2024 International Wood Magazine and Buyer’s Guide
INTERNATIONAL WOOD
THE GUIDE TO APPLICATIONS, SOURCES AND TRENDS
BUYERS GUIDE
RESIDENTIAL TRENDS LEAD WITH QUIET LUXURY THE JOURNEY OF RESPONSIBLE SOURCING
WOOD HAS AN IMPORTANT STORY TO TELL IN THE CIRCULAR ECONOMY
FRANK LLOYD WRIGHT CONTINUES TO INSPIRE
Look for expanded content in the digital issue at www.IWPAwood.org
IWPA’s Membership Directory highlights the leading suppliers to the North American market of hardwood and softwood lumber, flooring, decking, veneer, plywood and other composite wood products. This onestop resource guide also provides contact information for ports, shipping companies, third-party certifiers and others that are helping to advance international trade in wood products.
CONTENTS 26
10 FROM THE FOREST | A message from Colin Miller, President of the International Wood Products Association.
12 FRANK LLOYD WRIGHT CONTINUES TO INSPIRE | This esteemed architect’s Usonian Automatic Kalil House is a peaceful, contemplative retreat and inspiration for designers today.
16 THE JOURNEY OF RESPONSIBLE SOURCING | International wood products undergo a long journey before reaching North America, interacting with a variety of compliance laws that help ensure responsible sourcing.
18 MARINE TRENDS MERGE FORM AND FUNCTION | Yacht design in 2024 is moving forward, incorporating a blend of aesthetic appeal and functional innovation.
ON THE COVER:
On this exquisite deck balcony, the rich, deep tones of Ipe wood envelop the space in natural elegance, embodying the principles of quiet luxury by harmonizing the built environment with the breathtaking landscape beyond. Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, the builder has transformed this outdoor sanctuary into the homeowner's ultimate dream retreat, where nature and luxury coexist in perfect balance.
Photo courtesy of GMX Group
22 WOOD HAS AN IMPORTANT STORY TO TELL IN THE CIRCULAR ECONOMY | Follow a team of students as they design and build a structure based on principles of carbon minimalism, system minimalism, flexibility and adaptability, resilience, and living lab.
26 RESIDENTIAL TRENDS LEAD WITH QUIET LUXURY | 'Quiet Luxury' design features natural and sustainable materials, embracing a combination of classic and modern design elements.
34 GREEN BLUEPRINT: PUSHING THE BOUNDARIES OF SUSTAINABLE DESIGN WITH MALAYSIAN TIMBER | The next generation of Malaysian design professionals are thinking creatively and using diverse strategies to push the boundaries of sustainable design.
38 RECREATIONAL VEHICLES INNOVATING FOR THE FUTURE | A shifting demographic is leading to innovation and new trends to meet a broader shift in consumer priorities toward a more flexible, comfortable, and environmentally responsible RVs.
44 INTERNATIONAL WOODS CONTINUE TO SHINE IN OUTDOOR COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS | Myrtle Beach Boardwalk SkyWheel was renovated using exterior planking for superior beauty and durability.
48 2024 WOOD FLOOR OF THE YEAR AWARD WINNERS PUSH THE BOUNDARIES OF THEIR ART | Whether it’s innovative technology, new methods or materials, design trends, or consumer expectations, top companies are not afraid to push the boundaries of their art.
52 ALL DECKED OUT | The 2023 NADRA Deck Design Competition showcases innovative designs and craftsmanship in decking, these decks add outdoor living space paired with homeowner needs.
HARDWOOD FOREST GROWS BY
THE SIZE OF A FOOTBALL FIELD
Our unique, online interactive map uses published US Forest Service data to show national and regional distribution, growth and removal information for most of the main commercial American hardwood species
INTERNATIONAL WOOD
IWPA OFFICERS
PRESIDENT: Colin Miller
CLARKE VENEERS AND PLYWOOD
VICE-PRESIDENT Bryan Courtney GENESIS PRODUCTS INC.
TREASURER Colin Hotalen
REX LUMBER COMPANY
IMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENT Jordan McIlvain ALAN MCILVAIN COMPANY
IWPA STAFF
Ashley Amidon, CAE
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Joe O’Donnell DIRECTOR, GOVERNMENT & PUBLIC AFFAIRS
Welcome to the 21st edition of the International Wood Products Association’s (IWPA) annual International Wood Magazine & Buyers Guide. In this year’s remarkable edition, readers will see how the most traditional material of all— wood—is at the heart of so many modern design trends. As human beings, wood echoes and reinforces our connection with the natural world. It comes as no surprise, therefore, that we continue to incorporate it into our built environment at home, at work, and at play.
It is important for readers to understand that sourcing decisions can have real impact, supporting the economic health of communities in North America and around the globe that rely on forestry for their livelihoods. Forests can only continue standing when they benefit the communities around them through sustainable trade.
As you make your way through this beautiful magazine— whether in print or in our enhanced online edition that offers even more interactive content— you will see that it was designed to serve as the definitive wood sourcing tool for designers, specifiers, and manufacturers interested in discovering and using wood products from around the world. I hope you’ll consider reaching out directly to the highlighted suppliers or some of the many experts from our Buyers Guide. These industry leaders will be glad to share a wealth of additional information about why particular products have been specified, and help you select just the right materials for your project.
International Wood isn’t only about highlighting beautiful projects and materials; at its core, it’s a tool our association uses to advance our mission: to build acceptance and demand in North America for globally sourced wood products from sustainably managed forests. More than that, it is a celebration of a truly green building material that is both beautiful and renewable. If you’d like more information on our association—whether our educational offerings or our Convention, held March 26-28th, 2025 in New Orleans—you can go to our website at www.iwpawood.org. We encourage you to take advantage of the resources there, as well as the Buyers Guide at the back of the magazine for any questions you might have.
As IWPA’s President, I would like to thank IWPA’s members, Board of Directors, and staff for all they continue to do to help our association serve members and grow our industry. If you have any questions about globally sourced wood products or how our association and its members can help you select the highest quality wood products, please reach out today!
Copyright @2024 International Wood Magazine and Buyer’s Guide is produced annually by the International Wood Products Association (IWPA). Please direct all advertising, circulation, and subscription questions to IWPA.
Famed American architect Frank Lloyd Wright coined the word “Usonia” to encompass his vision for the American architectural landscape.
FRANK LLOYD WRIGHT’S USONIAN AUTOMATIC KALIL HOUSE
In architectural vernacular, "Usonian" refers to a group of approximately 60 middleincome family homes designed by Frank Lloyd Wright beginning in 1934. Usonian homes were typically small, singlestory dwellings characterized by having no attics, basements, or garages and little ornamentation. The homes had low rooflines, tall windows, built-in furnishings, in-floor radiant heating, and a sense of flow between the rooms. The use of native materials like wood, brick, and concrete were prominently featured and left unpainted to express their natural color, texture, and character.
Usonian homes are typically nestled into their surrounding landscapes, and a strong visual connection between interior and exterior spaces is a hallmark of the design style. As with all Frank Lloyd Wright homes, natural materials were harnessed to create an organic aesthetic and define the sense of place.
Wright designed each of his Usonian homes for specific clients, working with each family and naming the homes after them. In the 1950s, Wright designed a series of seven prefabricated homes that he called Usonian Automatics, made using interlocking concrete blocks. Wright termed the style “automatic” because he intended the homes to be easily and quickly built.
