Archives for August 2018

Patterns are everywhere in nature. The natural patterns found in nature deeply affect and nurture us. They are imprinted in our physiological-cognitive system and when we spend time in environments devoid of natural patterns, it leads to anxiety and stress which in the short term hampers productivity but in the long term can lead to illness. Nikos Salingaros, architectural theorist and mathematician, emphasizes that there are enormous opportunities to create healing built environments by incorporating the mathematical qualities of those found in living and natural forms.

There are many kinds of natural patterns and those that have a self-similarity are called fractals. According Salingaros, “much, if not all, of natural structure is fractal”. Fractals are patterns that repeat at different scales: If you zoom in on a picture of a fractal, you will still see the same pattern repeated.

Examples of patterns found in nature.

Richard Taylor, a physicist at the University of Oregon, and fractal fanatic, explains that “Your visual system is in some way hardwired to understand fractals,” said Taylor. “The stress-reduction is triggered by a physiological resonance that occurs when the fractal structure of the eye matches that of the fractal image being viewed.” When an environment veers away from natural patterns, it leads to some discomfort, even if subconsciously.

Science has long studied the relationship between natural patterns and the human brain. As it turns out, the brain is a powerful pattern recognition machine. One study even called pattern processing “the essence of the evolved human brain,” noting that humans have recognized the central importance of SPP [superior pattern processing] for their advancement as a species.” In other words, being able to identify patterns is an inherent part of being a human. This instinct is so strong that we even tend to perceive patterns where there are none.

Thus, it probably doesn’t come as a surprise that patterns have healing effects. Namely, patterns help to reduce stress. A 2006 study found that incorporating fractals into architecture results in lowered stress levels. Other research has shown that viewing fractals can reduce stress by as much as 60 percent. Another study found that surgical patients with rooms that featured views of nature spent less time in the hospital than patients whose rooms faced a brick wall.

From Distinct Solutions: This honeycomb pattern is an excellent example of a biomorphic pattern

Patterns also have an undeniable visual appeal that’s immediately apparent to the viewer. This has a larger implication as well: that nature and its patterns are inherently beautiful. Indeed, people are drawn toward natural materials like wood in the built environment, as observed by A. Quincy Jones. The closer a constructed environment is to the natural world, the more enjoyable it will be, and patterns play a large role here.

Salingaros, of strong opinion that the way we shape our buildings will shape us, feels minimalist spaces void of nature make us uneasy. We must bring nature and its patterns into design. Designers can incorporate natural patterns into the built environment in many creative ways. People have an affinity for natural materials. Thus, to maximize the positive effect of pattern, it makes sense to use natural materials in the process. Materials can be the vehicle to provide pattern or the instrument to create them. Think wooden spiral staircase. The spiral shape is a reflection of nature and the wood, analogous of nature, provides its own natural patterns.

The patterns present in wood are especially beautiful. The size, type and arrangement of wood cells differ from one wood species to another, and this affects the appearance of the grain.Some wood species have very figured grain pattern while others are more refined, all of which can be presented differently depending on how the wood is sawn. Reclaimed wood that has been weathered or naturally distressed over time adds another level of character that can enrich the patterns found in wood.

From TerraMai: This closeup of a reclaimed oak tabletop shows off the multitude of patterns

The Aesthetic Benefits of Patterns

Natural patterns are universally beautiful. When we view the patterns found in wood ––whether it’s a complex fractal or a simple series of cracks ––we perceive beauty. The numerous wellness benefits that patterns can provide present amazing design opportunities.

Even in ancient times, humans grasped the power and attractiveness of patterns. Perhaps that’s why the ancient Pueblo people designed complex geometric structures even though they lacked a number system and alphabet. Patterns that occur in nature, like fractals and the Fibonacci sequence, are timeless and universal. In his book Patterns in Nature, author Philip Ball summed up the effect of patterns: “Natural patterns offer raw delights, but they also point to something deep.”

This focus on patterns has been instrumental to the rise of biophilic design. In the landmark report “14 Patterns of Biophilic Design,” Terrapin Bright Green put forth 14 central concepts that detailed the relationship between humans and biophilic architecture. One of those concepts is Biomorphic Forms & Patterns. A biomorphic pattern is simply a pattern found in nature or a pattern that simulates a natural pattern. As Terrapin puts it, “The objective of Biomorphic Forms & Patterns is to provide representational design elements within the built environment that allow users to make connections to nature.” One of the best (and easiest) ways to make that happen is to use natural materials, which is why reclaimed wood is so useful.

