In the previous article, we looked at the differences and advantages of different kinds of softwoods, and today we’re going to look at the hardwoods.
Although hardwoods can be difficult to process, their features make them useful in various home and office furniture. Lighter colored, unfinished woods such as oak and pine will work well with a neutral palette to add natural elements to your home, while deeper woods such as cherry and walnut can add depth and variety–but should be used sparingly.
Oak
One of the granier hardwoods, oak is strong and has attractive colors. The two varieties of Oakwood that exist are red and white. The red Oak ranges from light-brown to pinkish-red, while in contrast, white oak woods have tiger-strip grains. Oakwoods are useful in cabinetry and flooring, but can also be great for everyday furniture, such as this classic oak writing desk. Also, white oak is water-resistant, and is therefore sometimes used to make boats and wine barrels.
Maple
While they may make you think of sap and syrup and the Canadian flag, maple is a strong and beautiful wood that can be used in solid, useful pieces. Its smooth, straight grain provides a simple and clean look–though there are more textured grains available. While it isn’t the hardest wood on this list, it is definitely strong enough to be handed down from generation to generation.
Cherry
As a hardwood, Cherry comes with a straight and fine grain. Its colors range from reddish-brown to blond. Cherry woods are exotic and naturally beautiful. You’ll see them in carved chairs, boat interiors, kitchen cabinets, and moulding. One of the advantages of Cherry wood is that it is easy to shape and polish. For a great example, check out this classic bedroom set, which has a hand-rubbed cherry finish.
Walnut
Deep chocolate in color, walnut is durable and can be carved into a desired shape and keep that shape for years without change. Good quality craftsmanship will do wonders with walnut. It’s also ideal for making dining tables and mantles.
Mahogany
A native wood to Mexico, Mahogany wood is strong. Also, its matured color ranges from pale to reddish-brown. Mahogany is a straight-grain durable wood with applications in most furniture from tables to chairs and anything in between. If treated well, Mahogany wood can last generations.
Birch
We love the clean lines of birch hardwood. This simple grain pattern blends well with simple interior designs, while the colors vary from cream to light reddish-brown. Additionally, it is cost-effective and can be used in a variety of household furniture pieces.
Next Steps
As you can see, there are a lot of considerations when making a decision as to what kind of wood furniture you want. Different woods have a variety of applications where they best fit, but they are all beautiful. And in fact, we at Fireside Furniture believe that no matter the type of wood, when in the hands of an expert, it can be turned into a masterpiece. That’s why we pride ourselves on using the best quality, made-in-America workmanship. Come into our showroom today to see what we have for you!