One famous Usonian Automatic house is the Kalil House in Manchester, New Hampshire. Built in 1955, this rare mid-century modern gem is remarkably well preserved and notable for its distinctive interior cladding and the 350 concrete-framed clerestory windows allowing natural light to pour into the lounge, allowing the sunlight to highlight the use of wood within. Dr. Toufic Kalil and his wife Mildred commissioned the home, which is modular in
design and construction, and has retained most of its original furnishings and fixtures.
Inside the Kalil house, voluminous wood panels line the walls of the lounge area, the hallway, the bedroom and the bathroom, adding warmth, vibrancy and character to the home’s interior. Other design techniques, such as contrasting narrow and wide spaces and the play of light and shadow, complement the wood and enliven the 1,380 square-foot, two-bedroom structure.
When this home was built, this wood was called by the tradename Philippine Mahogany, a term that referred to several wood species coming from the Southeast Asian region, however it is not in a botanical sense a true mahogany, but rather Meranti wood. The wood on the walls adds to the overall timeless aesthetic of the house.
The Kalil House contains approximately 48,000 individually cast concrete blocks making up its walls and ceiling. While the concrete gives the home a sturdy physical profile, it is offset in the home’s interior by the Meranti-paneled walls and the artfully designed wooden fixtures and furniture, including original Wright-designed built-in and standalone chairs, stools, bed platforms, lamps and tables. A colorful Cherokee Red scored concrete flooring with radiant heating complements unique wood accents, including paneled shower stalls, beds, built-in cabinetry, shelves, desks, bureaus, and closet systems.
JANKA HARDNESS SCALE: Varies from 700 lbf to 1,600 lbf, depending on species.
Some wood species use trade names and those can change over time. Philippine mahogany is one example of this. This tradename was used in the past, despite the fact the wood is not close to being a mahogany, botanically speaking, and comes from an entirely different part of the world. Today’s tradename for that same wood is meranti.
Meranti is an abundant hardwood native to Southeast Asia that is favored by woodworkers, carpenters, and artists due to its ease of use with both hand and power tools. Meranti presents in a range of stunning colors and usually has a coarse texture and straight to interlocked grain. The wood is easy to cut, sand, plane, glue, nail, and stain, and it can be finished or stained to enhance or modify its natural hue. In finished applications, meranti could be mistaken for mahogany.
The five main groupings for Philippine mahogany / meranti / lauan are: light red meranti, dark red meranti, white meranti, yellow meranti, and balau. There is an abundance of variety between the difference species, each with different working properties, appearances, and mechanical strength values.
Meranti wood is a good choice for many indoor applications, as it is relatively stable and not prone to warping or shrinking. The soft fiber structure of the wood can make it vulnerable to water damage unless appropriate finishes are applied. For outdoor applications, factors such as moisture, insect damage, and UV exposure can affect its durability.
Celebrating Over 50 Years of Service
Since 1967 Swaner Hardwood is committed to providing superior-quality products, personalized service, and great value to our loyal customers.
In 2019 The Currier Museum of Art, located in Manchester and also owner of the nearby Wright-designed Zimmerman House, acquired the Kalil House. Both homes were built in the 1950s when Wright’s approach to architecture was dramatically reshaping American home design. They are the only Wright buildings open to the public in New England.
“Frank Lloyd Wright intended his Usonian designs to be affordable to the broader American public, but each is a distinctive work of art,” said Currier Museum Director Alan Chong. “The [Kalil] home, with its interior lined with mahogany, is in exceptionally good shape. All of the original furniture [designed by Wright] is there, which is a great rarity,” he added.
Usonian houses reflected Wright's recognition of the transformation of domestic life that occurred during the 20th century. Spatially and in their construction, the Usonian houses represented a new model for independent living and established a novel style for suburban design that influenced countless postwar developers. Wright’s philosophy of organic architecture, incorporating buildings into their natural surroundings, continues to influence trends today. Architects continue to find inspiration in his novel combinations of natural material like wood with man-made materials such as concrete. His designs were boldly original and designed in harmony with humanity and the environment. IW
T THE JOURNEY OF RESPONSIBLE SOURCING
HOW COMPLIANCE IS WOVEN THROUGHOUT THE SUPPLY CHAIN
PORT OF EXPORT
Exporters must obtain export permits before wood products are loaded on a cargo ship to be transported abroad. Depending on the product and source country, environmental, legal, and safety certifications may also be required prior to shipment.
PORT OF ENTRY
Customs officials at the port of entry conduct inspections of the incoming cargo to ensure that it matches what was declared on the relevant paperwork, all necessary permits have been obtained, duties have been paid, and the product is safe for entry.
ake a moment to look around you. Chances are you are surrounded by products that utilize wood sourced from around the world. The wood flooring in your house may consist of a North American Oak veneer affixed to a Vietnamese Eucalyptus platform. The comfortable chair you’re sitting in may have beautifully carved legs made from solid Mahogany grown on plantation land in Fiji. Woods from around the world offer different aesthetic and performance properties than woods grown in North America. Thus, a long and intricate supply chain brings these products from the forest to you.
How can you be confident that these products have been sourced responsibly? Thankfully local, national, and international legal and regulatory requirements, paired with an industry focused on compliance and sustainability, instill confidence that your purchases can support healthy forests around the world.
DISTRIBUTION WAREHOUSE
Once the cargo has been approved and clears customs at the port of entry, it is transported to a warehouse where it is sorted and safely inventoried for distribution. In the case of hardwood lumber and veneer, this sorting can take into account the species, quality, appearance, and structural characteristics of the wood.
FOREST
Concession holders at the point of harvest must maintain long-term forest management plans, as well as various authorizations like logging and transportation permits. Many concessions are small, indigenous, or family-owned businesses that depend on sustainable forest management to ensure long-term viability.
MILL
North American importers use tools such as supplier questionnaires, site visits, and periodic audits to name just a few to ensure overseas producers are complying with relevant laws and regulations. Depending on the country and concession, paperwork is created and travels digitally alongside the logs through the supply chain, tracking its origin and legality.
FACTORY
U.S. industries such as homebuilding and remodeling, furniture manufacturing, cabinetmaking, RV production, boatbuilding, musical instrument production, and others combine domestic and internationally sourced wood products to create beautiful and innovative products and environments that could never exist without imported wood.
AT HOME, WORK, AND PLAY
No matter where you live, work, or relax, wood is everywhere. IWPA members are proud to supply wood materials from around the world to help create beautiful and useful products from sustainably managed forests.
THE LACEY ACT is a U.S. law that since 2008 has prohibited the illegal trade in plant and plant products. It is not permitted to trade in products taken in violation of any U.S., state or foreign laws. For more information, go to iwpawood.org.
MARINE TRENDS MERGE FORM AND FUNCTION
Yacht design in 2024 is moving forward, incorporating a blend of aesthetic appeal and functional innovation. Small spaces necessitate multi-purpose areas that can be transformed according to need and are becoming a hallmark of modern yacht design. Planning every inch of space is important. One space that transforms from quiet lounge to a lively entertainment zone, while reflecting the boat’s owner, is the future of yachting.
