It's not uncommon for designers to discuss the color trends and furnishings that have the ability to transcend trends, but what about materials? Lewis Hamilton's former living space encourages us to think about the type of accents and materials that will look just as good in 100 years – and nothing leads this conversation like wood.
In his space, the F1 champion accentuated the home's wooden architectural features – starting with the exposed wooden beams, floating staircase, and the light wood flooring that flows through the room. The material's natural tones interrupt the primarily monochromatic color scheme, bringing warmth to the cool white paint tones and black furniture.
In a space like Hamilton's, accentuating the wooden tones is easy, considering how prominent these features are around the space. However, as designers explain, it's possible to incorporate wood with simpler methods, including furniture pieces and accessories.
'Using wood elements like beams, furniture, and accessories is a great way to infuse warmth and texture into a room. As well as strengthening connections to nature which can boost mood and overall well-being, rooms that incorporate wooden elements often feel inherently cosier because of the natural warmth and grounding effect wood brings,' comments Claire Garner, the director of Claire Garner Design Studio.
According to Garner, light woods, like pine and oak (similar to those seen in Hamilton's space), bring a 'soft, Scandinavian-inspired warmth' – meaning they're perfect for monochromatic schemes like the driver's. Meanwhile, darker woods like mahogany or walnut have a rich, cozier feel.
'Don’t be afraid to mix different wood finishes in the same space; this will create a more eclectic and interesting space,' Garner adds.
Plus, she is not alone in her observations. Katerina Tchevytchalova, the director of the interior design studio K'arte Design, recommends styling a room like Hamilton's –complementing rustic wooden accents with contemporary decorating features.
'What I love about bringing wood into projects is how it pairs with other natural materials and finishes. For example, using wood against fabrics like linens can create an eco-chic relaxing aesthetic that is perfect for bedrooms,' she says. 'Wood also has a warm effect on an interior because of its ability to beautifully age over time so it grows together with the house and the client,' Tchevytchalova adds.
Alternatively, we love these wooden accessories, perfect for every living room, handpicked below.
We love the unique style of ecological piece, perfect for practical and artistic use. It'll impress in every space, but looks best in a black and white living room (like Lewis's).
These wooden trays look beautiful atop every coffee table, console, or countertop. It's the perfect place to store accessories in any living room.
Made from natural Acacia wood and cork, this set of four coasters nests into each other when not in use and would work perfectly for little matching trinket trays.
Beyond the Lewis-inspired living room, she suggests introducing wooden accents into the kitchen in a strategic, surprising way.
'When it comes to kitchens, using wood on the underside of an island adds an element of surprise and “softens” the overall look, especially if there are a lot of high-tech appliances on display,' she says. 'Plus, cabinetry in lighter wood tones adds warmth and functional storage without making the room feel crowded. This can also look more expensive than painted finishes.'
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