Tuesday, June 22, 2010

Why hard wood is good

Hard wood is one of nature's best materials - it will last a lifetime, is relatively low maintenance and can usually withstand Australia's harsh outdoor weather. My favourite is old Sydney fences that have gone silver with age, and may look rickety but still have an amazing patina that outshines any hideous new Colourbond fence or brick wall.

Boral timber just sent through these ideas for using hardwood outdoors. I kinda like 'em:

Screening: Enclose or partition sections of the backyard to create separate spaces for different activities, such as an entertaining area for eating with guests and another where the kids can play. Decking timber framed around an entertaining area makes a stunning backdrop, while placed around a pool it is an excellent way to provide privacy.

Seating: Timber decking is the natural material choice for creating outdoor seating, either for chairs around a table or as a bench along the outskirts of the garden for a more informal setting.  Timber perfectly complements a variety of outdoor materials, such as Boral’s masonry blocks and pavers. Rich, warm timber provides a striking contrast against neutral, highly textured materials and brings a whole new dimension to the backyard.

Fencing: Hardwood timber decking is ideal for fencing, offering year-round protection against the elements and providing a smart, natural finish for the front and back of the home.

Edging: Decking can be a decorative feature that lends itself to borders and edging. Use timber boards either horizontally or vertically to add texture and colour around plants, trees or herb beds.

Structural applications: A strong and durable material, hardwood timber can be used to build structural items for the garden. Pergolas or gazebos are a beautiful feature, helping to provide some shade during the hot summer days. For the kids, timber can be used to construct a cubby house in which to play.

Statement pieces: Create an arresting timber centrepiece as a focal point around which the rest of the backyard design can flow. With a variety of species to choose from, a timber statement piece will bring warmth and texture to the backyard for years to come.

Outdoor room: Timber decking can form a continuation of the indoor living area, carrying the look and feel through to the outdoors for a harmonious, flowing aesthetic. Matching the timber species to indoor flooring will produce a seamless space and can be further accentuated with potted plants boxed in the same timber.

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1 comment:

  1. I love your blog, everything about it is amazing and there are some fantastic inspirations on here aside from being very informative.

    Thanks for posting!

    ReplyDelete

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