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Stairs afford architects and designers innovative design opportunities and are an ideal vehicle to enhance the experience of being in a space. With stairs now highlighted for prominent placement so as to encourage short bouts of exercise throughout the day and viewed as places to facilitate unexpected coworker social ‘collisions’, stair design has become an even larger opportunity for making a statement. In particular, stair treads offer a unique design canvas with some design elements doing double duty to improve safety as well. When stairs stand out, passersby instantly take notice.

Once again, reclaimed wood proves to be an incredibly useful and versatile stair tread material choice. Here are 8 examples of reclaimed wood stair treads for inspiration.

1. Reclaimed teak stair treads make this staircase picturesque

From TerraMai: These teak stair treads increase the enjoyment of using the stairs

There is something a little thrilling about standing on the upper landing and looking down upon a winding multi-flight stairwell. The height coupled with the spiralling pattern captivates and provides a sense of risk giving an adrenaline rush. As explained by Terrapin Bright Green, design elements with the right risk/peril mix can provide a positive dose of dopamine.

This stairwell is an intentional design element to keep students and staff at UC Berkeley Energy BioSciences building literally on their toes. The Institute was created to find technological solutions to the problems associated with climate change, global warming and the rising price and diminishing supplies of fossil fuels.

Reclaimed teak is a wood that draws the eye and warms and nurtures any space. Its natural oils give the wood a luster and richness that gets better over time. Paired with the grey and orange elements, the teak treads in the BioSciences building help balance out the design palette and create a stronger visual presence. Reclaimed teak is well-placed here as a stair tread. This hearty wood is rugged enough to withstand years of many feet traversing up and down the multi-story building.

2. Beefy reclaimed wood stair treads appear to float

From TerraMai: These rich stair treads create a strong biophilic connection

Large, beefy, floating wood stair treads make a powerful statement. Woods like teak, douglas fir, and oak are perfect choices here. The glass baluster used with the stair treads pictured above ensures an open view of the ultra thick reclaimed wood treads and add to the floating on air illusion. Coupled with natural river rock, the wood treads provide an organic, biophilic element to the space, while the glass reflects natural light and opens up the design.

Old growth teak is the most durable and has the best aesthetic as compared to plantation grown teak. An ethical method to source old growth teak is to seek out reclaimed teak since harvesting the remaining supply of old-growth trees is not a viable option. TerraMai’s reclaimed teak is salvaged from vintage buildings and other structures slotted for deconstruction in Southeast Asia.

3. REI leverages reclaimed wood for an immersive shopping experience

From TerraMai: REI in SoHo uses simple yet evocative reclaimed stair treads

REI is passionate about having “our roots remain firmly planted in the outdoors.” That ethos extends to their retail interiors, which resemble the outdoors with their aesthetic and design. Reclaimed wood is a large part of their store design, and their stairs are no exception. Their SoHo location uses reclaimed oak for both the flooring and stair treads to give shoppers the feeling of being in a space dominated by nature. Juxtaposed with elements like exposed piping, the wood goes a long way to foster a biophilic connection and helps warm the store’s industrial design components. The solid oak stair treads are a prominent feature that are both highly functional and make a brand statement.

From TerraMai: The reclaimed wood treads are a central design component of REI SoHo

4. These Doug Fir treads get a boost from the risers for added eye-catching results

From TerraMai: These reclaimed douglas fir stair treads stand out thanks to the dark risers and reinforce Living Computers Museum + Lab’s brand

It’s easy to spice up stair treads and reinforce your brand with a little imagination. While reclaimed wood is already a perfect match to emphasize a sustainable, eco-conscience culture, there are even more possibilities. Consider the stairs pictured above that add text on the risers in a very on-brand manner to further emphasis what the space is all about. These treads are sure to add an element of delight to museum visitors while also keeping their eyes and attention on navigating the stairs.

5. East meets West

From TerraMai: The Seattle Center stairs are comprised of both oak and teak treads to represent receptiveness and cultural sharing.

The stairs at the Seattle Center accomplish many things as they welcome visitors to the center. First, they are beautifully designed and aesthetically pleasing with their gentle curve and well lit risers that help people of all ages and abilities safely navigate the stairs. But they also help represent the organization’s core cultural values some of which are to manage their business with accountability, integrity and commitment to race and social justice while also fostering a collaborative and trusting community.

