorgeous, one-of-a-kind designs that showcase its unique imperfections, knots and grains.
Wood can be used virtually everywhere – inside and out – as a design element to complement any style. In addition to the durable, classic beauty of fine wood furniture, envision it on your floors, walls, ceilings, patios and in accessories throughout your home.
Nail any décor from country to contemporary, traditional to transitional by mixing and matching wood finishes. Sustain your look for years with reclaimed and refinished wood used in doors, windows, flooring, ceiling beams, and as a decorative accent almost anywhere.
Can’t afford to re-floor with wood? Reach for it on your windows with natural woven wood coverings (like our new Veronica Valencia Island Woven Wood in luscious Lomaloma), or real-wood blinds like our 2” Select American Hardwoods (shown here in Old Mahogany).
Need some more inspiration? Here’s a link to 18 incredible DIY ideas (like this sweet little side table) to create your own unique wooden designs. Let us know how they turn out. Post your projects in the Comments section here on The Blinds Spot blog.
