Working with Oak in our furniture making always feels like such a privilege. An Oak tree takes a long time to grow and season, so it demands respect. By crafting cabinetry and tables individually, we are safe in the knowledge that each piece of Oak we use will bring joy to generations.
We asked our Head of Cabinetry Andy what he thinks makes Oak so appealing; he said: “Oak has a very distinctive grain pattern, so it has become synonymous with luxurious custom-made furniture. It is expensive but the benefits are worth it. It will be the star of the show, you will just want to look at it and enjoy it. Plus, for me, I can so readily envision the owners sitting by it, admiring all the unique patterns, and that makes a furniture maker happy.”
The Barristers Bookcases on the left of the photograph are a family heirloom, originally belonging to the owner’s Grandfather who was a Judge. Importantly they inspired the handmade Oak table at the end of the Island, with a hand-turned pedestal. The strong Oak table ties the whole design together with the heirloom bookcases, shelf, and cabinetry internals.
Some benefits of including Oak in your home
Strength and durability ~ Oak has been used for centuries in house builds for frames and beams because it is so strong. For that reason, it is a fantastic material to consider incorporating into your kitchen which is most likely the highest traffic area of your home. Oak is also naturally resistant to water. While we would not advise that wood is used around a sink, it does make beautiful cabinetry doors, a wonderful Island top, a table, and or shelving.
Beautiful textured grain ~ Such an easy way to bring warmth and character to your home.
Stains & Polishes ~ Oak is renowned for being easy to stain and polish which is useful for matching with existing perhaps vintage pieces and woodwork you may already have in your home.
Natural Materials and Wellbeing ~ It has been documented that having wood in our homes helps to reduce anxiety, blood pressure, and stress. Natural materials are grounding and warm. Most of us probably grew up with wooden dining room tables and chairs and those are often treasured pieces, with memories of all the Birthdays and celebrations had around them, as well as being comforting to sit at every day.
Sustainability & Environment ~ By buying FSC (Forestry Stewardship Council) certified Oak we know that the producers are vetted and manage their forests responsibly. In terms of wood being an environmentally friendly material choice for furniture making, as we know trees absorb CO2 and release oxygen. Finally of note, Oak trees can grow up to 40 feet in height, so the amount of timber yielded from each tree is higher than other species.
This kitchen was custom-made by our cabinet makers at our workshop in Shere near Guildford, Surrey.
Click here to see more of this bespoke kitchen.
We make kitchens to suit you and your property. If you’d like to know more, please do contact Ella via [email protected]