The stairs are comprised of two reclaimed wood materials, reclaimed oak and reclaimed teak. The choosing of these two woods symbolizes the harmonious meeting of cultures with an east meets west theme. The oak and teak treads alternate every other tread. Stadium style seating accompanies the steps allowing for resting and seating areas that can be used to collaborate or just hang out.

6. These stairs use clever and powerful lighting

From TerraMai: Simple lighting transforms these stairs into an attraction

Another example of lighting turning stairs into attention-grabbing design pieces are these stairs in Lincoln Square. The stained oak treads are illuminated from underneath to cast a band of light on the back portion of each tread. It’s both an attractive design concept and a practical addition, as it helps people safely ascend and descend the stairs. Trips and falls are the major source of injuries and lost time among the working population with around 1000 major injuries occurring in the workplace on stairs each year. Clear visual cues for surface changes help avoid trip hazards and this is especially true for stairs.

7. Keeping it light and open, especially in smaller spaces

From TerraMai: Reclaimed wood treads utilize the back wall to add interest and safety

The contrasting lighter stone wall allows each of the reclaimed teak treads to stand out so users can truly appreciate them. Eliminating the risers keeps this staircase from feeling too closed in and dark and the stone wall serves as a backdrop to visually separate the treads for safer navigation. As a whole, the staircase is warm, airy and inviting providing a calming space.

8. This modern staircase uses reclaimed basketball court wood

From Schuchart: This staircase and hallway use wood reclaimed from an old basketball court

Software company Tableau worked with renowned architect and design firm Gensler for their Seattle office, which required the demolition of a three story athletic club. Instead of hauling all of the demo materials to the landfill, Gensler repurposed them, which resulted in an aesthetic that honored the space’s previous life. Especially eye-catching is this staircase that’s made of wood reclaimed from the club’s basketball court. Columnal balusters and a view of the original court lines make this staircase a one-of-a-kind installation.

Conclusion

Well-designed stairs can boost the appeal of any built environment. Reclaimed wood stair treads present an elegant solution to reinforce brand messaging, provides biophilic benefits and powerful aesthetics. No longer out-of-sight, out-of-mind and relegated to an enclosed sterile stairwell, stairs are now being designed to make brand statements, facilitate interactions, get people moving and become a central design element––it’s all about creating a better experience for occupants.

When choosing reclaimed wood for a space, there are a number of options and factors to consider. If sourcing locally is important, Western Red Cedar is a favorable option for an installation in the Pacific Northwest. If the design calls for a sense of elegance and sophistication, a tropical hardwood such as teak is a great choice. There’s a perfect wood and finish for every situation.

One tried and true choice is reclaimed oak. Oak is durable, takes a finish well and is a versatile design element that will complement just about any aesthetic. TerraMai offers several oak options. In this post, I’d like to shine the spotlight on Mission Oak Engineered Flooring and Paneling; our homage to America’s Mission and Craftsman eras. To illustrate the power and versatility of this wood, here are 14 examples of Mission Oak in action.

1. Mission Oak complements this office’s industrial-chic environment

From TerraMai: Mission Oak helps to create visual interest in this space

Reclaimed wood works very well with the industrial-chic aesthetic that’s prevalent in many contemporary office spaces. Mission Oak in particular is a great choice due to its character inclusive of occasional surface checking and filled nail holes. Oak’s natural tan and khaki hues with darker grain features help make the wood stand out and draw attention. When paired with industrial elements like exposed piping and brick walls, Mission Oak softens these harder elements making the space feel less stark. It also adds a touch of biophilia to an otherwise industrial atmosphere, which will increase productivity, boost morale, and enhance the overall experience.

2. Mission Oak adds visual contrast

From TerraMai: Mission Oak flooring provides contrast with the darker elements in this space

Mission Oak Engineered Flooring adds lighter tones to balance out the darker elements in this installation. The flooring provides neutral, warming elements and the result is a more beautiful, inviting space.

3. Social spaces open up with Mission Oak

From TerraMai: This lounge space features expansive Mission Oak flooring

This light and airy communal office space is grounded with Mission Oak’s warm and welcoming flooring. Mission Oak with a poly finish keeps the natural oak aesthetic and enhances this bright space. In addition, natural materials like reclaimed wood in general are great for lounges because it helps to reduce stress and lower blood pressure, contributing to a more relaxing experience. Multiple studies have shown that wood improves a person’s emotional state and level of self expression. All the more reason to incorporate reclaimed wood into social and collaborative work spaces.

