One of our favourite parts of the design process at Sydenham Bespoke Joinery is talking timber selection with our clients. Each species has its own special character and suitability for different applications. In this article we’ll take a look at some of the more popular premium hardwoods and where you might use them in your new home or renovation to match your aesthetic style and budget.
Kitchens, bathrooms, laundries and interior cabinetry
Even functional parts of your home can be elevated to the extraordinary with joinery made with premium timbers. Our award-winning kitchens, bathrooms, and laundries transform the everyday experience of living in your home into something special.
- American White Oak is a popular premium choice. It has a light, consistent grain that suits modern homes, and it takes stains of a range of shades beautifully.
- Walnut is synonymous with Rolls-Royce levels of luxury. We often use it for feature joinery to make a big impact in a smaller area, like inlays or panelling.
- An oak or walnut veneer over an MDF or plywood core is a good choice for large panels where we need a stable structure, but without compromising the premium feel or visual statement that premium timber makes.
- For painted surfaces where the colour itself and a flawless finish are the most important, high-grade radiata pine or MDF is the smart choice.
Windows and exterior doors
Bespoke timber windows and doors made with premium timbers transform functional items into architectural highlights.
- Western Red Cedar is a lightweight timber that’s naturally stable and rot-resistant, making it a great choice for exterior joinery subject to Christchurch’s harsh climate and salty air.
- Accoya is what’s known as a ‘modified timber’ that’s made by treating pine with a non-toxic vinegar-like solution to produce a low movement, highly durable timber that’s perfectly suited to coastal environments. Accoya can be used as a structural element under premium veneers.
- Engineered laminated timber is a cousin to plywood, but the grains in each layer are aligned, rather than perpendicular, for superior strength in one direction. It’s often used under a premium wood veneer to give the impression of solid wood.
- Painted pine is a valid option for exterior doors and windows where cost is a consideration. It can work well for years if it’s looked after with regular touch-ups when the inevitable bumps and UV damage take their toll.
Feature joinery
There are countless opportunities in a home to create the WOW factor with premium timber media units, stairs, doors, bookcases, wine cellars … in fact, we’re only limited by your imagination.
- Walnut once again makes a well-justified appearance. Its deep, dark tones look amazing on featured items of joinery anywhere in your home and it ages beautifully.
- Oak is a perennial favourite. It’s a versatile, durable timber that’s excellent for shelving, built-in units, and stairs.
- New Zealand native timbers like Rimu and Kauri have a strong emotional appeal to many Kiwis. In particular, native timber reclaimed from demolitions can be a great option, especially as a counterpoint to contemporary architecture.
- Macrocarpa is a locally sourced, sustainable timber with a strong, rustic aesthetic.
Premium timber at a glance
American White Oak gives a modern, Scandinavian feel.
Walnut is a more traditional look that says luxury and is a favourite for high-end cabinetry. Maple and Cherry are other premium favourites.
Stained Specialty Plywood is a New Zealand classic that add warmth.
Ash and Maple are lighter timbers that create a modern feel.
Recycled Reclaimed Timber is a sustainable, locally grown timber.
Cedar is the standard for exterior joinery, such as windows.
Victorian Ash is a pale Australian hardwood with a clean, modern look.
Rustic American Oak Veneer is a light, smooth timber with a soft golden tone.
Add value to your home with premium timber joinery
Our passion for premium timber pays dividends for you in two ways. Not only will it reward you every single day with its beauty, but you are also adding value to your property. Time and time again, we’ve seen the WOW Factor of living with premium timber joinery turn into more wows at sale time. To discuss your project or to see what’s possible, get in touch with us today.