Decorating Guides
Spotted: Whirling, Wonderful Burl Wood
The organic patterns of this unusual wood are making their way into modern and traditional spaces alike
Burl wood — swirling, knotty and always unique — comes from a growth on a tree, often attached to the root or side. When cut, it reveals intricate patterns highly prized by woodworkers and furniture makers. It’s used in everything from coffee tables to chests of drawers, in modern pads as well as traditional spaces. Here are 10 reasons to love this whirling, wonderful wood.
2. Burl wood is elegant. When used as a veneer on furniture (like the chest of drawers shown here), burl wood has an elegant, refined look. An antique burl wood desk, chest or armoire would make a stunning focal point in a traditional space.
3. Burl wood brings an organic touch to modern spaces. Modern spaces run the risk of looking too crisp, clean and one-note. Break things up by introducing a wonderfully gnarled burl wood piece — suddenly you have some creative tension.
4. Burl wood ties together eclectic styles. Wish you could mix up eras and styles of furniture and decor with abandon? Perhaps all you need to tie everything together is one stunning burl wood piece. The organic shape goes so well with just about anything.
5. Burl wood helps your garden grow. A burl wood planter makes the perfect complement to succulents or air plants. Use a bowl planted with succulents as an everlasting centerpiece on the dining table or anywhere around the house.
7. Burl wood can be laid-back and beachy. A thick slab of burl wood makes a sturdy piece of furniture that you don’t have to worry about putting your feet on. (You might want some coasters to prevent water stains, though.) Mixed with beachy blue stripes and casual white slipcovered furniture, a burl wood table becomes the centerpiece of an easygoing hangout room.
9. Burl wood makes a natural focal point. From the dramatic shape of a curving bowl to the swirling finish of a veneered table, this unique wood never fails to draw attention. Use a special piece to focus the eye right where you want it — to the center of a conversation area or the end of a long hallway, or to bring interest to a blank corner.
10. Burl wood is one of a kind. Because no two pieces of burl wood are alike, it follows that no two pieces of burl wood furniture or decor are exactly alike, either. By bringing a piece of this unusual wood into your home, you’re making your own statement — and declaring your independence from cookie-cutter design.
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Beware of burl poaching: Burl wood comes from many species of tree and, when harvested legally, can be a sustainable source of gorgeous wood. Unfortunately, the burls of some ancient coastal redwoods have been cut by poachers, which can leave the trees susceptible to disease or even death, so be sure to ask about the origin of your burl wood furniture to make sure it comes from a responsible source.