Solid Wood
Solid wood is a direct connection to the natural world, a material that brings a unique warmth, scent, and tactile richness into a space. It is a material that is both strong and soft, structural and sensory. We use solid wood not as a decorative finish, but as a primary architectural element, a material that can define the character of a room through its grain, its colour, and its inherent connection to the living world. It is a material that ages with us, its surface a quiet record of a life lived.
Form Study 01
RF–01 · Archive Reference
Surface Properties
Hygroscopic Nature
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Wood is a hygroscopic material, meaning it naturally absorbs and releases moisture to balance itself with its surrounding environment. A large area of solid wood, like a timber floor or wall paneling, can act as a passive humidity buffer, absorbing excess moisture from the air in humid conditions and releasing it in dry conditions. This scientifically-proven property helps to stabilize the indoor climate, contributing to a more comfortable and healthier living environment.
Acoustic Absorption
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A polished finish closes the pores of the stone and creates a near-mirror-like surface that reveals the full depth, colour, and crystalline structure of the material. We use this not to create bling, but to create a dynamic dialogue with light. A polished surface brings movement into a space, reflecting the shifting light of the day and the subtle colours of the surrounding environment, making the material feel alive and responsive.
Charred Finish
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Shou Sugi Ban is a traditional Japanese technique of preserving wood by charring its surface with fire. The process creates a deep, black, carbonized layer that is remarkably resistant to rot, insects, and even fire. The resulting finish has a unique, crackled, alligator-skin texture that is both beautiful and incredibly durable. We use this ancient, science-based technique to create exterior cladding and interior feature walls that are both visually dramatic and exceptionally long-lasting.
Quiet Papers
Solid Wood in a Library and Music Room
A study on using solid oak for the floors, walls, and shelving in a library, focusing on the wood’s natural acoustic absorption properties to create a space perfect for reading and listening to music.
Solid Wood in a Bathroom
An exploration of using thermally modified, water-resistant solid wood for the floor and vanity in a bathroom, highlighting its hygroscopic nature and its ability to create a warm, spa-like environment.
Solid Wood in an Exterior Cladding Application
A case study on using Shou Sugi Ban (charred wood) for the exterior of a contemporary extension, focusing on the material’s enhanced durability, fire resistance, and unique, dramatic aesthetic.