From TerraMai: Weathered Lost Coast Redwood introduces natural patterns into the Hulu office

The Abundance of Patterns in Reclaimed Wood

From TerraMai: The patterns in this Reclaimed Red Oak are compelling and eye-catching

From TerraMai: This reclaimed redwood has wavy and spiraling figure pattern

From TerraMai: Mission Oak Vintage showcases arches and cathedral pattern, and displays occasional nail holes and checking from its prior life

No matter the type of wood, the abundance of patterns will have a positive effect on the viewer. The patina and weathering marks present in post-consumer reclaimed wood accentuate the natural patterns and add character.

Conclusion

Patterns make up a critical part of the natural world, and as humans, we’re meant to connect with these patterns on an innate, instinctive level. Knowing how beneficial patterns are, it makes perfect sense to build them into all aspects of design. In short, including patterns into the built environment––especially in the form of natural building materials like reclaimed wood––will optimize the design for the human brain. Occupants will be happier, more productive, and enjoy the overall experience more.

People are eating out more than ever. Customer expectations have risen and they want more from their dining experiences. Restaurants need consumers to come in and come back. Great food alone is not enough. Design is integral to the total experience. It sets a tone and conveys a message and promise to customers. According to the National Restaurant Association there are over 1 million restaurants in the US competing for $799 billion in sales. Design has the power to transform a space from a place to eat to a place offering an engaging, memorable experience.

We explored the forecasted 2018 trends in restaurant design and found reclaimed wood named again and again with wood in general being singled out as a specific trend. One theme is clear, people are more visually savvy now. They want a personal experience and care about the details.

1. Mixing design styles attracts customers

Creating and implementing a unique style can boost profits and keep customers coming back for more. To stand out, designers are ensuring comfort and warmth but adding modern twists. They are expertly blending styles to create unique spaces that work. Retro style, utilizing materials reminiscent of the 60’s and 70’s, has emerged but made warmer and friendlier by intermixing with lots of plants and wood.

From Beamish Museum: This space combines wood flooring and retro vinyl flooring along with wood tables and seating softened with a lot of comfy pillows.

The rustic, industrial look has been trending for some time now. Wood and stone still dominate as people are naturally drawn to materials from nature but these spaces can update their look with lighting and other key design elements.

From Cool Cities: The incredible chandelier with a little help from elegant tableware transforms this industrial space with its rustic wood ceiling and cement floors and walls into an incredible dining experience.

Embracing existing, original elements like beams or brick walls provide an authenticity to a space. Structural elements can be elevated by blending with other design styles for a more chic aesthetic.

From TerraMai: Agave Uptown in Oakland, CA worked the building’s structural elements into their design and provide a sleek look with reclaimed Metro Flooring

2. Wood Paneling is in

White walls and wallpaper are fading out. Wood paneling is in more than ever. Natural materials like wood are essential for creating warm, inviting, fresh spaces. People find spaces with wood as more habitable than spaces without wood. Wood is instantly familiar and can lend a sense of welcome to any built environment. Mid-century modern has reemerged and is not going away anytime soon further emphasizing the call for wood and craftsmanship.

From Architectural Digest: The Studio Munge designed Leuca with wood paneling throughout.

3. Instagramable spaces are key

This trend was called out repeatedly further reinforcing the fact that customers are looking for a selfie-worthy experience and are noticing design details. Eclectic, eye-catching artwork, tile, lights and furniture are some of the items that customers like to photograph.

From TerraMai: Booths wrapped in reclaimed wood are sure to show up on instagram

4. Expect to see lots of Plants

Foliage covered restaurants and herb-growing eateries are on the rise and coincide with the farm-to-table, clean eating trend. Plant filled, biophilic dining spaces also resonate with people’s innate need for more nature and convey a message that parallels that of the menu.

From GrowUp: The living wall, plants and wood flooring create a relaxing and cozy atmosphere for diners

Biophilic elements like plants and reclaimed wood help to create a restive and restorative environment which leads to a  positive dining experience. A living wall is a good way to update a space and helps to naturally clean the air.

5. Less is More

The minimalist aesthetic is very appealing especially to millenials. Clean lines with a focus on select luxurious furnishings or wall covering make the space. Pops of color and touches of metals like chrome add unexpected detail to a linear uncluttered look.

