One of the qualities that makes wood such a popular tool in the design world is its versatility. It can be carved, colored, molded, and shaped to create gorgeous furniture, rich and durable flooring, beautiful custom millwork and so much more!
There are many types of wood used in architecture and interior design, so it can be difficult to determine which is the right kind for your vision and needs. When it comes to your interior trim, these are the questions you’ll want to consider!
Do you prefer hardwood or softwood?
The difference between the two classes of wood—hardwood and softwood—starts with where they come from. Hardwood comes from flowering trees that lose their leaves each year and tends to be denser. Examples of hardwood include oak, maple, walnut, and mahogany.
Softwood, on the other hand, comes from coniferous trees that maintain their leaves year-round. This type of wood has a finer, lighter grain. Examples of softwood include pine, cedar, and spruce.
How durable do you want your trim to be?
If you’re designing trim for high-traffic areas that see a lot of wear and tear (from kids, pets, furniture, etc.) such as the floor or the doorway, you’re going to need a sturdier wood. For out of reach or low impact areas such as around the windows or crown molding, you’ll have a little more flexibility.
Keep in mind that, in general, hardwood is going to be more durable than softwood.
Will you be painting or staining your trim?
Consider if a stain-grade or a paint-grade wood will better facilitate the look you’re going for with your trim. If you want something bold and rich, you’ll be better off with a hardwood that takes stain well.
If you want something a little more rustic or subtle, softwood comes in naturally lighter colors and has a more ideal grain for painting.
For millwork that blends seamlessly with the aesthetic of every room, it’s best to bring in a master hand to help you get it right. The specialized custom millwork solutions we offer at A&E Millwork cover everything from the trim in the bathroom to the cabinets in the kitchen and anything in between.
Contact our team today to bring your office, residential, or luxury millwork project to life!