FINE GRAIN

TIMBER FLOORBOARDS INSTANTLY IMBUE A SPACE WITH GRAVITAS AND GRACE - AND THERE ARE PLENTY OF OTHER BENEFITS, TOO

- CHRIS PEARSON

Australians love timber boards – and it’s clear why. They combine toughness with tactility, while the grain lends a decorative element. “Natural timber provides an authentic warmth and depth to your home unlike any other finish,” says Nicole Canty of Choices Flooring. “The patina exhibits a unique finish and colour, making it perfect for an individually tailored interior.” Adds Anne Plumb of Royal Oak Floors: “Timber is fantastic for anyone suffering from allergies, as it doesn’t trap dust and it’s warm underfoot. It’s also environmentally friendly, as carbon is trapped in the timber.”

OAK OASIS

Oak, spotted gum and blackbutt in smoky greys and light tones remain top floorboard choices, says Brett Talbot of Carpet Court. Royal Oak specialises in its namesake. “It has a beautiful grain,” says Anne, and is famously durable. Oak, limed oak, black Japan stains and grey-wash timbers in matt and satin finishes top the wish lists of interior designer Lauren Mahoney’s clients. “We choose either really light oak or larch or dark-stained oak,” adds interior designer Anna-Carin McNamara. “In-between colours are too strong and dominant, limiting what you can do with the rest of the furnishings. Light timbers create a sense of airiness and freshness, while dark timbers ground rooms with high ceilings.”

TO THE POINT

Baffled by the difference between chevron and herringbone flooring? Chevrons are a series of V-shapes, with the tips of each board meeting the next at a 45-degree angle. Herringbone is staggered (see above), with each plank meeting the next at 90 degrees to create a zigzag.