From TerraMai: Reclaimed Teak Paneling is the warming element in this clean space

6. Reclaimed wood remains a selling point

Architectural Digest, Elle Decor and Webstaurant Store all indicate reclaimed wood is an important design material and can be a good selling point valued by customers. Reclaimed wood can help enforce a brand message; add a biophilic element by bringing a natural, organic material into a space; add story and provide a soulful authenticity. Reclaimed wood can bring an abundance of texture and character with weathered and distressed patina but it can also deliver a clean aesthetic.

From TerraMai: CBD Provisions is dedicated to sustainability and shows it off in their reclaimed wood design choices.

From TerraMai: Reclaimed MC Walnut at Tutto il Giorno, Tribeca, NYC.

From TerraMai: Lost Coast Redwood Weathered Siding makes for an inviting store. Studies show that people associate positive emotions toward companies in buildings with wood siding.

From TerraMai: Burgerville’s message of sustainability is backed by their use of reclaimed redwood on the interior and exterior of their Corvallis, OR location.

Conclusion

The restaurant business is highly competitive and consumers have a lot of choices. Given that a restaurant’s design is as important as the menu and food quality, it’s important that the decor create the right atmosphere. The overall design aesthetic will influence customer emotions, which in turn will influence their experience. Positive emotions and experience will result in engaged customers. Design can get people in the door, makes customers want to return, and inspire them to tell all their friends. Reclaimed wood is one tool to help connect with customers for a positive experience.

When I first learned about teak, its history, and all its benefits, I was fascinated by it. Over the years at TerraMai, we work with many wood types and surface materials but teak holds a special place. In many ways it reminds me of the great redwoods in the U.S. Another really majestic and amazing tree that deserves some reverence. Many people know teak for its rich beauty, but there’s much more to teak than meets the eye. Beyond its great looks and extreme versatility (attributes architects and designers love), it has a history that draws us in and helps us value it all the more. Teak has been used for thousands of years and is still one of the most desired woods today. But what makes it so special? Here’s a look into the universal popularity and timelessness of reclaimed teak wood.

The Amazing Properties of Reclaimed Teak

From TerraMai: The Dockers flagship store in San Francisco uses reclaimed teak flooring

Teak is native to South and Southeast Asia. While the teak tree has been exported to other countries, the world’s best old-growth teak can only be found in Asia. Naturally, the native people used the wood that was readily available discovering that teak was a particularly durable wood and thus used it for many applications. Teak first saw major use around the Middle Ages, when shipbuilders would use the wood to construct sturdy vessels. As the British Empire expanded, and with it trade, teak found its way into Europe often utilized for bridge building, many of which are still in use today. It’s usage expanded further into luxury furniture for royalty to railway cars.

There are many factors that contribute to teak’s amazing quality. First, it’s an extremely strong and resilient wood. With exceptional dimensional stability, teak is able to withstand heavy use and last for centuries. (Teak can be found today in palaces and temples that are over 1,000 years old.) Because teak is native to areas where volatile weather is common, it’s adapted to survive even the most extreme environments. It stays strong and unchanged even in blistering hot or freezing cold temperatures, and its low shrinkage ratio helps it resist warping when changes in moisture or humidity occur.

From TerraMai: Reclaimed Teak Flooring and feature wall in a luxury bathroom.

Teak also contains two elements that are incredibly potent: silica and oils. The silica impregnates the wood and makes it virtually waterproof. Teak also possesses many natural oils that give the wood its trademark luster. In fact, that striking luster from these oils is why many architects and designers choose teak. With both beauty and brawn, teak is often an easy choice for commercial projects.

The high amounts of silica and oil give teak an astonishing resistance to rot, fungi, and mildew. The oils act as natural repellents, deterring termites and other pests. Best of all, teak finishes and installs well so there is no compromising equipment loss (drill bits and saw blades) for the benefit of durability.

From TerraMai: Unused structures in Asia often have old-growth teak that can be reclaimed

Teak is not only strong but also long-lasting. In addition to being resistant to rot, fungi, and mildew, it also resists stains, and overall corrosion. While many woods attract dirt and grime, teak repels them. As a result, even incredibly old teak often looks polished and attractive. In contemporary interior design, this means that teak will last for lifetimes without excessive care and maintenance. This is especially true for outdoor usage. Many other woods require more maintenance when used outdoors, but teak’s natural properties make it ideal for outdoor applications.