THE TRIPLE “S” 72' SCARBOROUGH SPORT FISHING YACHT MERGES FORM AND FUNCTION AT EVERY TURN
Todd Smith, Owner of the Triple “S” 72' Scarborough Sport Fishing Yacht, describes himself as a wood guy. “As a custom homebuilder, I am passionate about wood,” he said. “When I started thinking about this boat, I knew exactly what I wanted in the way of wood. I picked out every lot and every sheet. I just love the intricacies of wood: the grain and depth, coloring, smell, texture, figuring. I can just sit and look at it. It is like a piece of art to me.”
Smith’s boat, the Triple “S,” is a custom luxury watercraft built by Scarborough Boatworks of Wanchese, North Carolina. “Every boat we build is custom designed and built to the client’s specifications,” said Owner Ricky Scarborough, Jr. “We start with a blank sheet of paper. The
customer tells us what they want, and we bring it to life. It’s about a relationship with the person as much as the boat.”
The Triple “S” was built around a pair of Caterpillar 2400 horsepower engines that can push a large boat up to 43 knots. “The engine and Todd’s desire for a greater range of travel initially drove the project,” Scarborough said. “The interior was tailored to fit his personal preferences and specifications, and Todd and his wife, Shelly, actually went to the Impulse Trading Company yard and selected all the wood themselves.”
“Todd and Shelly drove the wood selection process,” said Jack King, Impulse Trading Company’s Sales & Purchasing Manager. In addition to teak and teak veneer, which are traditional woods for use in nautical applications, they chose Carpathian elm burl for accents in the boat’s interior. “They chose a different grain pattern for every room and selected the burl faces for the doors, tables and accent areas. Besides just the colors and grains, they looked at the
symmetry of the knuckles, knots and burls of each piece. They really picked out some stunning pieces, and I think they totally enjoyed doing it,” King said.
The Triple “S” boasts four staterooms, four heads, a rod room, laundry, pantry and electrical room. All interior surfaces are finished to a high gloss. “This is the only totally high gloss interior we’ve ever done,” said Scarborough. “All horizontal and vertical surfaces were hand polished to bring out the depth of the wood and accentuate the graining of each individual piece. It was extremely labor intensive, but the results are amazing.”
Unique to the Triple “S” design is a salon head accessible to the cockpit, where it is convenient and safe for those who are fishing. Inside, even the vessel’s tackle room is a showpiece. It’s a stateroom-sized full gloss wood paneled room for storing rods and reels.
“Boatbuilding is my form of art,” Scarborough said. “Every owner has their own style and desires, and we bring
“WOOD
IS A NATURAL GOD-GIVEN MATERIAL. ITS VARIATIONS ARE PART OF ITS CHARM. WE DON’T USE STAIN, AND WE ARE NOT TRYING TO MAKE THE SURFACES ALL LOOK THE SAME BUT RATHER BRING OUT THEIR NATURAL ESSENCE. I'VE WORKED SOLELY WITH MARINE WOODS FOR OVER 30 YEARS. THESE BEAUTIFUL WOODS SHOW OFF ENDLESS COLORS, PATTERNS AND VARIATIONS. IT’S LIKE FORREST GUMP AND HIS BOX OF CHOCOLATES: THERE’S WHITE CHOCOLATE, GOLDEN CARAMEL, DARK CHOCOLATE, AND EVERYTHING IN BETWEEN.”
RICKY SCARBOROUGH, JR.
their thoughts and dreams to life. That’s pretty cool, I think.”
Scarborough Boatworks was founded in 1977 by Ricky Scarborough, Sr. Ricky Jr. started at the firm in 1993 and apprenticed under his father until his dad’s retirement in 2010. Today, Ricky Jr. carries on the proud tradition of Carolina boatbuilding, balancing form, function, beauty and seaworthiness in every boat. He has completed more than 80 custom projects from 25′ to 85′. Scarborough Boatworks is North Carolina’s longest operating boat building company. IW
SPOTLIGHT ON: CARPATHIAN ELM / ENGLISH ELM
SPECIES: Ulmus procera
ORIGIN: Carpathian Mountains Western Europe
COMMON APPLICATIONS: Boxes, baskets, furniture, hockey sticks, veneer, archery bows.
CHARACTERISTICS / APPEARANCE: The color varies from a reddish-brown heartwood to a pale pink with olive toned sapwood. The wood often has a wild interlocked grain with feathery lines between the growth rings, resulting in unique texture and character marks. Elm wood is strong and durable and is resistant to water. It glues, stains, and finishes well, responding well to steam bending.
JANKA HARDNESS SCALE: 810 lbf
COMMENTS: At one time an important lumber species, Dutch elm disease greatly reduced this supply. Remaining wood is now mostly highly sought after as veneer. Burls of English elm is frequently referred to as Carpathian elm burl, with burled features creating high levels of unique figuring. Although most often found in wood veneer sheet form now, over its 1000+ year history English elm was used for decorative turnings, boats, furniture, boxes, wooden water pipes, coffins, and flooring
WOOD HAS AN IMPORTANT STORY TO TELL IN THE CIRCULAR ECONOMY
Following the principles of a circular economy, a team of students from the University of British Columbia designed and built a nearzero embodied carbon building using acetylated Accoya® Wood, hempcrete, and lightwood framing as primary materials.
Acircular economy is a system that preserves resources by reusing and repurposing existing products and the materials used in making them rather than manufacturing and consuming new ones. In a circular economy, value is placed on the “embodied carbon” in products, which encompasses the mining, extraction, processing and transportation of building materials. The aim of this process is to be regenerative, to eliminate waste, and to proactively reduce the ecological and environmental impact of industries at the outset, rather than addressing the consequences of their practices.
The defining principles of a circular economy are:
• Designing out waste and pollution
• Maintaining products in service as long as possible
• Regenerating natural systems
Third Space Commons is a design-build project on the Vancouver campus of the University of British Columbia (UBC) that was completed in 2023. The project was led by Third Quadrant Design, a group of 60 students from the UBC faculties of Applied Science and the Sauder School of Business. The students designed Third Space based on principles of carbon minimalism, system minimalism, flexibility and adaptability, resilience, and living lab. The model places carbon, not energy, at the forefront. Every aspect of the 2,400 square foot project, from the material components to the building methods, was chosen to decrease and/or capture carbon emissions.
“We wanted to focus on using wood first structurally wherever possible,” said Katie Theall, the project’s Architectural Lead and Co-captain of the UBC Third Quadrant design team. “Our goal was to use low-embodied carbon products within structural and safety limitations. As a biogenic material, wood was at the forefront of our decision-making processes and at the heart of the building’s structural system.”
Grey Accoya, an acetylated wood product distributed by UCS Forest Group, was selected for the building’s cladding and decking. To produce Accoya, radiata pine lumber undergoes a process known as acetylation. Acetylation is a non-toxic and permanent process that modifies the balance of two naturally occurring molecular groups in wood, causing it to no longer respond to interaction with water. Therefore, Accoya does not rot, warp, splinter, swell, shrink, or provide a food source for wood boring insects. The acetylation technology isn’t new but has only
been commercially viable and available since around 2007.
“The UBC student team considered other options, but their primary focus on sustainability, design aesthetics and resilience made Accoya the clear choice,” said Matt Mumford, Director of Group Specifications for UCS Forest Group. Sourced from sustainable forests, Accoya is a carbon sink that increases biomass. With a low total lifetime carbon cost, Accoya actively contributes to a circular, bio-based economy.
