WOOD SPECIES
Ingrained in the MADERA ethos is a deep reverence for wood. The human connection to wood and trees has no rival when it comes to the materials that surround us on a daily basis. There are thousands of species of trees in the world and although each species offers a unique opportunity for human expression we have chosen to focus on these five species due to their structural characteristics, workability, and aesthetic nature. Sustainability concerns, such as the overall health of each species and its effect on the greater environment, are also factored into our decision We are always exploring new materials, but our respect for nature and dedication to craft are constant.
“Trees are poems the earth writes upon the sky.”
— Khalil Gibran
EUROPEAN OAK
European Oak, the king of the temperate forests of central and northern Europe, is one of the most spectacular species of deciduous hardwoods on the planet. Although related to Quercus Alba (Northern White Oak), European oak is singular in its smooth texture, excellent, consistent color range and straight, tight grain.
The European Oak used for our Atelier and Volant Collections is as much about the quality of the wood and complex finishes offered as it is about the manufacturing process and breadth of products we can produce. The vision for these two collections is to offer a full spectrum of wood solutions for designers and homeowners looking to create a seamless wood interior.
NORTHERN WHITE OAK
The American Oak tree is legend and the material it produces is exceptional in every way. Strong, durable, beautiful and majestic in size, these native American trees dominate the deciduous forests of north and central United States. In dense forests oak trees grow up to 130 feet tall producing long, straight logs that are crafted into beautiful flooring planks.
WHITE ASH
The American White Ash is close to extinction due to the Emerald Ash Borer, an invasive species that has taken hold in the north American forests. The urgency to utilize this material lies in a tree's ability to capture carbon from the atmosphere. If left to decay the carbon is released back into the air which leads to warming of the atmosphere. Turning dead trees into flooring and furniture is the best way to keep carbon from entering the atmosphere. Straight grain, incredible durability and long straight trunks makes White Ash a favored material to craft into impressive floor boards.
BLACK WALNUT
American black walnut has been favored by furniture makers and craftsmen for centuries for its incredible color, dynamic grain pattern and workability. Though softer than oak and ash, black walnut can be crafted into amazing floor planks, and is favored in herringbone, chevron and other more traditional parquet.
ANTIQUE HEART PINE
Reclaimed from historic buildings across the Eastern States and Industrial Midwest, heart pine is an incredible building material and makes spectacular floor boards. This wood, often hundreds of years old, were harvested from the great long-leaf pine forests of the South Eastern United States and used as structural elements in the frenzied construction of the industrial revolution.
DISCUSS A PROJECT
We make custom, handcrafted wood floors and millwork. Our products are an expression of natural beauty and a celebration of the awesome grace and resilience of wood, the most noble material on earth. Whether you are a designer, contractor or homeowner, we want to hear from you. Let us help you turn your ideas and inspiration into reality.