From TerraMai: Naturally Distressed Long Plank Teak Siding

Reclaimed Teak’s Timeless Beauty

From TerraMai: HOK’s office makes a statement with Reclaimed Teak Paneling

Wood has been proven to be extremely pleasing to the eye, and this is especially true of reclaimed teak. Much of wood’s natural appeal comes from biophilia, or the fact that humans innately desire to be connected with nature. In their landmark study “14 Patterns of Biophilic Design,” Terrapin Bright Green enumerated the various ways biophilia works. We as humans connect to nature through our senses but mostly visually, so aesthetics are crucial for creating a biophilic environment. Wood brings many natural aspects together. The look of wood is immediately evocative of the natural world; it’s uniquely textured; and it reminds us of the organic processes of life. Reclaimed woods displaying character and patina that has developed over the years of use and exposure like Naked Teak and Naturally Distressed Long Plank Teak enhances that connection even further.

Teak in particular is so attractive because of its natural shine, rich colors, and exquisite grain detail. Most teak ranges from tan to medium brown with many grain highlights. Its deep honey tones are reminiscent of the opulence of nature. Even better, teak only gets more beautiful over time. For interior applications, the wood develops a richer, deeper color while outside teak will weather to a grey-silver patina.

From TerraMai: Reclaimed Teak Bench at NYC High Line shown in 2017 versus 2011 installation

Why Old-Growth Reclaimed Teak Is So Special

You may have come across the term “old-growth wood” before. In 1994, old-growth forests were defined as “ecosystems distinguished by old trees and related structural attributes.” Old-growth characteristics, such as fortified strength, occur when the wood has matured. The exact age depends on the type of tree, but generally, old-growth features can take 120 to 500 years to show.

Old-growth wood is extremely sought after because it’s stronger and lasts longer than new wood. However, there isn’t a lot of old-growth forest left in the world due to deforestation and the increasing usage of wood. The United States Forest Service estimates that only about 3 percent of the country’s old-growth forest has survived to this day. Unfortunately, due to tree poaching, that problem persists, making old-growth wood even rarer. Despite these conditions, old-growth timber is still in demand.

From TerraMai: Old-growth teak is highly desired for its natural, rich appearance

Since harvesting the remaining supply of old-growth trees is not be a viable option, the best method is to find alternative sourcing for old-growth wood. The ethical environmental option is to purchase reclaimed old growth wood. Reclamation doesn’t require any living trees to be cut; instead, the wood is salvaged from aging vintage structures slated for demolition. This preserves the remaining old-growth forest and repurposes a valuable resource.

Conclusion

There’s no other wood that’s quite like reclaimed teak. It’s remains a popular design choice, and it’s easy to see why. Reclaimed teak is a gorgeous, durable, sustainable building material that’s a perfect fit for all kinds of commercial environments. Whether you want to bring a touch of nature to a space or foster a more calming atmosphere, reclaimed teak can do the job.

Wood is beautiful, but did you know it can actually improve cognitive health? That’s the conclusion that many recent studies have reached, and it’s inspiring architects and designers to make wood a central locus of the built environment. Wood is now being chosen not only for its looks but also its psychophysiological benefits. This research is changing the way A&D professionals approach their craft, and the resulting design is more human-centric than ever before. Here’s why wood is such a boon to our bodies and brains.

Wood and Psychophysiology

From Olson Kundig: Wood’s numerous health benefits make it a popular material choice for starchitects

Psychophysiology is the field of study that analyzes the relationship between mental and physical processes. It acknowledges that there is a strong connection between mind and body and researches how the two affect each other as well as how external conditions affect them. In the built environment, psychophysiology is a crucial factor that will determine occupant enjoyment. From the design all the way down to the specific building materials used, the built environment greatly affects the people who inhabit it. As such, it’s important to pay attention to the psychophysiological impact of a space.

Design psychophysiology is a large part of biophilic design, which aims to create environments that facilitate both mental and physical health in occupants. The field of biophilic design has been instrumental in helping architects and designers understand how buildings affect people and how they can be optimized to be the most beneficial.

From TerraMai: The Clif Bar HQ is a stunning example of biophilic design

As it turns out, wood is one material that has been connected to psychophysiological benefits. In their study “Wood as a Restorative Material in Healthcare Environments,” Sally Augustin and David Fell explored the connection between wood and psychophysiology. Their findings aligned with much of the research that has been conducted in biophilic design, but looking at these findings through the lens of psychophysiology gives us a new way of viewing the built environment.

