Design Trends 2012- What's Hot in Wood Furniture

In the world of wood, there are SO many looks making a name for themselves in our worlds. Let's take a deeper look at a few.

Dyed Colors-

Dyed woods have been slowly emerging as a trend in furniture for the last three years. Colors are soft and subdued and gray leads the pack, from very pale and washed out to deep charcoal. It's a neutral that is classy and classic.

Metallic Washes-

Many casegoods that we saw at the show had metallic touches mixed within their dyes, paints and stains. In addition to this, many pieces were colorblocked, having two entirely different finishes and creating multiple levels of interest.  

Exotic Woods- Macassar Ebony RULES!-

Macassar Ebony is my most favorite wood species. While many who are unfamiliar with this well loved designer wood, think it's stripes are manufactured, it is a true natural wood. Macassar Ebony is an African wood with a deep black center that, when cross cut can produce wavy to very lineal black ribbon-like stripes on a tan or yellowy base. The result is a stunning wood that cabinet and furniture makers use on everything from tables to kitchen cabinets to beds. Here are a few of my faves from the World Market Show 2012.

Blanched Wood-

Woods making everything from traditional to rustic contemporary pieces have been stripped of their color or have white or bleached overtones and light distressing. Natural, more organic looks with no stains are growing as the desire for sustainable furnishings continues to gain in public opinion. For finishes, the look is matte. Top coats are no longer shiny and showing off. They now relax and let the beauty of the wood be the focal point.

I LOVE this piece with the door knocker pulls, another huge trend this year- more about this in  'Details' blog.

No matter which one of these wooden design trends you choose to incorporate into your home, you won't go wrong. The best way to use these looks is to add one piece along a focal wall and give it some meaning with great decor and a bold color on the wall. If you are ready to change furniture groupings in your home, such as your table sets or bedroom furnishings, I'd focus more on the dyed pieces or naturals- they're not going anywhere. I believe the blanched, bleached woods to be a trend that will pass in the next few years.