“Radiata pine is a fast-growing softwood, harvestable within 28 years. It is Class 1 Durable and will outperform both exotic hardwoods and all other modified wood products. Accoya really is the industry benchmark when it comes to performance and sustainability,” Mumford stated. Certified by the FSC and Cradle to Cradle Gold certified, it is one of only a few building materials in the world to achieve C2C Gold certification. Accoya is certified Platinum for Material Health and has a Declare label awarded by the International Living Future Institute.
The flooring in Third Space Commons was surplus white oak engineered flooring left over from another project. Wherever structurally possible, the team utilized light wood framing. To further minimize the building’s carbon footprint, they sought out deconstructed wood and reused materials destined for landfills from other construction sites in Vancouver, including windows, solar panels, appliances, and lumber
Third Space Commons uses hempcrete, a product that consists of lime and hemp fibers, as thermal insulation. Not only does hempcrete sequester carbon during its growth cycle,
“THE PROJECT REPRESENTED AN OPPORTUNITY TO TEST THE BOUNDARIES OF WHAT IS POSSIBLE WITH A FOCUS ON CARBON EMISSIONS, ENERGY USAGE, AND SUSTAINABILITY.”
MATT MUMFORD
but it also sequesters carbon during the curing process. Thus, as the building dries, it constantly sucks carbon into the walls and continues to do so for 40 to 50 years, creating a positive environmental effect.
Additional sustainable elements incorporated into the design of Third Space Commons included a raised helical steel pile foundation, natural ventilation, daylighting, rainwater capture, and seismic design.
With Third Space Commons, Third Quadrant Design was able to produce up to 80 percent fewer carbon emissions than if they had used conventional building methods and materials. As a result, the team received the B.C. Embodied Carbon Award 2023 for Small Building Construction from the Carob Leadership Forum (CLF) British Columbia.
The project also placed third overall in the 2023 U.S. Department of Energy’s Solar Decathlon Build Challenge and earned first place in several categories including Embodied Environmental Impact. Third Space will now serve as an institutional building for the Applied Science teams at UBC to further research sustainable design and construction methods and materials.
“The industry partners involved in this project include prominent North American architectural firms, builders, and developers who are all acutely aware of the impact our built environment has on climate change,” noted UCS Forest Group’s
Mumford. “The project represented an opportunity to test the boundaries of what is possible with a focus on carbon emissions, energy usage, and sustainability. It was also a great opportunity to work with and learn from the next generation of project managers, architects and engineers.”
“For us, as students, it was an amazing opportunity to really engage in a hands-on way and see a concept through all its stages from beginning to end. That’s something you cannot usually do at the beginning of your career,” Theall said.
Ben Rener, a member of the student team, noted that strong leadership is needed to adopt a new approach to sustainability and that students can be a driving force for adoption of circular economic practices. “We learned throughout this process that it is important to challenge common understandings on how our spaces are designed, built, and used,” said Rener. “We hope this project has inspired the community to test norms and push the limits of sustainability.”
Wood clearly has an important story to tell in the circular economy. Design thought leaders note that LEED has played a role, as has growing consumer awareness, in pushing the industry towards circular economic thinking and development. The construction of Third Space Commons, a high-performance building, illustrates the potential of green building innovation and will live on as a living laboratory, a research opportunity to obtain solid data on innovative materials and building practices. IW
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Building Envelope
RESIDENTIAL TRENDS LEAD WITH QUIET LUXURY
Current interior design trends are emphasizing ‘‘quiet luxury.’’ This aesthetic celebrates the art of subtle sophistication, elevating spaces through understated elegance, comfort, and a connection to nature. It's a relaxed version of minimalism, valuing quality over quantity and experience over stuff. The goal is to create spaces that are both refined and visually interesting, exuding effortless sophistication without extravagance.
Quiet luxury interiors feature natural and sustainable materials, embracing a combination of classic and modern design elements. Natural high-quality materials like international woods can be used to create these serene and calming spaces.
The modern luxury kitchen is expanding beyond its conventional boundaries. No longer just a culinary space but a multifunctional hub of activity, this evolution reflects a desire for functionality and social interaction. The inclusion of back kitchens, wet bars, pantries, and dedicated wine storage areas speaks to a changing lifestyle where the kitchen is designed to be a central gathering point.
LUXURY KITCHEN
PHOTO BY KYLA CHAMBERS, COURTESY OF METROPOLITAN FLOORS
The natural beauty and warmth of wood, combined with its strength and resilience, make it ideal for all kinds of uses within the home. Organic wood and stone surfaces also echo the natural world, effectively grounding the space in it’s environment. Moreover, they offer a tactile and visual backdrop that synthetic materials simply cannot replicate.
Quiet luxury signifies a refined approach to interior design, prioritizing sleeker aesthetics and authentic materials. It’s about creating spaces that seamlessly blend comfort and functionality with a sense of opulence. Every element is thoughtfully curated for visual appeal, while maintaining practicality. No longer about lavish finishes, design is more focused on reflecting spaces that are personal and meaningful, that act as a perfect backdrop for how you experience life.
Quiet luxury is all about living in beautiful places that don't feel overdone. Wood’s warm and tactile nature ensures it enhances any quiet luxury space. Less a trend and more a classic approach to design that will remain in style for years to come.
These materials infuse spaces with tactile warmth and a connection to the natural world, enhancing the overall sense of tranquility. Furthermore, natural materials are often tied to being high quality.
QUIET LUXURY RELIES ON ELEVATED SIMPLICITY, ESTABLISHING A SPACE THAT IS BOTH REFINED AND VISUALLY INTERESTING. THINK NATURAL AND HIGH-QUALITY MATERIALS, CLEAN LINES, AND TIMELESS STYLES. M
ARTISANAL & HANDCRAFTED PIECES
Sourcing special one-of-a-kind artisan crafted pieces for unexpected places in a home is an understated way to achieve this look. This handcrafted mantel made of tigerwood was created by Danny Schwalje of AVL Custom Made. High quality craftsmanship and materials are a real mark of this aesthetic.
PHOTOS BY GABRIEL SWINNEY, COURTESY OF AVL CUSTOM MADE
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 29
INTEGRATED OUTDOOR LIVING
Establishing a greater connection between our homes and the natural environment is a cornerstone of quiet luxury. Allowing the outdoor space to be an expansion of the home by blurring the boundaries between inside and outside foster a seamless transition between spaces. Using woods safe for exterior application further infuse spaces with tactile warmth and a connection to the natural world, enhancing the overall sense of tranquility.
PHOTOS COURTESY OF GLOBAL TIMBER & INTERHOLCO AG
CONTINUED ON PAGE 32
SPOTLIGHT ON: TALI
SPECIES: Erythrophleum Ivorense
ORIGIN: Central and West Africa
COMMON APPLICATIONS: Outdoor applications, including decking, windows, boat docks, boardwalks and furniture, as well as exterior mouldings and flooring.
CHARACTERISTICS / APPEARANCE: The sapwood is yellowish white to pinkish white. The heartwood ranges from yellowish-brown to red brown, darkening on exposure and is clearly demarcated. The grain is highly interlocked, with a coarse texture. It is quite hard making it challenging to machine. The same qualities making this wood challenging are also what make it so desired – it’s extremely hard and dense with high durability and is stable with little movement in service.
JANKA HARDNESS SCALE: 2,920 lbf
COMMENTS: Tali has an appealing mahogany-like grain character and is suitable for exterior use, even untreated. It is a preferred decking choice in many European countries.
