In 2023, the interior design industry has been all about texture, and wood is one of the best materials to incorporate texture into your home. The natural patterns and hues of wood bring an unparalleled aesthetic to any space, and the customization options are endless. This article explores various ways to introduce wood into your home, as well as the types of wood you might consider.
Exterior Applications
Wood isn’t confined to the interior of your home; it can also be used on the exterior. ARCH Design Studio explains that wood can be used in various exterior elements such as walls, decks, roofs, windows, and fences. You can opt for a completely wooden exterior or just incorporate certain wooden elements with different finishes.
Siding
Wood siding has been a popular choice for homes for a long time. In contrast to the commonly used vinyl or plastic siding, wood offers longevity and makes a bold statement. Wood siding comes in various styles, from horizontal slats to vertical boards, and can be painted any color if you’re not a fan of the natural wood look. Pine and cedar are typically used for exterior sidings.
Decks
A deck can provide usable outdoor space and add an aesthetic feature to your house. Although composite materials are sometimes used for decks, real wood remains a popular and sturdy choice. Redwood and cedar are common choices, or you could opt for pressure-treated wood, which withstands outdoor conditions, heavy use, and water.
Fences & Architectural Features
A wooden fence can significantly enhance your yard’s landscape. Pine, cedar, cypress, and redwood are suitable choices for a fence. Beyond fences, wooden architectural features like shutters, beams, or flower beds can add a touch of texture to your exterior.
Interior
There are numerous ways to integrate natural wood into your home’s interior.
Kitchen
Wood remains the primary material choice for kitchen cabinets. Leaving the wood texture visible can add a natural warmth to your kitchen. Pre-made cabinets often use wood-like materials or composites, but many cabinets are still made of genuine wood, including red oak, white oak, hickory, cherry, hard maple, birch, ash, and pine. Wood is also a popular choice for countertops, with butcher block countertops typically made of hard maple, teak, birch, or walnut wood.
Custom Furniture
While much pre-made furniture uses composite and vinyl material to mimic wood, finding completely wooden furniture is still possible. The easiest way to ensure your furniture is entirely wood is to get it custom-made or make it yourself. Built-in shelving and storage can add a design feature to your home while also providing functionality.
Floors
Although there are many flooring options that resemble wood, like vinyl planks, they can’t replicate the exact look and feel of real wood. Hardwood floors have been extremely popular over the last few decades, offering a more sophisticated and clean alternative to carpeted or tiled floors. Cherry, hickory, American walnut, pine, birch, and bamboo are some popular choices.
Ceilings & Walls
Wood isn’t just for floors! It can be used to add texture to ceilings or walls. Wooden ceiling beams can lend a rustic feel to your home, while millwork like board-and-batten or tongue-and-groove can add even more texture. Lattice walls made of bamboo can serve as dividers between rooms.
Working with a contractor
No matter what type of renovations you’re considering, it’s crucial to work with a trusted contractor like ARCH Design Studio. Their in-house design and architecture team will ensure your project meets your expectations.