MAN-MADE VERSUS NATURAL MATERIALS
Natural materials play a significant role in residential design — the grain of wood, the vein and swirls of marble, and the chic sheen of leather are not only alluring but versatile, working well with any style.
Manufacturers have been working tirelessly, however, to create man-made counterparts of these natural materials to mimic their distinct look and feel — and they ’re succeeding! These synthetic materials cost a fraction of the price, can be easier to work with, and are more conservation-friendly in that they don’t deplete natural resources.
“Not only are things like brick and stone veneers more affordable, but they are much less heavy to transport and install,” said Rebecca Mitchell of Rebecca Mitchell Interiors. “And kitchen cabinets made from polyester are more durable, in that they won’t crack or fade, and are cheaper than wood or MDF (medium density fibreboard).”
These wood-grain laminates simulate the look of real woods but don’t have the same impact on the environment as certain types of teak, ebony, and mahogany, whose supply is limited but are nevertheless commonly used in furniture and other accessories.
Natural materials are also very finicky, and they can require regular maintenance. Natural stones will need constant sealing because they are porous and susceptible to scratching, and the same can be said of particular woods. And wood floors or furnishings need regular waxing and buffing treatments to keep them from drying and warping, especially indoors during the winter, when central heating is on full-blast. Laminate and vinyl products, however, are much lower in price and need much less upkeep.
When it comes to tiles, ceramic far outweighs stone in both cost and installation requirements.
For years, ceramic has been the go-to material for tile floors and backsplashes because of its durability and uniformity in colour. Today, these tiles can be transformed into everything from decorative walls to ornate one-of-a-kind patterns.
Ciot’s new artistic mosaic service, called Ciot Studio, sees that every piece is made-to-measure and handmade by mosaic artists.
“We do mosaics for floors that are a flat, smooth surface, but on a wall application we can play with the material and give it more of a 3D effect,” said artistic director Léonor Leclair.
“They are all custom requests, depending on what the client is looking for.
“Everything is based on the client’s style — we get asked for very classic and simple designs to modern and contemporary works.”
The question of man-made versus natural often comes into play when choosing countertop materials. Common natural countertop materials include granite, marble and soapstone, and these call for frequent safeguarding. Yet, synthetic options, such as acrylic, polyester solid surface, or laminate, are all virtually maintenance-free. Stainless steel has also become a go-to for countertops because of its strength and ability to withstand heat, all of which makes for popular choices in kitchen designs.
Other man-made materials that have found a place in home decor include pleather or vegan leather — items that look and feel like real leather but have been manufactured without using any kind of animal products.
Mother Nature’s materials may be unique and exquisite, but they require a lot of upkeep and can be pricey. They also deplete natural resources.
Today ’s man-made counterparts have the same stylish look and appeal, they’re low-maintenance, and they come at a fraction of the price.
And with so many beautiful products to choose from, there’s something for every decor style.