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16 Unique Burl Wood Designs That Prove the Retro Trend Is Back
Meet burl wood, where the glamor of glossy marble meets the rustic warmth of natural wood. The high-quality material is coveted for its exquisite swirling wood grain which is distinctive and unique to each tree. If you’re ready to bring a luxe, European vibe into your home, here are some of the best burl wood pieces of the season.
Shopping
16 Unique Burl Wood Designs That Prove the Retro Trend Is Back
Meet burl wood, where the glamor of glossy marble meets the rustic warmth of natural wood. The high-quality material is coveted for its exquisite swirling wood grain which is distinctive and unique to each tree. If you’re ready to bring a luxe, European vibe into your home, here are some of the best burl wood pieces of the season.
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Burl Wood Decor
Burl wood is one of the boldest and most prized trends in home decor. Intricate, dramatic, and expressive, its organic patterns create a stark contrast against modern furniture and styles.
However, real burl wood isn’t all that common — it comes from a growth anomaly in trees, which leads to its irregular grain. Each piece is one of a kind, making for unique statement pieces.
What Is Burl Wood
Burl wood is, in essence, a tree growth anomaly caused by stress. This can be rooted in injury, disease, or environmental factors (among other things).
While wood usually grows in straight lines, the cells multiply chaotically in burls, leading to intricate grain patterns and swirls. These abstract designs are perfect for furniture as they provide a sculptural, artistic touch to any piece.
Real burl wood can come from a wide variety of trees and woods, including:
• Walnut
• Maple
• Oak
• Redwood
• Elm
• Cherries
Each type of burl wood will have its own color palette ingrained in the patterns, making for incredibly eye-catching textures.
Different Uses of Burl Wood in Furniture
Burl wood can be used in pretty much any piece of furniture made of wood or with wooden accents. When it comes to statement pieces, you can find coffee tables, sideboards, dressers, and desks made from burl wood. The complex patterns and intricate grain contribute to a luxurious feel and can instantly transform the ambiance of a room.
However, you could also look for more subtle items and burl wood decor. Vases, trays, and frames are practical and stylish details that add a touch of depth to everyday use.
Keep in mind that not every item in the market is made exclusively out of burl wood due to its higher cost. Solid wood burl is rarer to find, but it adds a natural, organic character to any piece.
For a more affordable option, look for burl veneer instead. This implies a common wood base covered in a thin layer of burl wood.
Burl Wood Care Tips
Although burl wood isn’t much different from normal wood, some care tips can help you keep it looking as good as new over the years.
First of all, you should make sure you dust it frequently to remove dust buildup. Because of the intricate patterns, debris quickly build. Always avoid abrasive cleaners and opt for a soft microfiber cloth for the cleanup.
Be aware of heat and moisture. Too much sunlight and heat fades the wood over the years. Excess moisture warps the wood, so make sure you keep your furniture in an appropriate environment.
What To Look for When Buying Burl Wood
Many brands often turn to faux burl wood to cut costs. Luckily, it’s not too difficult to distinguish real burl wood from faux pieces.
The first giveaway is usually the pattern: real burl wood isn’t repetitive at all, while faux burl will often have some degree of repetition. You should also check the texture with your fingertips — real burl wood will have subtle depth variations.
You should also look for well-constructed pieces with a protective finish, even if it’s real burl wood. The finish should feel smooth, but it should also be thick enough to ensure longevity.
Where To Buy Burl Wood Furniture
Burl wood is available in hundreds of stores and retailers across the US. From large chains to local woodshops, there are countless options both online and in-person. However, not all burl wood is made equal.
At Furniture.com, we strive to provide you with a vast catalog of quality burl wood furniture for sale from several of the best manufacturers in the US. Our team carefully curates these based on both style and quality, ensuring you always get the right piece for the right price.
F.A.Q.
Where to buy burl wood furniture?
Plenty of retailers carry burl wood furniture. This makes finding the best piece a bit overwhelming. Try shopping online to see all of your options without any of that in-person pressure. Furniture.com gives you access to all of the top brands, all in one place. Check out their wide selection of furniture today to enhance your home with stylish new burl wood pieces.
Is burl wood still in style?
Burl wood originally became fashionable with the rise of the Art Deco movement in the early 1900s. Its popularity persisted throughout the 1930’s when it was used to add gravitas and grandeur to the Hollywood Regency style.
Today its one-of-a-kind nature fits seamlessly into such a wide range of artisanal decorating styles that it’s back in high demand.
What is the average price of burl wood?
Thanks to the custom nature of each piece, burl tends to be more expensive than run-of-the-mill wood. The exact price depends on the size of the burl, the type of wood, and the craftsmanship entailed.
Larger pieces like dining room tables, countertops, and bartops can range anywhere from $3,000 to $10,000. Smaller pieces like end tables and cabinets tend to be less than $1,000. And accent pieces such as bowls and cutting boards can easily be found for under $100.
For the best prices, check out Furniture.com’s selection today.