PERSPECTIVE OCT 2006-
Better Home Design with US Hardwoods

TITLE: Better Home, Better Design in US Hardwoods

The decision to renovate a home interior is not usually made on a whim. It signifies a new opportunity to express how you want to live now and years into the future. A dwelling's character and aesthetics is undeniably shaped by the materials that one chooses. Among the many decorative materials available on the market, timber stands out as the most attractive and evocative choice.

The American Hardwood Export Council (AHEC) is an international trade association for quality US hardwoods and aims to enlighten users about the many choices available to create an interior that reflects their true style. As AHEC regional director John Chan enthuses, there are “10 commercially and readily available species of US hardwood for consumers to choose from”. Multiplying the potential of the material, there are also 20 more rare species available.

What all varieties of American hardwood have in common – and what makes them a favourite of architects and designers – is the rich patina of colours that sets them apart from other imported hardwoods: the pale blondes and greyish browns of ash; tulipwood's olive greens and yellowish brown gradations; the interesting coarser pale grained textures of white and red oak; to the sophisticated warmth of cherry and maple and the deep cocoa hues of walnut. AHEC also prides itself on the premium quality of its timbers. Only kiln-dried lumber is exported from America, its low eight per cent moisture content ensuring minimal shrinkage and warping.

Thanks to its natural lustre, natural versatility and astonishing durability, stained hardwood can be used in an enormous range of settings. The material lends itself well to fixtures like doors, veneers, wall panels, skirting boards, ceiling mouldings and staircases, either as lumber or veneer. Chan also notes that selected types of US hardwoods are also outstandingly suitable – not to mention luxurious – when used as a flooring material. Still other varieties are commonly used in furniture, giving it a texture and colour that can compliment anything from traditional to contemporary interior schemes.

To understand US hardwood's true versatility and its ability to transform a home, AHEC organises over 15 seminars a year in collaboration with professional designers to help homeowners realise their own design visions with American hardwoods. AHEC also provides invaluable online information on their website that can inspire the designer and architect alike.