Washed ashore by the continuous dynamic nature of water, driftwood is one of the most inspiring materials an artist can work with. Deprived of the liberty to completely change the material they work with in order to keep the uniqueness of each piece, driftwood furniture designers strive to create modern driftwood furniture and décor using the material’s soft, time-stamped features.
Sculpted by the ongoing influence of water and sand into smooth versions of themselves, bleached by the sun and capturing the essence of long erosion in their fascinating texture, driftwood blocks can be transformed into attention-grabbing decorative and functional items.
In nature, driftwood provides shelter for birds and stand at the base of sand dunes, but once these wood pieces bearing the continuous movement of water are found washed ashore by creative minds, they are transformed into precious decorations or furniture items and are sent on their way to beautify your home.
Washed ashore, driftwood becomes the source for inspirational pieces of furniture and décor – mirror frames, furniture, hangers, sculptures and so on rekindle the beauty of wood first sculpted by the natural environment. This seems to be a fruitful collaboration between artists and nature that leads to constructing a personal connection with the product of natural forces. Drift lumber from shipwrecks and other man-made wooden objects can be salvaged to become useful again.
Aside the influence of water, sand and time, driftwood benefits from another interesting feature – its uniqueness. Each piece of wood was carefully defined by natural forces in unique shapes and textures, creating the base for the construction of a beach-reminiscent design.
Restless wave action shapes some amazing pieces of wood that can successfully be used to compose a large palette of products. Take as examples these beautiful furniture collections: The Tikibaq folding screen was designed by Bleu Nature to be used outdoors, lending surrounding space an imposing atmosphere, created by the material’s texture and the composition’s sinuous arrangement. Standing on a lacquered stainless steel base, the driftwood pieces shape an organic decorating item to use where you need to define the outdoor space.
Another design from Bleu Nature displays an inspiring collection of driftwood – the Qilak armchair and sofa (in the photo below) were created by the French manufacturers to bring an inspired combination of driftwood and modern design to any home in search of a beach-inspired design.
Baptized By Nature driftwood furniture collection by Catherine Op de Beeck (first three photos) captures the beauty of eco-friendly furniture design in a natural furniture collection displaying logs as the main focal point. Tables and shelves, towel racks, lounge chairs and vases all have these fascinating pieces of driftwood intersecting with other materials to shape modern designs incorporating aged driftwood in a unique collection.
Driftwood challenges the mind to guess each piece’s history and character. Abandoned pieces of wood find a new life under the attentive supervision of talented craftsmen, contributing to our understanding and acceptance of nature’s uninterrupted influence on our life.
Examples Of Driftwood Features
1. Coastal chandelier. Smooth, light driftwood is a winner in decor because it works with every color scheme. This expensive-looking chandelier was actually made by the homeowner.
2. Rustic floor lamp. For the less handy among us, it’s never a bad idea to leave lighting to the pros. This driftwood floor lamp, purchased from Trianon Design in Toronto, might be a good option.
4. Dramatic in planters. Using driftwood vertically in planters can be as natural as using trees or plants, but it’s less conventional. These planters make a grand statement against such a simply decorated backdrop, and their slight variations in form give a healthy twist to the symmetry.
6. Hardy heart. Its neutrality doesn’t mean that driftwood must always be cast in a supporting role. When layered in multiples, it can become the thread that ties everything else together. A material like driftwood — which can be found in many shapes, sizes, species and textures —lends itself easily to artful and varied combinations.
8. Awesome for air plants. Not only can you mount driftwood as art, but you can plant greenery in it too.
10. Exterior excellence. You can use a driftwood stain to get a weathered look on a home’s exterior. Choosing a material whose aesthetic appeal lies in its aged appearance ensures that the structure can’t help but age gracefully. Furthermore, the building looks rooted in time and place, which can be a difficult feat for angular modernist homes.
Frequently Asked Questions About Driftwood Home Decor
What is driftwood?
Driftwood is wood that has been washed ashore by the action of winds, tides, or waves. It is typically found along coastlines, riverbanks, and lakeshores. The unique journey of driftwood through nature, being shaped and smoothed by water, sand, and sun, gives it a one-of-a-kind appearance, making it an ideal material for home decor.
Why is driftwood popular for home decor?
Driftwood is popular for home decor because of its natural, rustic charm and eco-friendly nature. Each piece of driftwood has a unique shape, size, and texture, giving it an organic and artistic appeal. Incorporating driftwood into your home decor adds a touch of coastal elegance and brings a sense of serenity and warmth to your living space.
How can I use driftwood in my home decor?
There are countless ways to incorporate driftwood into your home decor. Here are a few ideas:
- Driftwood wall art: Create eye-catching wall hangings or sculptures
- Furniture: Use driftwood as a base for coffee tables, benches, or shelves
- Lighting fixtures: Craft driftwood chandeliers or table lamps
- Mirrors: Design driftwood-framed mirrors for a rustic touch
- Centerpieces: Arrange driftwood with candles, flowers, or succulents for a stunning focal point
Is driftwood safe to use in home decor?
Yes, driftwood is generally safe to use in home decor. However, it’s essential to properly clean and sanitize the wood before using it to ensure it’s free from insects, bacteria, or mold. You can clean driftwood by scrubbing it with a brush and a solution of water and bleach, followed by thorough rinsing and drying in the sun.
Can I use driftwood from my local beach or riverbank for home decor?
While it’s tempting to collect driftwood from your local beach or riverbank for your home decor projects, you should first check the rules and regulations in your area. Some locations have restrictions on collecting driftwood to protect the natural environment and preserve habitats for wildlife.
Where can I buy driftwood for home decor?
If you can’t collect driftwood locally, you can purchase it from various sources, such as:
- Online marketplaces: Websites like Etsy or eBay often have sellers offering driftwood pieces for home decor
- Home decor stores: Many specialty stores sell driftwood items or raw driftwood for DIY projects
- Craft fairs and art festivals: Local artisans may create and sell driftwood decor at these events
Remember to choose responsibly sourced driftwood to ensure you’re making an eco-friendly choice for your home decor.