4. Mission Oak supports occupant well-being

From TerraMai: This minimalist hallway is rounded out with reclaimed Mission Oak Paneling and Mission Oak clad beams

The WELL Building Standard emphasizes designing the entire facility for occupant well-being. This includes hallways and stairwells that are often overlooked and the employee-only back-end environment of hotels, airports, hospitals and retail establishments where customers never frequent. One way to offset the often stark lack of nature inherent in these spaces is to use reclaimed wood. This will create a natural connection that better satisfies the innate human need to participate in nature.

From TerraMai: Mission Oak’s unique character adds interest to this hallway

5. Mission Oak provides brand and customer experience in this retail space

From TerraMai: This Sam Edelman store uses Mission Oak Flooring to add an extra touch of class that mirrors the brand message

Designers of retail establishments select materials that convey and reflect the retail store’s brand and values. Materials also need to enhance the customer’s experience in the store. The beautiful aesthetic of reclaimed wood is ideal for these spaces and has been shown to increase perceived product value.

Sam Edelman is one company known for using reclaimed wood in its stores. Sam Edelman’s story is quintessentially American. From simple beginnings and hard work, he used his entrepreneurial spirit to pursue a design passion for shoes, always persevering and following his intuition to re-invent himself. Mission Oak has a similar vibe, from humble beginnings as a workhorse material utilized for industrial shipping, it has been reclaimed and turned into beautiful flooring and paneling. Pictured above is a retail location that uses Mission Oak Flooring to provide warm tones and texture.

6. This bank uses Mission Oak Flooring for a professional look

From TerraMai: Reclaimed Mission Oak Flooring with Cowboy Coffee at US AmeriBank in Florida

Reclaimed wood works well in any space that calls for a professional, refined aesthetic including hotels, institutions, banks, government buildings, and restaurants. US AmeriBank uses Mission Oak Engineered Flooring with a Cowboy Coffee finish to deliver a soothing banking experience. The dark flooring makes a striking impression and conveys to customers that US AmeriBank takes their banking needs seriously.

7. 111 Washington uses a creative Mission Oak Paneling layout that draws the eye

From TerraMai: Mission Oak paneling cleverly fills the spaces in between elevators at 111 Washington

Designed by renowned architect Minoru Yamasaki, 111 Washington Square in Minneapolis is conscious of both its tenants and the environment. It aims to create a workspace that empowers workers to perform at their best, and it also promotes sustainability across the board. The design achieves these two goals simultaneously by using plenty of reclaimed wood, which is not only sustainable but also conducive to more productive work. One of my favorite installations of reclaimed wood is the Mission Oak Paneling in the elevator lobby. The planks were installed at an angle drawing the eye up to the laser cut metal ceiling panels. The lighting is well designed making the Mission Oak Paneling look even more luminous.

8. Mission Oak Paneling makes a visual impact

From TerraMai: At Station 101 in Westwood, MA,  Mission Oak White Engineered Paneling

The ultra-high ceilings, abundant natural light, spaciousness, seating variety, living walls, potted plants and Mission Oak Paneling all work together to inspire conversation and creativity in Station 101’s collaborative social gathering space.

9. Mission Oak Red offers rich variation

From TerraMai: Gravitate! uses a wonderful combination of Mission Oak Red Flooring and Lost Coast Redwood Weathered Paneling

While Mission Oak White is known for being more even toned, Mission Oak Red boasts a bit more variety. The copper tones instill a vibrancy, and the wood carries all the character and trademarks expected of Mission Oak. The communal space at Gravitate! combined reclaimed red oak along with Lost Coast Weathered Paneling to naturally energize people for the most productive meetings.

10. REI uses Mission Oak to create a strong customer experience

From TerraMai: Mission Oak Red Flooring at REI in Denver reflects the brand and makes for an immersive customer experience

REI is one of the world’s most famous outdoor gear retailers. Naturally, they want their retail stores to reflect their brand and give the customer an unforgettable experience. Since reclaimed wood creates a strong natural connection, it’s a great choice for REI. Their Denver flagship store uses Mission Oak Red Engineered Flooring to echo the brand’s outdoorsy aesthetic and bring shoppers closer to nature. Mission Oak Flooring will handle REI’s high customer traffic and convey REI’s brand values. In addition, social research shows that shoppers spend most of their time looking down. Thus, a retailers floor is its fifth wall. Wood makes an emotional connection and the warmth, texture and character of reclaimed wood can create a richer shopping experience.

