Selecting the Right Wood

A Guide to Choosing the Perfect Wood for Every Space

At Union Home Design, we believe that selecting the right wood is essential to creating timeless interiors that reflect your unique style. With 20 years of experience as an architect, I’ve helped homeowners enhance their spaces with high-quality materials and thoughtful design solutions on the Main Line and Greater Philadelphia Area. Here’s our guide to choosing the perfect wood for your home renovation or interior design project.

WHITE OAK - White oak is a popular choice for homes due to its strength, durability, and versatile grain patterns. Whether you’re considering white oak flooring, custom cabinetry, or architectural details, this wood adds sophistication and longevity to any space. Its natural water resistance also makes it ideal for luxury kitchen and bathroom renovations.

RED OAK - Red oak’s warm tones and textured grain make it a versatile option for millwork, stair treads, and cabinetry. Its affordability and durability have made it a staple in many interiors, blending seamlessly with both traditional and modern designs.

WALNUT - If you’re looking to add a touch of luxury to your home, walnut wood is the perfect choice. Known for its rich, dark color and smooth grain, walnut is often used in custom furniture, high-end cabinetry, and statement millwork that exudes elegance.

MAHOGANY - Mahogany’s deep reddish-brown hue and fine grain create an aura of refinement, making it ideal for elegant paneling, custom doors, and traditional millwork. Its natural luster enhances the depth and sophistication of any interior.

PINE - For a more rustic or farmhouse aesthetic, pine offers a warm, knotty appearance that’s both affordable and versatile. It’s a great option for trim, accent walls, and farmhouse-style furniture in more rustic homes.

ASH - Ash wood’s light, neutral color and straight grain make it a top choice for Scandinavian-inspired interiors. Whether used for open shelving, cabinetry, or flooring, ash adds a modern, airy feel to any space.

IPE - Ipe, often referred to as “Ironwood,” is renowned for its density and durability, making it the perfect choice for outdoor decking and high-end exterior furniture. Its deep brown tones and weather resistance ensure long-lasting beauty for high-end outdoor spaces.

CEDAR - Cedar’s natural resistance to moisture and insects, along with its pleasant aroma, makes it ideal for outdoor furniture, siding, and sauna interiors. Its reddish hue adds warmth to any design.

At Union Home Design, we specialize in creating bespoke interiors and architectural solutions that enhance your home’s beauty and functionality. Our collaborative approach ensures that every design decision, from wood selection to layout, is simplified and tailored to your vision.

Ready to elevate your Philadelphia home with expertly selected materials and thoughtful design? Contact Union Home Design today to schedule your consultation and bring your dream space to life!