The myth of wood – Trend toward quality
Trees are a symbol of life. Wood has been an old material and is gaining popularity as a design tool. This is a report in response to recent developments: Bene is introducing new veneers.»Each piece of wood came from a tree and humans need trees to survive on this planet. The spirit of the tree lives on in wood. Wood is a living material, not just dead substance.« Efthymios Warlamis, Wood designer
Wood. These four letters have a deeper meaning beyond cellulose and lignin. Regardless of how much wood is cut, planed, stained or varnished, its vitality and power of growth and creation continue to shine through. It inspires, is authentic and makes us feel secure.
Inspired by this mood we like to be surrounded by wood. Wood wins over humans by its strength - be it at their homes or at the office. Wood is synonymous with quality, durability and comfortable elegance.
Black like ebony
Most recent trends have been embracing dark woods, decorative appearance and coarse structure. Recently, exotic wood types such as Makassar and Zebrano have been re-discovered. The dark brown or black Makassar used to be popular in ancient times and the exclusive Zebrano is revered as one of the finest and decorative wood types. Precious musical instruments, wooden consoles built into the dashboards of luxury cars, exquisite furniture, beautiful inlays and art objects are made of such exotic woods. Exotic woods have recently been re-discovered. Not only for exquisite objects but also for kitchen and bathroom furniture or management offices. Advancement in technology has enabled industrial production and improved quality of wooden surfaces. Woods are varnished open-pored with matt varnish to protect their surfaces without covering their characteristic appearance.
Natural with bold innovations
Aside from advancements in technology, also aesthetical preferences have undergone changes. A few years ago, discreet wooden furniture used to predominate boasting simplicity and uniformity. Light, fine woods with a plain appearance such as beech, birch, cherry and maple used to rank amongst the most popular wood types. While virtual symmetry has been omnipresent for a decade in our digital era, a new desire for plain natural elements is emerging and has also become manifest in furniture design. Strong structures are enthusiastically embraced.
As a result of improved technology, "natural" wooden surfaces appear almost untreated and meet modern trends in terms of durability and feel. After all, not even hard-core nature-lovers want to end up with a splinter. Furthermore, nature never ages – it changes; and its traces of time are appreciated as patina.
Symbol of life
We have always been surrounded by wood, regardless of its shape or form. The forest used to be an important habitat, humans used wood to make tools and weapons, to build shelter and as burning material. No wonder, the word "wood" is one of the oldest in the history of humankind. Its current form can be traced back to the 8th century. It has not changed ever since and reflects the original roots of this word.
Wood has inspired many myths and legends. Many religions and traditions have worshipped trees as a symbol of life. In the meantime, our ancestors' beliefs have been backed by scientific proof. Forests are complex ecosystems. Together with the oceans, they are the biggest influencing factor on global climate. They are the only efficient carbon dioxide absorbers and ensure constant supply of oxygen. Additionally, our forests' richness in species generates an inexhaustible gene pool.
New veneers by Bene
Bene is expanding its selection to offer more individuality and exclusivity: Aside from beech and cherry, oak, maple, nut, Makassar and Zebrano complete the standard product range. This opens a large design portfolio for our customers.
High quality craftsmanship in symbiosis with industrial veneer production and a wide selection yield a premium design instrument that can be used for the entire Bene portfolio. Bene successfully expanded its veneer portfolio by industrialising the second varnishing system for large-pored wooden surfaces. These solvent-free water based finishes comply with Bene's high environmental standards.
Nicole Schemerl-Streben