WOOD’S WARM AND TACTILE NATURE ENSURES IT ENHANCES ANY 'QUIET LUXURY' SPACE. M
FLUTED DETAILS AND ORGANIC MATERIALS
Fluting has emerged again as a way to add depth and richness to spaces, evoking history while simultaneously paving the path for modern trends in interior design. This revival acknowledges the enduring appeal of traditional craftsmanship while seamlessly integrating it into modern design sensibilities. Using organic materials like wood offer the perfect canvas for these beautiful details.
PHOTOS COURTESY OF GMX GROUP
GREEN BLUEPRINT:
PUSHING THE BOUNDARIES OF SUSTAINABLE DESIGN WITH MALAYSIAN TIMBER
I
n Malaysia, a greater emphasis has emerged in architectural and interior design trends to create sustainable spaces. The next generation of design professionals are thinking creatively and using diverse strategies to push the boundaries of sustainable design.
This may include reimagining established spaces to renovate rather than rebuild or to manufacture new items from old building materials. Architects and designers are also adopting sustainable building practices emphasizing a lower carbon footprint and using more natural materials in design. Many international woods are a perfect fit for this moment.
The next generation of Malaysian designers are working hard to create beauty and sustainability in new and innovative ways.
GIVING NEW LIFE TO OLD WOOD
Often utilizing reclaimed timber, Hani Ali established LAIN Furniture in 2012 to craft bespoke furniture and homewares that draw from Malaysia’s rich culture and heritage. Each of
SPOTLIGHT ON: MERBAU
SPECIES: Intsia spp.
ORIGIN: East Africa to Southeast Asia, as well as Australia.
COMMON APPLICATIONS: Flooring, furniture, musical instruments, turned objects, and other specialty wood items.
CHARACTERISTICS / APPEARANCE: An orangish-brown color when first cut and ages to a darker reddish brown, the color is variable with some mineral deposits. It has a coarse texture, with straight to interlocked grain and a natural luster. Reported to glue and finish well, though can cause gumming and dulling of blades.
JANKA HARDNESS SCALE: 1,840 lbf
COMMENTS: With excellent strength characteristics and stability, it is ideally suited for wood flooring and other applications where strength is important.
her limited-edition pieces is crafted by hand and uniquely designed. For Ali, this isn’t just furniture but rather a work of art. She jokes, “there is nothing plain in ‘LAIN.’”
Ali works closely with clients to utilize materials removed from old homes during renovation, giving the wood new life and capturing family memories. Common wood types reused include trusses, doors, and windows, but the company gets more creative when the project calls for it. Ali recalls using over
1,000 pieces of herringbone flooring being removed from a home to create a stunning one-of-a-kind dining table made of kempas and merbau. The outer frame of the table was created from original house trusses that were removed. LAIN Furniture also utilizes local urban wood waste, removing the wood from the waste stream and creating furniture with a unique origin.
BRINGING THE NATURAL WORLD INSIDE
Tennyson Chia, Interior Designer and Founder of SACHI, specializes in crafting designs that are storytelling journeys
RIGHT: THE GLASS TOPPED TABLE IS SUPPORTED BY A CURVED BASE MADE FROM RECLAIMED TIMBERS PURCHASED THROUGH A LOCAL LUMBERYARD SPECIALIZING IN SELLING SECONDHAND WOOD. IT IS MADE OF RECLAIMED NYATOH AND BALAU.
RIGHT CENTER: OVER 1,000 PIECES OF OLD PARQUET FLOORING WERE SORTED AND LAID BY HAND TO CREATE THE TABLETOP. THE SOLID RECLAIMED WOOD EDGING IS FROM AN OLD HOUSE TRUSS.
while also embracing sustainable design strategies. Chia’s passion is to create more desirable spaces at work and home, while reducing the environmental impact and making a difference in our world.
This passion has led Chia to tackle a wide variety of projects. One such transformation was a 30-year-old building, where Chia created a workspace “that's both fun and functional,” bringing in natural materials, such as wood and plants throughout. Open office spaces and meeting areas throughout were designed to foster collaboration. A mix of natural materials were used, as well as a color palette meant to imitate nature.
Another award-winning recent design was the Hap Seng 3 Tower. An aesthetical and functional commercial building and an interior design masterpiece, this building earned GBI certification and LEED Gold Certification. Again, Chia pulled ideas from nature, explaining that an inspiration for the design came from taking a walk in the forest. A show-stopping design element of the building is the approximately 90-meter-high indoor vertical green wall within the internal atriums of the building that spans from the fifth floor to the 25th floor. Not only is the green wall one-of-a-kind, but the plants actively help to cool the building, reducing the energy needed to cool the building. IW
DESIGNING DIFFERENTLY REIMAGINING ESTABLISHED SPACES.
MAKING OLD BUILDING MATERIALS INTO SOMETHING NEW. WELCOMING FRESH DESIGN STRATEGIES FOR NEW CONSTRUCTION. UTILIZING MORE NATURAL MATERIALS. CHRIS GROSSO
ABOVE: THE INDOOR VERTICAL GREEN WALL INCORPORATES A SELF-SUSTAINING PLANTING SYSTEM WITH AUTOMATIC FILTRATION AND WATERING, AND TIMER-CONTROLLED UV GROWTH DAYLIGHT. THE WALL ACTIVELY COOLS THE TEMPERATURE OF THE BUILDING, REDUCING THE ENERGY NEEDED TO COOL THE BUILDING, WHILE ALSO PROVIDING CLEANER AIR.
ABOVE LEFT: WHEN RENOVATING A COMMERCIAL WORKPLACE, OPEN MEETING AREAS WERE ADDED THROUGHOUT TO FOSTER COLLABORATION. USING A COMBINATION OF TRANSPARENT WALLS, WARM WOOD PANELING AND WOOD FLOORING, OFTEN USING OAK, TO CREATE A CAFÉ-LIKE FEEL.
RECREATIONAL VEHICLES INNOVATING FOR THE FUTURE
According to the Recreational Vehicle Industry Association, about 10 percent of U.S. households own a recreational vehicle, with a steadily growing number of younger people buying their first RV. This shifting demographic has brought with it new preferences and unique needs that RV manufacturers and suppliers are responding to. The resulting trends meet a broader shift in consumer priorities toward a more flexible, comfortable, and environmentally responsible RV.
SUSTAINABILITY TRENDS ARE ON THE RISE
Sustainability has become a key focus in the RV industry, with manufacturers and consumers alike showing increased interest in green improvements to RVs offered on the market. Suppliers are meeting the consumer desire for more eco-friendly options and a minimized carbon footprint with options like solar panels, low-flow water systems, LED lighting and other customizations.
From the supply side, manufacturers are always exploring new materials that continue to decrease weight and environmental impact. There is one material already widely used in the manufacture of RVs that is renewable and captures carbon, and most don’t realize it’s there: wood.
WOOD ADDS HIDDEN SUSTAINABILITY AND PERFORMANCE INSIDE RVS
You don’t see most of the wood used in RVs because it’s encased on the inside. This hidden material is a renewable and sustainable material that is used in a variety of important ways when a RV is manufactured.
Oriented Strand Board (OSB) is often used in floors, slides, and roofs. Lumbercore veneer substrate is used for mouldings. International plywood is used for the interior of benches and bed platforms, as well as within the wall structure of the RV. Both laminated and solid wood may also be used for
RV Sidewall Cut-Away (Exploded View)
appearance grade interior applications, including cabinet faces, cabinet components, and built-in furniture. Yet standing in an RV, you’d never know all the places wood is hidden!