How Wood Helps Reduce Stress

In short, Augustin and Fell concluded that wood is particularly excellent at stress reduction. However, it’s the specific details that have incredible applications to design. First, wood can help people manage existing stress. To illustrate this, Augustin and Fell cited a 2010 study that analyzed how offices (with and without wood) affected participants who completed a stressful mental task. The participants in offices that featured wood were much less stressed than those in non-wood offices.

From TerraMai: Wood noticeably reduces stress, a quality that’s ideal for office environments

Wood can also prevent stress from occurring. A 2011 study analyzed stress levels in students who were placed in wood and non-wood classrooms. The findings were similar to the aforementioned 2010 study: students in classrooms that had wood were less stressed than students in non-wood rooms. A similar conclusion was reached in a study that considered wood in residential environments. Fascinatingly, participants’ blood pressure and heart rate dropped when they entered rooms with wood but increased when they entered rooms without wood.

Even the amount of wood has an effect on wood’s stress reduction properties. A 2007 study assessed participants’ responses to rooms that were covered in 0%, 45%, and 90% wood. While heart rate and blood pressure were lowest in the room with 90% wood, participants said they felt most comfortable in the 45% wood room. This is where psychophysiology comes into play. Although the 90% wood room satisfied participants physiologically, the 45% room was the best psychophysiological option, combining lowered heart rate and blood pressure with enjoyment and calmness.

From Microsoft: Spaces with about 45% wood provide a good psychophysiological balance

Wood as a Multifaceted Psychophysiological Asset

Wood’s health benefits aren’t limited to stress reduction. A report by Planet Ark demonstrated that wood has been shown to boost social interaction and foster feelings of comfort. On a very simple level, these benefits immediately contribute to short-term occupant health. However, the implications of wood’s many healing properties are astonishing. The Planet Ark study speculated that wood’s social component may help to mitigate dementia in the elderly. The authors also put forth that wood’s stress relieving abilities may help people avoid health complications––including obesity and type 2 diabetes––that arise as a result of stress.

From Mason Design + Development: 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge uses biophilic design and lots of wood to create a human-first environment

There are many other enthralling studies that analyze the relationship between wood and psychophysiology. Dr. Yuki Kawamura, a researcher at Sumitomo Forestry Research, measured various kinds of health responses to wood. One experiment studied the effects of wood on the brain and found that wood produces higher alpha wave activity, thus indicating higher levels of relaxation. During mentally demanding tasks, participants exposed to wood had more beta wave activity, which pointed to higher levels of focus. These fascinating studies proved that wood can help people rest or focus more effectively depending on the context. For designers, this means wood is just as useful in a hotel room as it is in a corporate office.

From its stress alleviation properties to its social benefits, wood proves time and time again to be one of the healthiest building materials in existence. Equipped with this new knowledge, architects and designers can work to ensure that the built environment is psychophysiologically optimized for humans. This approach is already ushering in a new era of design that brings biophilia to the forefront and focuses on making the healthiest possible spaces.

Using Wood in Design For Cognitive Health Benefits

From TerraMai: Reclaimed wood paneling in group areas can facilitate social interaction

There are many ways to use wood in the built environment for positive psychophysiological effects. That said, there are some key concepts to keep in mind. First, it’s crucial to consider the right amount of wood for any given space. As we saw from one of the studies, rooms with about 45% coverage of wood were considered to be the most comfortable. That figure doesn’t need to be an immovable metric for designers to adhere to, but the concept of using the appropriate amount of wood to accomplish the design intention is pivotal.

From Terrapin Bright Green: Maintaining a good balance of wood to non-wood elements is critical to achieve the intended outcome for a space

Next, keep the full range of wood’s benefits in mind. Thinking of wood as a healthy building material (and not just a stress reliever) will help you unlock all of its design advantages. For instance, due to wood’s ability to encourage social interaction, many designers elect to use wood in spaces where people gather together. Hotel lobbies, office break rooms, fitness centers, study areas, and event spaces are just a few environments that can utilize wood to foster a more social atmosphere.

