Exotic Wood Highlights and How to Use Them
Exotic woods like teak, mango wood, and ipe add a touch of sophistication and natural beauty to any space. This guide explores how to incorporate these unique textures and grains into your home décor, and offers tips on caring for these durable and resistant materials.
Teak is a popular choice for outdoor furniture and decking because of its durability and resistance to water. Its warm color and unique grain also make it a great option for indoor furniture, such as tables and chairs. To care for teak wood, clean it regularly with mild soap and water and avoid placing it in direct sunlight.
Mango wood has a distinctive grain pattern with natural variations in color, making each piece of furniture unique. It's a sustainable option and can be used for tables, cabinets, and accent pieces like vases and bowls. It’s best to keep it away from heat sources and clean it with a damp cloth.
Ipe is a dense and hard-wearing wood that is perfect for decking and outdoor furniture. Its dark color and fine texture make it a great choice for modern designs. Caring for ipe wood means regularly with a mild detergent and applying a protective sealant to maintain its color and durability.
Zebrawood has a striking appearance, with bold stripes that resemble a zebra's pattern. It can be used for flooring, cabinetry, and decorative accents like wall panels and picture frames. It’s important to avoid exposing it to direct sunlight and to use a protective finish to prevent scratches and fading.
Padauk has a vibrant orange-red color that deepens with age, making it a popular choice for bowls, vases, flooring and furniture accents like drawer pulls and trims. It’s advised to keep it away from moisture and to use a protective finish to prevent fading.