The wonderful thing about wood is that it is a renewable resource. Trees can be replanted and regrown, all while capturing and sequestering carbon, making plywood a more sustainable option compared to materials like steel or fiberglass, which are made from non-renewable resources.
Additionally, internationally traded wood products must comply with a variety of laws and regulations throughout the entire supply chain to ensure products are harvested legally (for more information see page 16).
PLYWOOD IS THE PAST & FUTURE
The RV industry has used imported wood plywood since the 1970s, prized for its strength, unique thin construction, and affordability. Use of plywood continues to grow as it forms an integral part of RV wall panel systems, all while providing versatility, strength, durability, and sustainability, not to mention it’s budget friendly.
“International plywood is a great material for the industry because you can get sheets that are thinner than
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 39
domestic plywood and enjoy the other benefits of these wood species as well,” says Brad Kaser, Sales Manager at NWH. “Plywood is a strong material, providing a structural role, while thinner sheets allow manufacturers to bend it for interior contours. This plywood is also stable and flat. So, it’s easy to laminate with fiberglass and aluminum for exterior walls, and with vinyl and other
materials for interiors,” he explained. “I’ve been in this business a long time and today’s plywood is an excellent material for the RV industry.”
As the next generation of RV owners shape design trends, wood helps ensure a sustainable, carbon neutral product to build RVs for generations yet to come.
Manufacturing has long valued the contribution of CNC technology (Computer Numerical Control). CNC machines reduce cost and human error, producing consistent parts while increasing production output.
Not only do CNC machines help create more intricate designs and produce more complex components with precise measurements, but those precise measurements mean less waste during manufacturing, helping to create a
greener product. Instead of supplying a flat sheet of plywood that is processed as the RV is built, specific plywood parts can be made.
“Adding more CNC capabilities has allowed NWH to better serve the RV industry,” explains Kaser. “When an RV manufacturer can order parts, instead of sheets of plywood, it changes their manufacturing. It helps RV makers to streamline ordering and helps them be leaner and more flexible, allowing them to meet a variety of consumer demands, while providing an affordable high-quality product.” IW
INTERNATIONAL WOODS CONTINUE TO SHINE IN OUTDOOR COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS
The Myrtle Beach Boardwalk & Promenade has a storied history that began with a simple wooden walkway built in the 1930s. The Boardwalk has undergone various enhancements through the years, and today the 1.2 mile promenade is lined with shops, restaurants and entertainment amenities, including the iconic SkyWheel gondola ride.
A$3.7 million renovation was completed at the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk and Promenade earlier this year. The project included replacing the 10-year-old southern yellow pine boardwalk. Some areas were replaced with composite planking and some with tropical hardwood decking. When it came to renovating the area around the SkyWheel gondola ride, Garapa wood was selected. This was chosen not only for its natural beauty, but also for the protection it offers from excess underfoot heat and its resistance to heavy traffic wear and tear, as well as its practicality, durability, and low-maintenance nature.
Another attribute that made Garapa a solid choice for the SkyWheel flooring application is that it is well-suited for areas with challenging weather conditions. Its natural density and resistance to moisture, decay, and insects make it a durable choice that can withstand the elements and maintain its integrity and appearance over time.
Coastal Forest Products supplied the Iron Woods branded Garapa decking for the SkyWheel project. “Garapa was the perfect choice for this project,” said Wes Robichaud, Iron Woods Sales Manager. “It combines Class 1 durability, a Class A fire rating, and a beautiful honey gold color which enhances the ribbon graining that glows in the sun. Eventually the Garapa will age to a light silver patina, but the
dramatic grain variation will continue to shine in a way that only Iron Woods Garapa can,” he added.
The SkyWheel is a 200-foot observation wheel consisting of 42 glass-enclosed, climate-controlled gondolas located at the Boardwalk, just a short walk from the beach. A ride on the SkyWheel offers breathtaking views of the beach line, the boardwalk, and the ocean by day, the sunset at dusk, and the skyline at night.
Garapa, known for its practicality, durability, and eco-friendly attributes, has long been prized as a functional and appealing choice for outdoor applications that experience heavy foot traffic and challenging weather conditions. Its high density and natural hardness contribute to its strength, and its attributes will enable it to withstand the heavy foot traffic and the tests of time and weather at Myrtle Beach for many years to come. IW
SPOTLIGHT ON: GARAPA / BRAZILIAN ASH
SPECIES: Apuleia leiocarpa
ORIGIN: South America
COMMON APPLICATIONS: Exterior joinery, flooring, stairs, decking, dock and boatbuilding.
CHARACTERISTICS / APPEARANCE: Garapa is a fine-grained wood with a light yellow to warm golden brown hue and darkens with age. It has a fine straight-grained, interlocked medium texture. This wood is fairly easy to work, despite its density. It glues easily and is very stable once glued. It saws, nails, and screws well with little to no blunting effect on tools.
JANKA HARDNESS SCALE: 1,650
COMMENTS: Garapa is naturally water-resistant, less vulnerable to insects, rot and decay. With an excellent durability and a high resistance to daily wear, it has a long lifespan of 25 years or more. Garapa also features a Class A fire rating.
Since 1946, Rex Lumber Company has serviced the hardwood industry utilizing sound forestry practices. We carefully manage and monitor our South American and African import operations to ensure that our extensive tropical lumber inventory meets Lacey Act standards. Our four locations feature dedicated and knowledgeable salespeople ready to assist you.
Flooring Design Winners PUSH THE BOUNDARIES OF THEIR ART
Whether it’s innovative technology, new methods or materials, design trends, consumer expectations, or changes in the business landscape, top companies are not afraid to push the boundaries of their art. These 2024 National Wood Flooring Association Wood Floor of the Year (WFOY) awardees are great examples.
WALKING ON A BLUE WAVE
The 2024 Wood Floor of the Year winning project in the Best in Colors, Finishes, and Textured Wood category integrates depth and color, using layers of blue dye to give the illusion of blue waves gliding across the floor.
Matthew Szyszka, Principal of Floor Master Company based in Chicago, Illinois, designed this floor for the family room of his own home. “I told myself this is my space and there are no limitations to what I can do. I’m going to create something unique, something that expresses my vision and uses my favorite techniques.”
The floor features blue-hued panels made of quartersawn white oak in a basketweave pattern, punctuated by squares of American black walnut inlaid with bubinga and wenge detailing. The 380-square-foot floor is framed with an intricate border inspired by an ancient Greek design. Each of the 103 embedded walnut squares is banded by thin maple strips, which contrast and make the squares pop. A key to the unique beauty of the Blue Wave floor is Szyszka’s use of the beveled French bleed technique, which adds depth and dimension to the squares and accentuates the pattern.
Light plays a huge role in the floor’s refractive effect. “It changes every time you look at it, and that’s due to the color contrast, the layering, and the hand-scraped bevel technique that highlights each element,” Szyszka explained. Szyszka achieved a
multi-tone blue color that evolves with changing light conditions using a reactive stain finished with a hardwax oil.
The floor’s perimeter consists of more than 2,600 hand-cut elements arranged to form three intertwining lines. The perimeter was one of the most challenging parts of the piece, according to Szyszka. “The original design concept involved circles and ovals, but it did not complement the symmetric floor and brick fireplace, so I modified it to align with the room design. It’s still a Greek pattern but it’s my own custom vision.”
