Humans have always made use of nature’s gifts. One of the fundamental resources we still obtain from the environment today is wood.
Wood – A True Story
Wood as a building material is inextricably linked with the history of civilization. Initially, it was used mainly for constructing houses. However, humanity’s growing need for comfort led to new ways of using this resource. The first pieces of furniture began to appear. At the outset, their functions were performed by items formed naturally from tree trunks or branches. But soon, people began to process wood in rudimentary ways. As new tools were developed, wooden furniture-making techniques evolved over the centuries, becoming ever more refined. Their forms changed, and the methods of joining and finishing became increasingly sophisticated. Sturdy wooden furniture was a sign of high social standing and prestige.
Furniture Production Today
These days, solid wood—processed in a particular way—is still commonly used in furniture production. Yet wood is also utilized in other forms, such as lamella or veneer, methods of refining furniture surfaces. To manufacture a more cost-effective product (for example, a furniture front or door), a layer of higher-quality wood is applied to the structural core. This technique gives the piece the appearance of being made from solid wood but eliminates some of the drawbacks. Because solid wood “breathes” and adjusts its moisture content to the environment, its dimensions and shape can change. These natural movements are not always desirable in furniture making.
The Difference Between Lamella and Veneer
The main difference between lamella and veneer lies in thickness. Lamella is thicker, allowing the surface of the furniture to undergo more frequent refinishing. Producers of layered floorboards—so-called barlinek planks—take advantage of this property. Today, wood has made a comeback in line with trends favoring the Scandinavian style, ecological solutions, and natural materials. Wood began to be used in interiors both in its raw, unfinished form and in more minimalist styles, paired with metal or glass. Nowadays, there are very few interiors without wooden elements. Moreover, the beneficial qualities of natural materials, which are people-friendly, add extra value. Wood is a resource that is visually appealing and “warm to the touch.” When you buy high-quality wooden furniture, you can be sure it will serve you for years, retaining its charm and gaining character over time. Fortunately, we now appreciate the worth of wooden furniture more and more. Many of us take pleasure in finding our grandmother’s old dresser in the attic, happily restoring it and placing it in our homes. Modern technology enables manufacturers to create equally durable and sturdy wooden furniture that, like those “grandmother’s” pieces, will delight future generations as well.
