IF THE TERM “WOOD FINISHES” TAKES YOU BACK TO THE 70’S, THINK AGAIN. BUILDERS ARE USING NATURAL WOODS TO BRING WARMTH AND CHARACTER TO BRIGHT, OPEN HOME CONCEPTS.
Natural wood inspires warmth and a connection to nature, so it’s no wonder we continue to see it dress the floors and living areas of modern homes. But make no mistake, wood surfaces are no longer relegated to just flooring. There are two important reasons why we’re starting to see wood play an integral role in home design: homeowners love its authenticity and wood gently blends all the trendy “all white everything” with contrasting surfaces and grain.
LOOKING UP Cathedral ceilings and high pitch rooms are nothing new, but the treatment of these spaces has been enhanced by incorporating wood. Builders are installing more rustic wood beams, reclaimed wood features and wood paneling on the ceilings of homes to give them new depth and character. Luxury Home Builder Ron Boshaw said,“Wood detailing can completely change the feel of a room and even the acoustics.” Boshaw adds that several of his Palmetto Bluff clients have requested painting wood features with popular lighter paint colors.“The result is an casual elegance that actually complements the interior design.”
LAYERING Modern wood paneling adds dimension without being depressing. Shiplap took the world by storm in recent years and will continue to remain popular. But Boshaw, other builders and designers are also experimenting with board and batten as well as natural wood accent walls, exposed ceiling beams, and trusses that create an interesting focal point. “Sometimes the texture of wood is enough to give a room more depth. But add a complimentary stain or color to a wood feature and “you’ve accomplished that wow factor,” Boshaw explained.
LEVERAGING THE APPEAL A vast variety of wood applications allows owners to creatively customize their homes, so builders and designers are receptive to the possibilities. Plus wood accents endure, promising timeless appeal within the context of traditional or contemporary design. “Wood finishes are low maintenance while high performance,” Boshaw notes. “Because they’re both modern and authentic, they’re a must-have for prospects who value the new lowcountry vernacular.”
STORY AND PHOTOS PROVIDED BY BOSHAW RESIDENTIAL
