Explore the timeless appeal of adding wood to a home’s interior.
By Tanya A. Yacina
Whether trying to bring warmth and beauty, sustainability and durability, or a versatile aesthetic into your home, wooden design elements are valued for their beauty, functionality and ability to enhance the overall ambiance and appeal of a space.
Dina Marciano, interior designer and founder of the eponymous Dina Marciano Design, says when designing a home, her creativity is inspired by the serenity of nature, the timeless beauty of organic materials and the harmony that comes from incorporating sustainable elements.
Some of the latest trends in wood design involve utilizing reclaimed wood for a rustic touch, incorporating organic textures for added warmth and blending different wood tones to create a cohesive and elegant aesthetic.
“Wooden products and design elements serve as a beautiful and organic addition to any living space, bringing a sense of calm, … connection to nature and an understated sophistication that complements various design styles,” Marciano says. “To select the right type of wood for an elegant and not dated look, I recommend … lighter wood tones like oak or maple for an airy feel, choosing straight and fine grain patterns—drift cut—for a clean look, and combining different wood finishes for a modern twist.”
Marciano suggests incorporating wood into flooring for a warm foundation while using it in cabinetry can add depth and character. Utilize wood for accent walls to create visual interest, ceiling details for a touch of luxury and furniture pieces to infuse natural beauty into the space. In her own projects, she has integrated lumber through custom-built furniture pieces, elegant paneling, minimalistic accents and biophilic design elements like living walls, as well as incorporating plant life to play on the healthy environment and serenity of the space.
“For those focusing on wood decor, I recommend incorporating wooden art pieces, sculptural wood lighting fixtures, handcrafted … bowls or vases, sustainable wood sculptures and botanical-inspired … wall hangings to bring a touch of nature indoors,” she explains. “Larger … design elements like a grand wooden dining table, a striking wooden staircase, a statement … headboard or a dramatic live-edge wood feature wall can serve as impactful focal points in a home, creating a sense of sophistication and tranquility.”
Overall, Marciano recommends finding a balance between different tones and textures, and contrasting the wood with other materials for an elegant, modern look. Lighting can be used to highlight the natural beauty of the wood. She also advises to avoid overwhelming a home’s space by using too much and to try to stick to a cohesive color palette.
Earth-Based Elements
Add tones of oak, walnut and more to your space with these products from local shops.