11. Mission Oak Flooring draws you into this space

From TerraMai: This room in The Hotel at Oberlin uses Mission Oak Red Engineered Flooring

The Hotel at Oberlin is a wonderful example of sustainable design. It is one of only 5 hotels in the United States to have received LEED Platinum Certification. Fittingly, the Hotel has several environmental initiatives in place, and it uses many green building materials including Mission Oak Red Engineered Flooring. The flooring does more than just look nice. It also enhances the environment; reclaimed wood is a top material choice for hospitality spaces due to its calming effects.

12. This office bolsters contemporary design with reclaimed wood

From TerraMai: Enthought’s office space is clean, minimal, and inspired, and the Mission Oak flooring fits right in

As a forward-thinking software company, Enthought wanted an office space that would be just as innovative. The company brought on Lauckgroup (which has since become part of Perkins+Will) to design a beautiful, inspirational workplace that combined timeless design concepts with present day trends. To that end, Lauckgroup utilized reclaimed Mission Oak Red Engineered Flooring. The dark grain and warm tones of the wood complement the industrial setting and provide workers with a biophilic connection, which is especially important if a room has less than optimal daylight or limited window views of nature.

From TerraMai: Mission Oak flooring unifies the design of Enthought’s office

13. Capital One’s office pairs Mission Oak paneling with bold design

From TerraMai: Capital One in Chicago is clad in beautiful Mission Oak Engineered Paneling

Using human-centered design thinking, Capital One is reinventing banking with their Capital One Cafes. Banking and financial planning can cause anxiety with consumers. Capital One is determined to transform the customer experience. TerraMai’s reclaimed Mission Oak is a key element in these customer-centered spaces. Mission Oak with a tinted White Oil finish works well alongside the bold red and blue brand colors.

While Capital One is best known for its financial services, it’s also very environmentally minded. About 50% of their office portfolio has been certified through building standards like LEED, and the company has made LEED Silver Certification a requirement for all new projects.

14. The one-of-a-kind Space Crab Treehouse stays sturdy with Mission Oak Flooring

From Nelson Treehouse: This unique project made use of sustainable materials for a long lifespan

The Space Crab isn’t your typical architecture project. Built by Nelson Treehouse and Supply for Camp Southern Ground, the Space Crab is an expansive treehouse that blends futuristic design and biophilic design. Longevity was a prime concern for this project; the designers wanted it to last at least 100 years. As such, the Space Crab is built from resilient, natural materials such as steel and reclaimed wood. The project used Mission Oak Flooring with a Driftwood finish for the main treehouse interior, and the result is really fun and inviting.

Conclusion

Mission Oak is a remarkable wood that can perform in high traffic flooring areas, and delivers biophilic components as well as a variety of aesthetics. While it’s inspired by early American history, it’s a versatile and timeless wood. In addition, reclaimed oak––both white and red–– is a sturdy wood that will stand the test of time. I hope these 14 examples give you inspiration for your own projects and encourage you to take a closer look at reclaimed Mission Oak.

Stairs are an architectural feature that not only provide an opportunity to create a focal point but well-designed, beautiful stairs encourage physical activity and create opportunities for spontaneous interactions and can even be places for collaboration. With the biophilic movement and building standards like WELL, Fitwel and Living Building Challenge, stairs present interesting opportunities to contribute to occupant wellness. Here are some exceptional examples of stair treads to inspire your own projects.

Captivate people’s attention with multipurpose stair treads

From Dezeen: Evernote’s office features padded treads, encouraging employees to sit and collaborate

Multipurpose design is at an all-time high. In an effort to maximize the usability of a space, architects are experimenting with modular design. When applied to stairs, this results in some unique concepts that are practical but also eye-catching and fun. At Evernote, the designers turned the idea of stair treads on its head by padding some of the treads, creating seating spaces on one side of a staircase. In an office setting, this concept encourages social interaction and on-the-spot collaboration, which results in higher productivity. The design is rounded out by selecting wood for the stairs, which warms the space and provides numerous biophilic benefits.

