In the world of commercial design, where trends shift and budgets are tight, finding versatile materials that deliver on both aesthetics and functionality can be a challenge.
We all know wood is a timeless material, but when it comes to commercial interiors, two titans reign supreme: American White Oak and European Oak. Both offer undeniable charm and functionality, but what truly sets them apart, and how can you leverage their unique characteristics to create showstopping commercial spaces? Let’s dive into the world of oak and unlock its design potential!
Cuts & Grades: Tailoring Oak to Your Design Intent
Cuts
American White Oak comes in four primary cuts.
European Oak is only available in Live Sawn.
- Plain Sawn: This classic cut showcases the familiar “cathedral” grain pattern, perfect for a warm and traditional feel.
- Quarter Sawn: Renowned for its distinctive “flake” appearance, Quarter Sawn offers a touch of modern flair and increased stability.
- Rift Cut: This cut boasts a remarkably straight grain pattern, ideal for clean lines and minimalist aesthetics.
- Live Sawn: Traditional European cutting technique that illustrates the characteristics of the entire log (mixed grain) in most every plank.
Grades
Oak is available in a variety of grades, each offering a unique visual story:
Select or Prime
This grade features a clean and uniform appearance with minimal to no knots allowed.
Light Rustic
This grade allows for some character markings, color variation and small to mid sizes knots, perfect for adding a touch of casual charm.
Rustic or Character
This grade embraces the natural variations in the wood, allowing for larger knots, small sound cracks, variation and sapwood.
Plank Width is Your Canvas: Forget limitations!
Oak, specifically in wood flooring, ranges from narrow strips to a whopping 12″ and beyond, creating a plethora of design possibilities:
- Narrow Planks (3″- 5″) create a classic and elegant look, ideal for smaller spaces or areas with intricate design elements. 5” planks are most common in commercial spaces.
- Wide Planks (6″- 12″+) make a bold statement and exude a sense of grandeur. Perfect for showcasing the beauty of the grain and creating a sense of spaciousness.
The Magic of Stain: Transforming Oak for Any Color Palette
One of the hidden superpowers of oak is its incredible ability to take stain! This opens a world of design possibilities, allowing you to tailor the wood to perfectly complement your overall color scheme. Be creative!
- Natural or Raw wood Finish: Highlight the inherent warmth and natural color tones of the wood with a clear coat or light stain.
- Deep Tones: Embrace a sophisticated and dramatic look with rich stains like walnut or espresso.
- Modern and Trendy: Opt for bold colors or cerused grain to create a unique brand statement.
Durability You Can Trust: The Janka Hardness Advantage
Both American White Oak and European Oak are ideal for high-traffic commercial spaces like lobbies, retail floors and stairs.
- Janka Hardness: This rating measures a wood’s resistance to denting and wear. White Oak falls midrange around 1360 hardness, coupled with its inherent open grain they are both considered incredibly durable.
Benefits of Oak for Breathtaking Wood Floors
- Durability: Oak’s open grain and Janka rating translates to long-lasting and resilient wood floors, perfect for withstanding the constant wear and tear of commercial spaces.
- Timeless Appeal: With a wide array of widths, grades and cuts to choose from Oak floors offer a classic and sophisticated look that never goes out of style, adding lasting value to your commercial space.
- Sustainable Choice: Oak is a readily available and renewable resource, making it a sustainable choice for eco-conscious projects.
Conclusion: Oak – Your Design Powerhouse
Ultimately, the choice between American White Oak and European Oak depends on your specific design goals. Yet one thing’s for sure: with their exceptional durability, versatility, and endless staining possibilities, both these oaks are guaranteed to elevate your commercial interior design projects to the next level.
So, the next time you’re brainstorming materials, consider the timeless elegance and endless options available with Oak – it might just be your new go-to for stunning and sustainable commercial design.