Finally, think about the type of wood to employ. Many architects are choosing reclaimed wood as it arguably provides added benefits over new wood. Reclaimed wood can be character-rich with lots of texture and weathering which can elicit a stronger natural, organic connection for occupants to a space. Telling the story of reclaimed wood whether the reclaimed wood has a clean aesthetic or readily displays its prior history through a naturally distressed look, allows occupants to emotionally connect and feel more meaning to the built environment in addition to having a natural affinity for wood.

From TerraMai: Acacia Metro Paneling is a reclaimed wood that will instantly turn heads

Conclusion

The link between wood and cognitive health has far-reaching implications for architects and designers. Spaces with abundant wood have always been considered beautiful, but now we’re discovering that such spaces are beneficial to not only the eye but also the mind and body. The result: Built environments that help people rest, focus, and feel better, all thanks to wood.

Beautifully Weathered Lost Coast Redwood has a naturally distressed patina associated with the Northern California coast providing a color range of weathered browns and greys. The wood has developed a lovely character from decades of natural weathering. The rich textures, attractive color range, and surface checking is evidence of its prior life. You can imagine its story and journey. The best part of Lost Coast though is its ability to take on many looks to suit design needs. This material is incredibly versatile lending itself to many applications.

1. Happiest Hour in Dallas uses Lost Coast reclaimed wood for its unique seating options

From TerraMai: Happiest Hour’s fun, laid-back vibe is complemented by its memorable design

Happiest Hour is a restaurant focused on creating an experience that is energetic and enjoyable for its patrons. To make that happen, the designer used copious amounts of reclaimed wood. Lost Coast Redwood can be found as paneling throughout the restaurant and in the unforgettable circular enclosures that house dining booths. The weathered greys and browns and the wood’s texture creates visual interest for diners but the unique use of the wood to encircle the booths creates a cohesive gathering experience in the midst of a busy restaurant. Reclaimed wood has been proven to increase social interaction in hospitality spaces and it gets the job done at Happiest Hour.

2. Eye-catching patterns using Lost Coast Paneling

From TerraMai: Lost Coast reclaimed wood paneling serves as the focal point of this space

Lost Coast on its own can become the centerpiece of the space it’s in but when applied at an angle it literally can add a new dimension to a room. The Albuquerque-based meeting space Gravitate! uses Lost Coast paneling in a chevron pattern, resulting in a stunning focal point. The varying greys and browns of the paneling works well with reclaimed Mission Oak Flooring, plant life, and mid-century modern furniture to create a biophilic space that makes occupants happier and healthier. TerraMai now offers Lost Coast with several finishes pre-cut and ready to install in a Chevron pattern.

Yakima Products chose to install Lost Coast at an angle to give their space an added energy and sense of movement. The natural weathered aesthetic is a perfect fit for a company that’s dedicated to helping people live an adventurous outdoor lifestyle.

From TerraMai: Yakima’s interior is a reflection of the company’s dedication to discovering innovative solutions that are designed to last.

3. 1 Hotel South Beach uses Lost Coast Redwood inside and out

From TerraMai: Lost Coast paneling at 1 Hotel South Beach, Miami

1 Hotel South Beach is resplendent with biophilic design elements such as ample greenery and walls of windows that let lots of daylight through. The designer chose reclaimed wood for added biophilic properties. With its multiple textures and tones, Lost Coast on the ceiling really stands out and is a perfect complement to the overall elegance of the design. On the ceiling of the porte cochere, Lost Coast greets customers as they arrive to the hotel and then flows seamlessly right through the wall of windows into the hotel’s interior lobby. Lost Coast’s ability to function both in interior and exterior applications makes it ideal for execution of a continuous design element like the one at 1 Hotel.

4. Lost Coast has Curve Appeal

From TerraMai: Ram’s host station features a curved wall constructed from Lost Coast Filet

TerraMai offers Lost Coast in two thicknesses with the Filet option being ¼”. The thinner material lends itself to several applications and being that it’s quite thin it has some additional flexibility. A curved wall can soften interior design, add visual interest and help with wayfinding. Many elements in nature are curved so adding rounded design elements provides a natural, organic feel. Research indicates humans have an affinity for curved walls and furnishings with the data showing these elements affect us on an emotional level.