There are many other situations in which stair treads become more useful when doubled as seating. Retail spaces, universities, libraries, and event spaces can all make use of staircase seating. This also opens the door for designers to imagine new ways to integrate stairs into the built environment. By considering stairs as dual-purpose steps and seats, designers can easily and efficiently optimize a space. This is especially useful in smaller spaces, where multipurpose design is a necessity. At AutoGravity, the stairs incorporate a slide to serve as another way to convey the company’s innovative and creative brand values.

From Lawrence Anderson: AutoGravity’s stairs and stadium seating provide a creative and fun place to connect and collaborate

Outdoor spaces can also utilize multipurpose seating. Bleachers are common outdoor seating options, but they’re not ideal as stairs. Instead, wide outdoor staircases can double as seating for large events. One example is the Plassen Cultural Center in Norway designed by 3XN Architects. Renowned for its jazz concerts, the Center features an expansive staircase that’s used for seating during events. “By using steps instead of traditional seats, the atmosphere becomes more informal,” said 3XN creative director Kim Herforth Nielsen. “By turning the building into an integrated part of the public square it becomes more than a building. It turns into a piece of land art, which adds an extra dimension to the place and generates life.”

From Dezeen: The Plassen Cultural Center’s outdoor steps transform into casual seating during events

Lighted stair treads create visual interest

From TerraMai: Lincoln Square backlit Mission Oak Driftwood Stair Treads.

Architects and designers are placing more importance on stairs. Meeting compliance standards is a must but designers are adept at finding ways to design in function that are also eye-catching features. There are very practical reasons behind stair tread design. In a presentation for the 2014 International Conference on Universal Design, architects Karen Kim and Edward Steinfeld explored the effect of stairway interaction on users. They concluded that higher tread visibility can improve stair safety if used correctly. This means that drawing more attention to the actual treads can keep user distraction to a minimum, thereby reducing the amount of accidents.

While stair treads can be simple, more designers are using them as canvasses to unify a space’s design and create a stronger experience. The possibilities are endless. Treads can extend an underlying theme present in a built environment, or they can introduce a new design element that complements the existing architecture.

Aesthetically Pleasing Stairs Encourage Short Periods of Physical Activity

From TerraMai: The reclaimed teak stairs at UC Berkeley Energy Biosciences Building are a central feature that keep students and faculty on the go.

Stairwells hidden from view are becoming a thing of the past. To encourage intermittent bouts of physical activity, it is important for stairs to be readily visible to building occupants. People are more likely to take the stairs if stairs are in sight and aesthetically pleasing. WELL’s Fitness Concept includes the Feature, Interior Fitness Circulation, which specifies the integration of interior pathways and stairs within the built environment in an effort to reduce sedentary tendencies. Part 3 of the Feature focuses on incorporating aesthetic elements throughout the stair; artwork, music, daylighting, window views, light levels and biophilic elements.

Biophilic stair treads can improve occupant health and wellness

From the Miller Hull: The Center’s stairwells offer ample light and shadows providing biophilic benefits to occupants

Biophilic design is extremely popular for its proven ability to enhance wellness in the built environment. As a holistic design philosophy, biophilic design ought to be integrated into every part of a building, and that includes stair treads. Using wood for treads is a simple and cost-effective way to incorporate biophilia. Reclaimed wood is particularly ideal because it fosters a strong visual and material connection to nature, and its nearly universal aesthetic appeal looks fantastic in any space.

The staircase at the Living Building Challenge certified Bullitt Center in Seattle, WA (pictured above) is an exemplary example of biophilic designed stairs. The irresistible staircase features fresh air, crafted wood and steel clad treads, ample daylight and stunning views of the Seattle skyline.

From Contemporist: This one-of-a-kind staircase in a Tel Aviv office building uses poplar wood to create a staircase that winds into a tornado-shaped balcony

While less common, using greenery on staircases is another biophilic option. This creates what is dubbed as a “living staircase.” The most famous example is located in Ampersand, a London office building. The verdant staircase was designed by Paul Cocksedge Studio and features a garden that winds down the length of the handrail. The treads weren’t overlooked either; FSC certified American white oak was used for its bright, minimal appearance. The Ampersand staircase is so noteworthy because it demonstrates how the different elements of a staircase can come together perfectly.

