Usage of natural wood has a prominent role in interior design. Mankind used it in their homes from the very beginning, because it always meant an easily accessible, workable and decorated material. Floor covering, furniture, wall paneling, domestic objects, decorating ornaments were made of it, moreover still whole houses are built using only wood.
Wooden materials are separated into two groups: softwood and hardwood. It refers to the hardness of the material, how resistant it is against mechanical impacts. The elements of the previous group (e.g. pines, aspen, willow) are much more easily workable, but the latters (e.g. oak, beech, ebony) are much more durable.
When using wood, care should be taken to ensure, the used material is not faulty, since the durability and aesthetics of the product is the issue. The stunted growth (e.g. tortuosity, knur), spots caused by pests (e.g. fungus, dry rot, wood-beetle) and by inappropriate storage (e.g. casting, crack) worsen the capabilities of usage. A good professional notices these and chooses only fine quality material.
The surface of the wood should be treated. This could be oiling, when the oil soaks into the surface, but the nervure and the original color remains clearly visible. This is true for waxing also. Lacquering creates a translucent protective layer on the surface of the material. After burnishing the nervure remains visible also, but the color changes. Painting covers both the color and the pattern of the wood (in case of a less decorative wooden material, this is a good choice).
Examine with a professional’s eye the wood furniture or building elements, bought used or brand new. In case of uncertainty, ask for help of a wood specialist about the chosen pieces before purchasing.
If you also would like to see the beauty of solid wood in your home, ask for help of an interior designer for planning.