5. Nylon Brushing gives Lost Coast a more refined look

From TerraMai: Jet.com’s office facilitates work through its design

Reclaimed wood brings many added benefits to office design. Because of its biophilic connection, reclaimed wood works to optimize productivity and facilitate collaboration. A design may call for a slightly more refined look which can be achieved with a texturing technique called nylon brushing. This technique lightly reduces the weathered patina on the face of the wood resulting in a more homogenous color distribution. Jet.com’s well-lit, open space is complemented by the nylon brushed paneling, fostering a positive energy that empowers workers where individuals and groups alike can perform at their best.

6. Adding a stain brings a different vibe to Lost Coast

From Sunlife Organics: Lost Coast Fog provides a beachy aesthetic for Sunlife Organics in Malibu, CA

Lost Coast Paneling and Siding can transform once again with the addition of a stain. Our Fog finish is reminiscent of the misty California coast and provides a beachy feel to a space. Other standard stains are Storm and Ember, but custom finishes can also be created. Lost Coast is also part of our recent Faux Sugi Ban Charcoal product collection. The wood is finished to resemble traditional Shou Sugi Ban but no actual burning takes place thus the mess is eliminated.

7. Lost Coast Weathered & Tinted gives this office a bold look

From TerraMai: Wallaby Financial’s office uses striking Lost Coast Weathered & Tinted Paneling

Sometimes you need a little color. Lost Coast is a great vehicle to obtain a painted patina look. The weathered planks are painted with a zero-VOC paint then lightly skip sanded to remove some of the paint revealing the wood underneath once again. The planks are then oiled resulting in colorful weathered paneling that can really brighten a space.

Above, you can see the electric blue that Wallaby Financial chose for their commissary area. The grain pattern and weathered nature of the wood still standout. While Lost Coast is beautiful all on its own, adding a splash of color creates a stunning appearance and can work as a branding tool as well.

8. Use surfaced redwood for a timeless appearance

From TerraMai: Surfaced Lost Coast Redwood paneling provides a look that won’t go out of style

Redwood is a beautiful wood with its auburn and burgundy tones intermixed with a bit of sapwood. Although the weathered face on Lost Coast is spectacular, at times a cleaner aesthetic is needed. Surfaced Lost Coast is one way to obtain that cleaner look with reclaimed wood. Surfaced Lost Coast offers the timeless look of redwood while also satisfying customer goals of choosing a sustainable material. All of the Lost Coast offerings are FSC certified Recycled 100%.

9. Lost Coast Siding

From TerraMai: A neighborhood communal building sports Lost Coast Siding

Lost Coast reclaimed wood siding gives the Cadence Park neighborhood communal center an authentic, natural and inviting aura. Exterior Wood Siding has been found to be more inviting and provide a homier sensibility which is exactly what a neighborhood center building should do.

10. Boost your brand message by printing on Lost Coast Paneling

From TerraMai: Eureka! emblazoned their branding on Lost Coast paneling

Today, creating an experience for building occupants and visitors is more important than ever. Experience design has become a bona fide design philosophy, and brands are looking for more ways to immerse people. One simple way to do that is by printing your brand directly onto wood. Lost Coast reclaimed wood can be laser etched or painted with a logo or slogan. This is the perfect opportunity to reinforce your brand and create a more cohesive experience for your guests.

From TerraMai: Toms’ One For One slogan is laser etched on Lost Coast Siding for their Glendale, CA location

Conclusion

Lost Coast is a fascinating material. With beautiful weathering, unique texture, incredible versatility and a sustainability story, it’s a textbook example of a great reclaimed wood. It can take on many different looks through stain, paint and texturing techniques or it’s pretty fantastic just how mother nature weathers it. Couple that with different milling options around thickness, width and profile, the installation possibilities become quite numerous. In 2015, Lost Coast was winner of Interior Design’s Best of Year Awards, Best of NeoCon – Gold for Wall Treatments, and HiP award for Workplace Wall Coverings but we have not stopped discovering new uses and applications for Lost Coast. Our latest product introduction is Shiplap 2.0.

We’d love to discuss all the Lost Coast possibilities with you and provide you with samples for your next project.

Ipe decking is a popular trend in Architecture & Design. However, ipe carries with it several issues that make it a less than ideal choice for building projects. Namely, harvesting ipe contributes to deforestation, and due to the likelihood of illegal logging and forged documents, it is a risky purchase. You can read more about the problems with ipe here.

That raises the question: What should architects and designers do when they need durable, attractive decking? There are several sustainable alternatives that are highly resilient. Here are a few woods to consider using instead of ipe.