From Paul Cocksedge Studio: The Living Staircase is a breathtaking example of biophilic design

Experiential staircases with unique treads provide memorable focal points

From Dezeen: A steel and wood staircase is the star of this hallway at Piercy & Company

Experiential design is another idea that’s changing how Architecture & Design professionals are viewing the built environment. Experiential design is all about occupant-building interaction, so built elements that encourage such interaction are crucial. There’s also a branding aspect involved. Experiential designers believe that occupants ought to be engaged in a multi-sensorial narrative that increases the enjoyment of spending time in a space, and branding is critical to creating that narrative. When occupants feel connected to both the purpose and design of a built environment, an immersive experience is created.

So what would an experiential staircase look like? In short, it would include interesting design, attractive treads, and brand integration. The staircase at Piercy & Company (pictured above) is an excellent example. Its suspended steps and gently sloping handrails contribute to the building’s airy, minimalist feel. Moreover, the beautiful wood chosen for the treads and handrails contrasts well with the white steel. All in all, it’s a stunning staircase that never fails to draw the eye. It is so attractive that occupants are sure to use it often leading to chance meetings and greater worker interaction.

From TerraMai: Text on the risers of the reclaimed Douglas Fir treads reinforce Living Computers Museum + Lab branding.

Staircases are ideal candidates for experiential design since most occupants in a building with stairs often use them every day. It’s a great opportunity to take something common and fully integrate it into your brand and vision. Even a little change like installing new stair treads can boost worker morale and increase satisfaction.

Conclusion

Stair treads are more than just a functional element. In the same way that door frames accentuate doors, treads accentuate staircases. These inspiring examples show that it’s possible for stairs to transcend their obvious function; they can also become workstations, collaboration spots, event spaces and fitness components.

Best of all, it’s easy for your stair treads to be a stand out design feature. All you need is the right materials and a bit of inspiration.

Cedar’s durability, versatility and appearance make it a perfect choice for exterior applications and position it as one of the more popular woods specified by Architects and Designers. While cedar is used for a range applications, both interior and exterior, I thought I’d bring you a closer look specifically at cedar siding. Here are 8 projects that put a nice spin on cedar siding.

1. Japan’s Takano Nursery uses vertical cedar siding to accentuate the building’s geometry

From Inhabitat: This nursery’s cedar siding magnifies the building’s architecture of curves and stark angles

When Suga Architects Office was enlisted to design a new kindergarten in Kobe, Japan, the team rose to the challenge and implemented many facets of biophilic and sustainable design. The result was a beautiful, interesting geometric building featuring a rooftop garden and a green play area. For the exterior, Suga chose red cedar with a spectrum of tones from light khaki to medium brown.

This smart use of cedar siding accomplishes two important goals. First, it draws attention to the nursery’s thoughtful design by wrapping around the curves and emphasizing the angles of the building. Second, it provides many biophilic benefits for the children and faculty. People rate building’s with wood exteriors as homier, warmer and more inviting. All important factors for very young students and anxious parents. It goes to show how material choice can highlight important architectural features and focus on specific occupant concerns when designing contemporary buildings.

2. Cedar siding is fresh and inviting on Llwynderw School’s rounded facade

From Building Design index: Tiers of warm cedar siding give a welcoming feel to this school’s exterior

Llwynderw School in Wales doesn’t look like a typical primary school. The minimalist design is partially encased in what the head architect dubbed a “cedar shell,” a rounded, tiered section clad with cedar shingles. From the siding to the ample greenery surrounding the facility, the school’s cottage-inspired look fosters emotions of comfort and peace in students and teachers. The use of tiered siding is particularly noteworthy, creating visual interest and repetitive pattern without overwhelming the overall architecture.

3. This office building greets occupants with warm cedar siding

From Wood Works: The facade of Cornerstone Office Building is clad with planks of cedar siding

Purposive design is becoming one of the most important schools of thought in Architecture & Design. Whether it takes the form of experience design or intentional environment, purposive design is everywhere. The idea is that every part of a built environment should contribute to the creation of an experience for occupants, and thus material selection is highly important. The Cornerstone Office Building in Squamish, British Columbia embraces this philosophy. The exterior with its abundant use of glass, steel and concrete utilizes wood as a counterweight to soften and warm the building’s exterior. Notably, the central section of cedar siding that travels the height of the facade draws the eye up to the oversized cedar lined cantilevers. Cedar is local and thus provides a strong place-based material link to the environment. The cedar siding is the element that transforms and grounds the building exterior making it a unique and lively building in downtown Squamish, BC.