Szyszka acknowledges that a blue floor is unusual and that his wife was a bit dubious about the idea at first. “But she loves
SPOTLIGHT ON: BUBINGA
SPECIES: Guibourtia spp.
ORIGIN: Africa
COMMON APPLICATIONS: Veneers, fine furniture, cabinets, paneling, furniture inlays, turnings, knife handles and small craft goods such as jewelry.
CHARACTERISTICS / APPEARANCE: Sapwood is very pale with clear demarcations. Heartwood can be a variety of colors, including pink, vivid red or red-brown with purple veining. Straight or interlocked grain and a fine, even texture. Bubinga is often seen with a variety of unique figure.
JANKA HARDNESS SCALE: 2,410 lbf
COMMENTS: Bubinga is a very dense, very hard and heavy wood, with an exceptional strength-to-weight ratio, bending strength and shock resistance. It can be easily worked with both hand and machine tools and also turns and finishes well. Gluing can occasionally be problematic because of the natural oils found in this wood. These natural oils make bubinga a durable wood for both exterior and interior uses.
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it now,” he said. “The floor reflects myself in that I am willing to push the boundaries of my art.”
Szyszka garnered his third WFOY award with his stunning Blue Wave this year. “It’s about creating unique, timeless works of art,” he said. “We don’t do it for the awards, but it is an honor to be recognized by peers in the industry.”
Entries in the Best in Colors, Finishes, and Textured Wood category utilize various types of dyes, reactive conditioners, layered color systems, faux finishing, or other finishing systems, as well as textured wood flooring surfaces such as handscraped, wire-brushed, distressed, sculpted, or any surface that is not traditionally flat.
The 2024 Wood Floor of the Year winning project in the Best Use of Technology category went once again this year to Czar Floors for a spectacular bespoke residential installation.
This eye-popping floor features a curved border and forms an elegant oval within the home’s 800-square-foot great room. The room itself was complex with its distinctive oval shape and
SPOTLIGHT ON: WENGE
SPECIES: Millettia laurentii
ORIGIN: Central Africa
COMMON APPLICATIONS: Veneer, paneling, furniture, turnings, exterior applications, and musical instruments.
CHARACTERISTICS / APPEARANCE: The heartwood is medium brown, sometimes with a reddish or yellowish hue, and clearly demarcated sapwood. The wood is straight grained, with a very coarse texture and a low natural luster. This wood can be difficult to work and glue. It is also very splintery. It sands unevenly due to differences in density between light and dark areas. It holds nail and screws well if pre-bored and finishes well.
JANKA HARDNESS SCALE: 1,930 lbf
COMMENTS: This popular African hardwood has excellent strength and hardness properties, though it’s more frequently used for the rich dark brown color, which can be dark enough to be used as a substitute for ebony. Upon application of a wood finish the wood can become nearly black. Interestingly, unlike most other dark hardwoods, the heartwood of wenge can lighten (rather than darken) when exposed to sunlight.
columns,” explained Edward Tsvilik, Co-founder of Pennsylvaniabased Czar Floors, “and the floor presented several unique challenges such as scaling the border design and integrating it seamlessly with the room’s contours.”
The selection of material for the floor was driven by two factors. The first factor was the radiant heat emanating from the subfloor which dictated a need to use a very stable species. The other influencing factor was the client’s color specification for an exceptionally rich reddish color. Merbau was chosen for both its intense hue and its dimensional stability. Merbau’s straight grain is complemented in the design by rift sawn white oak strips with accents of hard maple and wenge.
For a floor of this complexity, the creative process begins with meticulous measurement,” Tsvilik said. The Czar Floors team used an industrial Leika 3D laser scanner to determine the exact shape and dimensions of the room. From these measurements, they derived an AutoCAD design, which was input into a CNC machine. A software program developed in-house by the Czar Floors engineers was used to cut the thousands of wood mosaic pieces. The software organizes a cut list to accurately and efficiently arrange the pieces, even down to wood orientation so the pieces are perfectly formed, and waste is reduced.
The next step is dry fitting all the pieces together manually. The crew laid out the entire floor, divided the pattern into segments, and labeled everything on a map. The pieces were then individually shrink wrapped, vacuum sealed, packed and shipped to the residence in New York, where the floor was again dry fitted together. At this stage, any tiny imperfections were
corrected to create a seamless surface, ready to be glued in place. The floor was then sanded and finished in situ. The process took about three months from start to finish.
“One of the keys to success at this level of artistry is expertise in using industrial tools such as the Leica 3D laser scanner. These precision tools have a steep learning curve,” Tsvilik noted. “It is also important to work with very experienced wood installers. Without their input, these museum-quality floors would not be possible. Number 1 is the client, and number 2 is wood installers who put their effort and expertise into the process. We work hand-inhand with the installers throughout the installation process.”
Czar Floors, a designer and producer of floor medallions, borders, custom inlay and decorative flooring, has long been a standout for innovative craftsmanship and design as well as technology innovation. “We are not afraid to take on challenges and risks. If we can’t do it, nobody can, so we have to try it,” Tsvilik stated. “I’ve lost count of the number of awards we have been given over the years, but it’s always rewarding to have other professionals recognize our work. IW
50 Years of Quality Products — Import & Export Products
• Importing high quality panel products to U.S. from around the globe.
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– All material quality inspected by our highly skilled on site staff.
– Ike Trading can cover your Import panel requirements from Coast to Coast with prompt product available from warehouses or direct delivery to your door.
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OUR FINE PRODUCTS:
OUR SALES CONTACTS: WEST COAST: Scott Bender: 541-515-8975 • scott.bender@iketrading.com
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RUSSIAN BIRCH SPECIALIST: Mike Benito: 503-975-6517 • michael.benito@arrow-forest.us
ALL DECKED OUT
The North American Deck and Railing Association (NADRA) recognizes and promotes excellence in the outdoor living & decking industry. Each year the organization celebrates and honors outstanding successes in the industry. The NADRA deck competition is open to professionals across North America and beyond, offering a platform to showcase innovative designs and craftsmanship. The competition features multiple categories, and winners gain industry recognition, marketing opportunities, and networking benefits.
The 1st place award in NADRA’s 2023 Wood Decks Under $25k competition went to Brendan Casey of Casey Fence & Deck for this striking Adamstown, Maryland deck remodel.
Casey’s client had an old, dilapidated wooden deck that badly needed a makeover. The homeowner was adamant that her deck be made of tropical hardwood rather than a composite product and, after considering several options, she chose Ipe.
Casey’s team designed a herringbone basketweave board pattern cut square at the ends that used shorter board lengths. This made the project more budget-friendly for the client while also showcasing a beautiful design. “By positioning the boards to radiate outward in two directions, it draws the eye away from the center of deck giving the illusion of a larger deck. It’s a tried-and-true design strategy,” explained Casey.
The curved front of the deck was not part of the original plan but was incorporated to soften the edges and open the view to the cascading garden area beneath the deck. The contoured steel railing contrasts with the dark decking without obstructing the view. Black round aluminum balusters further opened the view and 6×6 rail post sleeves added a nice complement, as did the Ipe cocktail rail.
Because the house was not originally designed with a deck tied into the structure to support a deck, the team constructed a beam underneath using Uc4b treated framing lumber, sourced from Fence and Deck Direct in Baltimore (now Decks & Docks). The Ipe decking, hardware and wax were all supplied by Advantage Lumber.