Where do the best Commercial Decking Woods Originate

Tropical hardwoods make for the best decking materials. These are hard, dense woods that are water and insect resistant, and able to withstand extreme temperature fluctuations. In commercial decking applications, tropical hardwood can last 20 to 50 years depending on installation, care and level of use. But there is a downside, according to INTERPOL, Illegal logging accounts for 50-90% of all forestry activities in key producer tropical forests, such as those of the Amazon Basin, Central Africa and Southeast Asia, and 15-30% of all wood traded globally. Meaning, purchasing tropical hardwoods presents real ethical concerns and should only be done with careful consideration.

Reclaimed Teak Decking: A Strong and Beautiful Option

From TerraMai: Reclaimed Teak is a hardy wood that’s great for decking, flooring, or other applications that require resiliency

In particular, old-growth teak from Southeast Asia is globally renowned as the best teak in the world. It’s extremely robust and looks fantastic. Due to the decline in wild teak forests, teak is often classified as endangered or illegal to purchase. Purchasing reclaimed teak is one ethical method of obtaining old growth teak and its one of the best alternatives to ipe decking. At TerraMai, we reclaim teak from vintage buildings in Southeast Asia, and we work to ensure that the wood is milled locally when possible. Our reclaimed teak decking is also FSC Certified Recycled.

Using reclaimed teak helps preserve standing teak forests and gives these amazing woods another lifetime of use and appreciation. It’s an ideal option for architects and designers seeking a sustainable, durable wood. Another teak source is new, fast growing plantation teak but it does not compare in either looks or durability. Above all, reclaimed teak stands head and shoulders above ipe with regard to sustainability.

From TerraMai: Reclaimed Teak Decking at Imagination Playground in New York City

As far as functionality goes, teak can withstand a wide range of environments; it’s been used everywhere from the summery tropics to the arctic tundra. According to the Wood Database, teak is the gold standard for decay resistance. Teak also weathers extremely well and develops a grey patina as it ages. In terms of appearance, it often bears gold, copper, or tan hues with brown or silver grain highlights. The right teak can even visually resemble ipe if that’s something you desire.

From inVOYAGE: The wellness center at COMO Metropolitan Bangkok features teak decking that contributes to the biophilic atmosphere

Cumaru Decking: A Sustainable Ipe Lookalike

From TerraMai: Water Reclaimed Cumaru Decking

If going for a similar look to ipe, consider cumaru. The two woods are so similar that they’re often confused for one another. Like ipe, cumaru is a rich, vibrant wood with reddish brown tones. Cumaru is also durable and weathers well; it’s colloquially called Brazilian teak. Its high density and longevity make it one of the best woods to choose for decking or other intensive structural purposes. It ages almost identically to teak, gaining a grey patina over time if left unfinished.

Cumaru, like ipe, grows in the same Central and South American regions but cumaru can be sustainably sourced. TerraMai’s cumaru is water reclaimed from Lake Bayano in Panama, which has a unique history. It was one of the many lakes throughout Central America that was flooded decades ago for power generation, submerging vast amounts of tropical wood under water. TerraMai salvages the submerged wood, preventing the unnecessary harvesting of living trees and making use of otherwise forgotten timber.

A Final Note on Illegal Logging

Illegal logging destroys forests but it also causes other economic and social problems. Illegal logging pushes down the market price for timber, lowering prices by 7% to 16% according the  American Forest & Paper Association. Those following legal forest practices cannot compete and are incentivized to join in with other illegal loggers creating a vicious cycle.

There are social implications as well. Many small communities near the illegal logging locations are taken advantage of with human right violations being recorded. It may be tempting to purchase tropical hardwoods at a low price but one must be diligent when checking the chain of custody certification. Ipe and illegal logging are so intertwined, it’s possible that logging companies are transmitting inaccurate or outright false information to the FSC.

Conclusion

It’s clear that ipe decking is not an environmentally sound option. However, there are sustainably sourced woods that can be use in place of ipe. Reclaimed woods are especially beneficial and prevent unnecessary logging, preserving forests around the world. Reclaimed woods can also comply with many green building standards like LEED and WELL. When choosing a decking material that is optimized for both humans and nature, choose a sustainable option. TerraMai currently offers two reclaimed decking materials, teak and cumaru. Teaser Alert! We are working on sourcing a third reclaimed hardwood decking option. Look for more to come as we get closer to introducing this new option.