Wood in a home adds warmth, coziness, and character.  It adds dimension and life.  It reminds one of the solace of nature, the hearth of a fire, a romantic Parisian cafe, a rustic cottage in the dense woods of the Rockies.  As we are descending on the holiday season, the thought of a warm oak lined library or gorgeous hardwood floors, makes one think of happiness and home.

Oblong pedestal tables are fantastic as are French carved oak Louis XV tables.  I don’t mind some wear to show the age, in fact I really appreciate it. Aged patina can be wonderful, particularly on a white washed Swedish Gustavian piece. Mahogany can be great especially when paired with American continental decor surroundings.  Trestle farm tables in pinewood are to die for and uber hip at the moment and look smashing with age.  These are fantastic as a single hard slab or several thick slabs fitted together.  Wood can even fit right in with modern furnishings as it softens the hard masculine edges of contemporary design and adds some softness and femininity.

“Everyone can identify with a fragrant garden, with beauty of sunset, with the quiet of nature, with a warm and cozy cottage.”
–Thomas Kincade

Courtesy of My French Country Home