CASEY FENCE & DECK
CASEY FENCE & DECK
“THE
From the Forest to the Courtroom
BRENDAN CASEY
Decks by Kiefer is recognized as a premier builder of custom decks, deck and patio combos, multi-level and raised decks, as well as outdoor living/entertainment spaces with amenities such as kitchens, fireplaces, spas, and entertainment areas. Bob Kiefer draws on his experience as a landscape architect to design decks that blend seamlessly into the natural surroundings of the site.
Decks by Kiefer took home two NADRA awards last year, A 500-square-foot Ipe deck in Tewksbury, New Jersey, placed 1st in the Wood Decks $26k - $50k category. The deck was an extension of an existing porch overlooking a scenic wooded tract, and the homeowners wanted to be able to enjoy an unobstructed view of the area’s natural beauty. Kiefer created a contoured footprint and raised the front of the deck to bar height adding a
SPOTLIGHT ON: IPE
SPECIES: Handroanthus spp.
ORIGIN: Central and South America; also farmed commercially.
COMMON APPLICATIONS: Outdoor applications, including decking, doors, windows, boat docks, boardwalks and furniture, as well as fine furniture, flooring, turnings, and decorative veneers.
CHARACTERISTICS / APPEARANCE: Heartwood is typically olive-brown, with variations in color from a reddish-brown to a dark blackish brown. Sapwood is yellowish-white and easily distinguished. Grain varies from straight to irregular and sometimes interlocked. Ipe is a difficult wood to work with high cutting resistance during sawing and machining. It planes smoothly with tear out in interlocked areas. Ipe can be difficult to glue properly. Surface preparation prior to gluing is recommended. The same qualities making this wood challenging are also what make it so desired – it’s extremely hard and dense with high durability and shock resistance.
JANKA HARDNESS SCALE: 3,510 lbf
COMMENTS: Ipe is a wood of extremes – extremely dense and durable but as a result is difficult to work. Its incredible hardness and strength make it well suited to exterior decking and siding applications. If left unfinished, graying of the wood will occur, but it can last over 20 years outside without preservatives or additional treatments.
12” wide top rail in the curved section where the homeowners and their guests could enjoy a cup of coffee or glass of wine and take in the beauty of the vista.
“Ipe is the best decking product available, and we buy entire containers of FSC certified Ipe,” Kiefer said. To complement the Ipe decking, Kiefer used a thermally modified, laminated bamboo product known as aMbooo for the bar top. Kiefer Oil, a unique in-house product initially formulated as a bamboo finish, gives a glossy sheen and offers long-term protection to both the aMbooo surface and the hardwood decking.
Decks by Kiefer also took 2nd place in this year’s NADRA competition for Wood Decks Over $50k. This project came about during COVID when indoor gathering restrictions were in place.
“COVID was, in fact, a big driver for the decking business. Public health regulations meant that everything inside moved outside,” Kiefer explained.
The setting for this capacious Warren, New Jersey, outdoor living and entertainment area was a driver of the design. Due to its southerly orientation, it needed to be sheltered from the sun.
“A DECK NEEDS TO COMPLEMENT THE STRUCTURE AND ARCHITECTURAL STYLE OF HOUSE AND NOT LOOK LIKE AN ADDITION OR AN AFTERTHOUGHT. WE ALSO TAKE CARE TO INTEGRATE OUR DECKS INTO THE SURROUNDING LANDSCAPE TO CREATE A HOLISTIC PICTURE.”
BOB KIEFER
The homeowner also specified inclusion of an outdoor kitchen and bar, a fireplace, a TV viewing area, and a dining area. Kiefer’s solution was to design a covered veranda that shaded 80% of the 900-square-foot deck.
The structure’s arresting Ipe flooring sits on a conventionally treated lumber frame. Above it, a vaulted vented cupola shelters the seating area. The cupola was fashioned from Meranti Red Balau, giving it a look that evokes the rich beauty of mahogany and complements the Ipe floor underneath. A paddle fan within the cupola provides cooling ventilation and helps ward off pesky mosquitoes.
San Francisco-based SG Construction garnered the 3rd place award in NADRA’s Wood Decks Over $50K category. This spectacular deck was the centerpiece of an expansive undertaking to update and remodel an outdoor living space and provide a smooth transition from the home to the pool.
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 53
DECKS BY KIEFER
SG CONSTRUCTION
Peter Koenig Designs, a landscape architectural firm based in Alamo, California, was responsible for the overall design of this residential project. The deck work performed by SG Construction involved replacing an existing redwood deck, installing staircases down both sides of the deck, integrating the structure with surrounding infrastructure, and providing access to a newly installed pool.
“We wanted to make a visual statement that would integrate the four landing levels, an existing brick patio next to the house, an upper table area and the firepit area,” explained Scott Groschel, Owner of SG Construction.
The caliber of the project made Ipe the clear choice to replace the old redwood deck surface. The Ipe added warmth, elegance and cohesion to the various disparate elements, including an uneven brick walkway and upper brick patio area. “Ipe is one of the densest species on the planet, so it takes time and patience to work with it, but the results are so worth it,” Groschel said. In addition to the Ipe decking, other woods used in the project were pressure treated Douglas fir for the substructure, western red cedar for caps on the steel railing and redwood for the deck’s skirt. IW
“WHEN YOU BUILD DECKS, YOU ARE BUILDING THINGS THAT PEOPLE DREAM ABOUT. IT’S HARD WORK, BUT IT’S REWARDING. THERE IS ALWAYS ROOM TO GROW AND IMPROVE, NEW METHODS AND TECHNIQUES TO LEARN. THERE ARE OPPORTUNITIES TO BE CREATIVE WITH CURVES, ARCHES, AND DESIGN ELEMENTS, TO EXPRESS YOUR ART AND JUST DO REALLY COOL THINGS.”
SCOTT GROSCHEL
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BUYERS GUIDE
IWPA’s Membership Directory highlights the leading suppliers to the North American market of hardwood and softwood lumber, flooring, decking, veneer, plywood and composite wood products. This one-stop resource guide also provides contact information for ports, shipping companies, third-party certifiers and others that are helping to advance international trade in wood products.
Transportation, Logistics and other Service Providers
To search for more specific species, products or services, visit www.iwpawood.org
11Foundry LLC
Jackson, MS
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cmiller@11foundry.com www.11foundry.com
11Foundry provides technology and knowledge solutions for responsible business at every scale.
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310-988-1901 Darlington Veneer Co., Inc. www.darlingtonveneer.com
843-393-3861 Darlington, South Carolina rsmothers@darlingtonveneer.com
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Del Valle, Kahman & Company, Inc. www.dvkco.com
Buena Park, California ernie@dvkco.com
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Info@floridateak.com
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Forest City Trading Group LLC www.fctg.com/companies
Portland, Oregon greg.huntsinger@fctg.com
Frost Hardwood Lumber Co. www.frosthardwood.com
San Diego, California bfrost@frosthardwood.com
Ganahl Lumber www.ganahllumber.com
Anaheim, California deonndeford@ganahl.com
Genesis Products, Inc. www.genesisproductsinc.com
Niles, Michigan bryanc@genesisproductsinc.com
Goodfellow Inc. www.goodfellowinc.com
Campbellville, Toronto (Canada) anelson@goodfellowinc.com
