Choosing the right type of decorative hardwood for your interior design project can be both an exciting and challenging task. Hardwood not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of your home but also adds a sense of luxury and durability. Whether you're looking to renovate your flooring, install wall panels, or craft bespoke furniture, sourcing the best quality decorative hardwoods is crucial. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore the top 5 places to buy decorative hardwoods, considering factors like quality, variety, customer service, and sustainability.
1. Atlantic Hardwood Flooring
Location: Multiple locations in the Northeastern United States
Atlantic Hardwood Flooring stands out due to its:
- Extensive range of exotic hardwoods including Brazilian Cherry, Tigerwood, and Ipe.
- Custom milling services for unique project specifications.
- Sustainability certifications ensuring ethical sourcing.
They cater to both DIY enthusiasts and professional contractors, offering:
- Flooring materials
- Decking
- Custom trim and molding
Their inventory includes both standard domestic hardwoods like oak and maple, and a selection of high-end international woods.
💡 Note: Always inquire about lead times for exotic woods which might not be readily available in stock.
2. Midwest Lumber
Location: Chicago, Illinois, USA
Midwest Lumber is a treasure trove for those seeking:
- Hardwood for woodworking and large-scale projects.
- Slabs for tabletops or unique furniture pieces.
- A variety of both domestic and exotic species.
They offer:
- Straight, curved, or live-edge slabs
- Wide range of thicknesses and widths
- Services like planing, sanding, and resawing
With over 100 species in stock, including rarities like Wenge, Purpleheart, and Ziricote, Midwest Lumber is a go-to for unique projects.
3. Bolder Timber Supply
Location: Boulder, Colorado, USA
Bolder Timber Supply specializes in:
- Environmentally friendly sourcing
- Unique slabs, often salvaged from fallen trees
- High-quality, artisanal woodworking supplies
Key offerings include:
- Hand-selected slabs for statement furniture pieces
- Hardwood for flooring, cabinetry, and more
- Custom lumber services
Their commitment to sustainability is evident through their FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) certifications and zero-waste practices.
🌲 Note: Bolder Timber often has irregular hours during harvesting or sourcing trips; plan your visit accordingly.
4. Sierra Pacific Industries
Location: California, Oregon, Washington
As one of the largest lumber producers in the U.S., Sierra Pacific Industries provides:
- A vast selection of lumber including hardwoods and softwoods.
- Customized solutions with dedicated project managers.
- Strict adherence to environmental standards.
They supply:
- Hardwoods like cherry, walnut, and red oak
- Moulding, beams, and trim
- Flooring materials
Their focus on sustainability, especially through forest certification, sets them apart in the market.
5. Urban Tree Craft
Location: New York, NY, USA
This unique business model focuses on:
- Urban forestry, using city trees that would otherwise go to waste.
- Circular economy practices by recycling urban lumber.
- Handcrafted, high-quality hardwood products.
Urban Tree Craft offers:
- Custom woodworking
- Slabs, beams, and flooring from urban harvested woods
- Sustainable interior design solutions
Their emphasis on local sourcing not only reduces the carbon footprint but also provides a distinctive urban-rustic appeal to the wood.
Each of these suppliers brings a unique perspective to the world of decorative hardwoods. Here are some key takeaways:
Quality and Variety:
All five locations offer top-notch hardwoods, with a broad selection of species catering to a range of tastes and project requirements.
Customization:
Whether it’s through custom milling, bespoke furniture, or unique finishes, these companies can tailor hardwood to fit your project perfectly.
Sustainability:
From FSC certifications to urban forestry initiatives, sustainable practices are integral, ensuring that your home’s beauty doesn’t compromise the health of our planet.
When embarking on a woodworking or interior design project, the source of your materials can significantly impact the final outcome. From the beauty of exotic woods to the sustainability of local sourcing, these companies provide not just wood but a story and commitment behind each piece. Choosing where to buy your decorative hardwoods involves considering quality, uniqueness, ethical practices, and the personal narrative of your home.
What is the difference between hardwood and softwood?
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Hardwood comes from angiosperm trees which lose their leaves annually, have a broad structure, and are usually denser. Softwood comes from gymnosperm trees, primarily conifers, which keep their needles year-round. Despite the names, some hardwoods are softer than softwoods. Typically, hardwoods are used for flooring, furniture, and cabinetry due to their durability.
How do I ensure the wood I buy is environmentally friendly?
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Look for certifications like FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) or SFI (Sustainable Forestry Initiative), which indicate sustainable sourcing and ethical harvesting practices. Also, consider companies that practice urban forestry or salvage wood from city trees.
Can I request custom milling for a specific project?
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Yes, many hardwood suppliers offer custom milling services where you can specify the dimensions, finish, and type of wood for your project. It’s advisable to check lead times as custom work might take longer than standard stock orders.
What are some popular decorative hardwoods?
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Popular decorative hardwoods include:
- Oak - Known for its strength and distinctive grain patterns.
- Maple - Offers a fine, even texture and can be very light or very dark.
- Cherry - Features a reddish brown hue with a satin finish.
- Walnut - Celebrated for its rich color and luxurious look.
- Brazilian Cherry - An exotic hardwood with a deep red color.
How can I care for my decorative hardwood flooring?
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Hardwood care includes:
- Cleaning with a damp mop (not wet), using cleaners designed for hardwood.
- Regularly sweeping or vacuuming to remove dirt and grit.
- Using area rugs to protect from furniture indentations.
- Refinishing when signs of wear appear to restore the wood’s finish and protect it from future damage.