4. Columbia Sportswear maintains curb appeal with vibrant cedar

From Continuing Education: The attractive cedar exterior of this Columbia store in Seattle helps to draw in passersby

Since cedar is a sturdy, beautiful wood, it’s used by some of the biggest companies in the world, including Columbia Sportswear. Columbia’s Seattle store is clad in local Western Red Cedar that tonally complements the blue signage and is a great fit for their brand. Columbia has a rich heritage and global reputation for quality, innovation and performance. Cedar is the perfect building material to represent the brand and appeal to outdoor enthusiasts.  Placed on a highly visible corner, the cedar-covered store turns heads and makes for a stunning first impression. It’s also one of the most striking stores on the block thanks to the cedar. This is one of my favorite examples of how using wood in a highly urbanized environment can lead to more customers coming in the door.

5. A cedar rain screen elevates the exterior design of the Yale School of Art Gallery

From KieranTimberlake: The Gallery cleverly uses cedar siding to facilitate rainwater drainage

Award-winning firm KieranTimberlake was commissioned to work on the Yale School of Art Gallery, a project that demanded a careful attention to detail. One of the most inspired features is the cedar siding that acts as a rainscreen. According to the architects, “The cedar planks are beveled on the top and bottom edges to force water to drain to the outside, spaced 1/8″ apart for air circulation, allowing the cladding to expand when wet and dry evenly on both sides. This layered wall construction creates a lattice-like scrim at the entry and a pattern of parted planes at the corners of the building.”

This intersection of form and function demonstrates the flexibility that cedar can bring to a commercial project. It also proves that siding can be just as innovative as any other aspect of architecture. It’s always refreshing to see materials and elements being used in unconventional ways that help to further the art of design.

6. Granero Office Building offers another example of an innovative cedar rain screen

From Coates Design: Rich cedar siding works with lush plant life to create a biophilic environment

The use of cedar siding as a rain screen is gaining traction, and Granero Office Building on Washington’s Bainbridge Island is another great use case. Formerly a dilapidated barn, this small office is extremely eye-catching due to the cedar rain screen that covers the facade. The multi-toned wood reflects the verdant landscapes of the Pacific Northwest, anchoring the design and providing local context. It’s interesting to note that while both Granero Office Building and the Yale School of Art Gallery utilize cedar rain screens, they fulfill different aesthetic goals. The Gallery’s cedar screen is designed to reflect the gallery’s creative sensibility and adds a touch of biophilia to the building, while Granero’s connection to its immediate environment makes it feel organic and authentic.

7. Haywire’s striking cedar entrance makes a design statement

From TerraMai: Haywire uses reclaimed cedar siding for its branded entryway

As you’ve seen in many of these examples, many companies opt to create an attention-grabbing facade that immediately establishes their branding. New York-based marketing agency Haywire does just this with a cedar entryway that’s instantly noticeable. TerraMai’s reclaimed Western Red Cedar Siding is at work here, and it was the perfect match for Haywire’s brand. The cedar’s unique beauty and boldness echo Haywire’s ethos of commitment and success, and the logo emblazoned across the front completes the design.

8. Cedar siding can unify old and new structures

From KieranTimberlake: This middle school uses cedar siding to create visual unity

Additions to any built environment can sometimes result in a lack of unity throughout. KieranTimberlake found a way around this for Sidwell Friends Middle School by using cedar siding on the school’s extensions. This helps the newer parts of the school appear more natural and organic. This is a truly unique method of using cedar siding to accomplish a specific architectural purpose. It expands on the idea that a building should be a holistic experience for every occupant, and it’s executed brilliantly here.

Conclusion

Today’s architects and designers are leveraging cedar siding in ways that enhance projects and create innovation in the industry. It’s enlightening to look over these projects to see how architects and designers continue to find new and unique ways to integrate known, resilient and trustworthy materials into their work.

If you’re considering cedar for your next project, take a look at reclaimed Western Red Cedar siding. TerraMai’s Western Red Cedar is reclaimed from Vancouver Island, consisting of standing dead trees and found logs abandoned from forestry practices. Typically, this rejected wood is chipped into mulch. TerraMai works with partners to reclaim this discarded wood to transform it into truly useful and beautiful products. Naturally resistant to rot and insects, and a natural thermal insulator, cedar is a wonderful wood for commercial siding.