Wood is good inside and outside
As a designer, I’ve always been fascinated by materials, trends and concepts which flow in and out of collective popularity. But, one material has endured over time, and that’s timber.
For almost 10,000 years, timber has played a significant role in building design and construction – as well as interior and furniture – because of its high quality, availability, sustainability and versatility.
But, despite its role in history, timber is increasingly dubbed as the ‘‘material of the future’’, as it has the ability to be as strong as steel but much lighter, more adaptable and extremely environmentally friendly.
In fact, research has shown that timber can reduce carbon in the atmosphere rather than add to it.
A tonne of timber framing removes a tonne of carbon.
Steel framing by comparison emits approximately 3.5 tonnes of carbon for every tonne produced.
As people are becoming more environmentally conscious, the demand for using sustainable materials within the home has risen – a theme that has been highly considered by designers for many years.
With the world’s population increasing and the pressure on densely populated cities becoming apparent, a key role as a designer is to provide a space that improves urban lives, as well as having an eye on the environment.
Understanding how we live, or how we want to live, is a key consideration for selecting materials and finishes within the home.
Timber works in any environment, whether it’s there to soften the interiors of an apartment in a concrete jungle, or to provide natural accents to a home in the countryside.
Recently, I’ve been designing my own home in Queenstown. The spectacular scenery and landscapes in the region have been a source of inspiration.
Considering natural materials as part of my build and interior choices was an easy
decision to make as it has allowed my home to become a reflection of the surrounding environment.
Here are five ways to incorporate timber into your home:
Hand-crafted timber furniture
With the rise of monochromatic rooms, hand-crafted timber furniture adds a sense of ‘‘connection with nature’’ to any room.
Timber furniture is easy to maintain and can easily be passed on after use, or upcycled into something new.
Timber flooring
As a dominant feature in a house, timber flooring makes a room feel naturally warm and relaxing.
Timber is an extremely forgiving material and if you do scratch or stain the floor, over time it will either blend in or disappear.
Alternatively, consider sanding the timber and the floors will look as new.
Internal window sills
You may have aluminium on the outside, but having an internal timber frame on window sills brings a subtle warmth and sophisticated detail.
Timber wall or ceiling linings
In the design of your home’s interior you need to consider a balance of materials to create a space that also feels comfortable and homely.
If you are using dark carpet or even concrete, which is quite a cold material, adding timber into the walls or ceiling creates a stunning balance.
Accenting
A weathered piece of timber that has been outside for decades can create a talking point. For a more polished look, beautiful timber and heritage panelling can be used in a contemporary fashion in hallways, staircases or on walls.
Jonathan Goss is a senior interior designer with Warren and Mahoney and is based in Queenstown.