Loving Wood's Live Edge
8 ways to use more of a tree's natural beauty in design
Here in the Northwest, it’s all about the wood. One of the current design trends is the use of live-edge wood. The concept of a slab of wood which still shows the outline of the tree presents some wonderful design opportunities and challenges. How does one work with furniture that is not square or keep it from feeling too rustic? The beauty of live-edge furniture is the ability to work with any style. It just takes some thought to balance out the inherent qualities in the wood with the other design elements in the room.
Heft as a design element. This is one of those rooms that can take a while to figure out why it works so perfectly. Closer examination shows an abundance of detail in the pieces surrounding the dining table — scroll work in the console table, the intricate carvings in the wall-hung panels and the contemporary styling of the ladder-back chairs work well with the simplicity and pure heftiness of this table.
Again, the rustic nature of the headboard pairs nicely with the romantic nature of this sweet bedroom.
Wood as sculpture. This designer selected key pieces to act as sculpture in this space. With a two-story tall wall of windows, there's little wall space for conventional art, so why not choose art in a different form? The raw nature of the coffee table and sleek design of the chaise make for an interesting pairing.
Another view shows off the tables sculptural nature.
Define a function. Kitchens are typically all straight lines and cold surfaces. Throwing in a chunk of wood "sliced" into this island for a built-in eating area is pure genius. Notice the color of the wood is completely different from all other surfaces, further defining its function.
Paired with metal. A powder room showcases a live-edge, floating console sink with hammered bronze vessel sink and wall-mounted faucets. The tomato bisque color on the walls brings out the red tones in the wood.
Wood as luxe. There's something about the deep gray-blue tones in this room, the velvety settee and the acrylic side tables that screams sumptuous. The darker wood tones add to the simplicity and beauty of this room, while bringing in a needed natural element.
A touch of the outside. In this ultra-modern environment, the live-edge shelf plays well against the steel and white surfaces. One, simple natural element to remind visitors of the outside world.
Wood, stone and "fire." As a floating shelf against the stone wall, this slab is a great way to bring some lightness to the otherwise heavy feeling of the surface.
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