STYLE GUIDE
Solid wood furniture comes in a range of styles, grains, and tones to suit any space. Here’s how to choose the right wood to match your taste and lifestyle.
MAPLE
smooth. bright. minimal.
Maple is clean, consistent, and ultra-durable, perfect for modern and minimalist spaces. Its pale tone and subtle grain give it a crisp, timeless look. It can yellow slightly over time, and staining can be tricky, so a clear coat or water-based polyurethane is your best bet.
HICKORY
bold. rustic. built to last.
Hickory is one of the hardest woods out there and it looks the part. With dramatic contrast and a rugged, lived-in feel, it’s perfect for adding character to casual or country-inspired spaces. Its weight and wild grain can be a challenge, but a natural oil finish or light stain brings out its charm.
RED OAK
classic. bold. dependable.
Red oak is a no-nonsense hardwood that holds up to daily life and brings a lot of personality with its strong grain pattern. It’s widely available and budget-friendly, though its bold grain may not suit every space. Use a gel stain or tinted lacquer to even out the color and tone it down if needed.
WALNUT
dark. rich. sophisticated.
Walnut is luxury in wood form. With deep, chocolatey tones and graceful grain patterns, it makes a statement without saying a word. It’s strong and stable, though the price tag reflects its premium nature. Use a natural oil or hardwax oil to highlight its depth and natural warmth.
WHITE ASH
light. strong. effortlessly cool.
Ash offers the best of both worlds: it’s tough but lightweight, stylish but not flashy. Its soft grain gives it a relaxed vibe. Just be aware: its open grain can absorb moisture, so seal it well with a water-based polyurethane or oil-based finish.
WHITE OAK
refined. resiliant. timeless.
White oak is the gold standard: incredibly durable, naturally water-resistant, and versatile enough for any design. With its neutral tone and straight grain, it works equally well in modern and classic spaces. A hardwax oil, Rubio Monocoat, or white-tinted oil finish brings out its sophisticated side.
CARE GUIDE
Solid wood furniture is a living material that, with proper care, can last for generations. Here’s how to protect your investment and keep it looking its best.
Unlike manufactured materials, solid wood naturally expands and contracts with temperature and humidity changes. This is not a defect, it’s a characteristic of
REAL WOOD.
To minimize these effects, we recommend:
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Maintaining a consistent indoor environment between 35–55% relative humidity.
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Avoiding placing furniture near heat sources, vents, or direct sunlight.
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Using a humidifier in winter and a dehumidifier in summer if needed.
Daily Care Tips:
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Use coasters, placemats, and trivets to protect against heat and moisture.
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Wipe spills immediately with a soft, dry or slightly damp cloth.
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Avoid abrasive cleaners, silicone sprays, or bleach-based products.
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Lift, don’t drag items across the surface to prevent scratches.
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Using a humidifier in winter and a dehumidifier in summer if needed.
Understanding Finishes
The type of finish used on your furniture affects how it looks, feels, and wears over time. Here’s how to care for the most common high-quality finishes used in modern woodworking:
HARDWAX OIL
Finish Type: Natural oil and wax blend.
Appearance: Matte to satin; showcases wood grain beautifully while preserving a natural feel.
Protection: Penetrates the wood and forms a durable surface bond while remaining breathable.
Care & Maintenance:
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Clean with a slightly damp cloth and pH-neutral or Osmo-specific cleaners.
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Avoid harsh or abrasive chemicals.
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Re-oil every 1–3 years depending on usage and exposure.
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Easy to repair: Lightly sand worn areas and reapply oil—no need to refinish the entire piece.
Best For: Natural, rustic, or tactile finishes where the feel of real wood is important.
NANO COATING
Finish Type: Advanced nanotechnology sealant.
Appearance: Invisible or low-sheen protective layer.
Protection: Extreme resistance to liquids, UV, and staining. Great for high-traffic or
spill-prone areas.
Care & Maintenance:
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Clean with mild soap and water or specific nano-friendly products.
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Little to no ongoing maintenance needed.
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Re-coating is typically needed every 5–10 years.
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Touch-ups may require specialty products or professional attention.
Best For: Clients who want low maintenance, ultra-durable protection with a natural look.
POLYURETHANE FINISH
Finish Type: Synthetic film-forming topcoat, available in water-based or oil-based
formulas.
Appearance: Varies from matte to high gloss depending on formulation, creates a
sealed surface layer.
Protection: Strong resistance to water, scratches, and wear. Not breathable like oils.
Care & Maintenance:
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Wipe with a damp cloth avoid soaking or standing water.
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Use mild, non-abrasive cleaners.
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Avoid ammonia or bleach-based products which can cloud the finish.
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More difficult to spot-repair: scratches and chips often require refinishing the whole surface.
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Water-based poly tends to show less yellowing over time than oil-based poly.
Best For: Dining tables, desktops, and surfaces that need high scratch resistance and don’t require frequent refinishing.