Design and Art news, reviews, comments and original features

Bringing Life Back to Wood with these New Trends

Wood has always been a favorite material in interiors. And now, American interior designers are bringing life back to this classic element through new trends.

Interior designer Brian Patrick Flynn along with other leading designers have recently started a new campaign in making wood a part of interior design trends this year through “Wood Naturally.

Flynn said, “Designers are drawn to wood for use in interior finishes because of its natural beauty and design versatility.” He adds, “The addition of a warm, familiar material to a room enhances an otherwise modern space. Interior finishes with wood add the perfect touch of rusticity to a contemporary home.”

One of the major trends in using wood this year is through statement walls, usually in the form of wainscoting and paneling. Sandra Powell, author of SawdustGirl.com says,

"Paneled walls and ceilings have been on trend for a while now, and are still going strong. Whether an appearance wall features stained or natural wood, it will add beauty, character and personality to a room.”

Using the natural texture and color of wood are also becoming bigger this year. Ronique Gibson, author of home design blog Stagetecture.com says, “Every species of softwood has natural color and grain pattern. Some are lighter and create a sophisticated, open and airy sense in the room.” Gibson, who is also an architect also adds that the kind of color and texture of wood actually sets the tone for the interior.

For Flynn, using wood for finished ceilings is one way to enhance the architectural details of an interior, allowing the user of the space to really explore it. Flynn recommends using different types of methods such as wood trimming, decking, planking or adding siding to the ceiling to make the visitors of the space look upward and notice the attractiveness of it.

Lastly, upcycling reclaimed wood and giving it new life by using it in interiors is a way for homeowners to enjoy the beauty of an aged wood. Weathered wood has unique qualities that bring character to a space. Gibson suggests using old wooden planks as a  table or barn doors as headboards or as sliding doors.