Create an ideabook for your next remodeling project!
Browse more than 1,000,000 photos from top designers and save your favorites
Loving Wood's Live Edge
8 Ways to Use More of a Tree's Natural Beauty in Design
I started JASON BALL interiors out of a passion for the design and building process. For me, it's all about learning about my clients and creating a personalized space that fits the way they live.
I started JASON BALL interiors out of a passion for the design and building... More »
Here in the Northwest, it's all about the wood. One of the current design trends is the use of live-edge wood. The concept of a slab of wood which still shows the outline of the tree presents some wonderful design opportunities and challenges. How does one work with furniture that is not square or keep it from feeling too rustic? The beauty of live-edge furniture is the ability to work with any style. It just takes some thought to balance out the inherent qualities in the wood with the other design elements in the room.
Like it? Save it to your Ideabook »
Add contrast. I simply adore the idea of this live-edge table combined with the wiry, transparent nature of the table base and chairs. A superb example of using the juxtaposition of two design elements to one's advantage.
Like it? Save it to your Ideabook »
Heft as a design element. This is one of those rooms that can take a while to figure out why it works so perfectly. Closer examination shows an abundance of detail in the pieces surrounding the dining table — scroll work in the console table, the intricate carvings in the wall-hung panels and the contemporary styling of the ladder-back chairs work well with the simplicity and pure heftiness of this table.
| Like it? Save it to your Ideabook »
|
| Again, the rustic nature of the headboard pairs nicely with the romantic nature of this sweet bedroom. |
| Wood as sculpture. This designer selected key pieces to act as sculpture in this space. With a two-story tall wall of windows, there's little wall space for conventional art, so why not choose art in a different form? The raw nature of the coffee table and sleek design of the chaise make for an interesting pairing. |
| Another view shows off the tables sculptural nature. |
Define a function. Kitchens are typically all straight lines and cold surfaces. Throwing in a chunk of wood "sliced" into this island for a built-in eating area is pure genius. Notice the color of the wood is completely different from all other surfaces, further defining its function.
Like it? Save it to your Ideabook »
Paired with metal. A powder room showcases a live-edge, floating console sink with hammered bronze vessel sink and wall-mounted faucets. The tomato bisque color on the walls brings out the red tones in the wood.
Like it? Save it to your Ideabook »
Wood as luxe. There's something about the deep gray-blue tones in this room, the velvety settee and the acrylic side tables that screams sumptuous. The darker wood tones add to the simplicity and beauty of this room, while bringing in a needed natural element.
Like it? Save it to your Ideabook »
A touch of the outside. In this ultra-modern environment, the live-edge shelf plays well against the steel and white surfaces. One, simple natural element to remind visitors of the outside world.
Like it? Save it to your Ideabook »
Wood, stone and "fire." As a floating shelf against the stone wall, this slab is a great way to bring some lightness to the otherwise heavy feeling of the surface.
Next: Browse more home design photos
Next: Browse more home design photos
Ideabook updated on Feb. 26, 2011.
What are you working on?
News From Our Partners
Latest Ideabooks
People found the photos in this ideabook after searching for:
View over a million photos:
That coffee table is so beautiful. It was made by a friend of the architect on that project. All of the lines in the loft were so straight and angular -- it really needed some organic curves to soften the room. Live edge wood can do so much to warm up a space that would otherwise be quite cold.
I was glad to see you included a photo of the home by Hanrahan Meyer Architects. That is one of my all-time favorite interiors. They use live edge pieces throughout the entire home to spectacular effect.
Great posting!! Looking forward to the next one!
I love this look and never knew to call it "live edge wood" before - thanks Jason!
Becky
Pangaea, I love the loft you designed- fabulous!
I totally agree with the great design in the space by Pangaea...nice!
I would love to see other examples of comfortable contrasting dining chairs for a live wood dining table. The metal mesh chairs look good, but would you want to linger at that dinner table for a few hours on those chairs? Design ideas for other chairs please!
We are in the middle of a live edge project - a bar out of bookmatched bubinga. Yes, here in the NW live edge does seem to be all the rage! I love it. Thanks for all the ideas.
wabi sabi = elegant imperfection