Walnut furniture makes a burly comeback
Here’s the latest example of a trend bounce: Walnut was once the wood of choice for many woodworkers but fell out of favor with designers and decorators for the past 40 years. Now it’s back again, big-time.
The new passion for this fine-grained hardwood is linked to another rebound: the surge of interest in midcentury modern decor and retro interiors.
Historically, furniture- and cabinetmakers have preferred the rich, chocolate brown planks because they are easy to finish and blend well with leather and fabrics.
Today’s shades of walnut have more personality, running from light tans to purplish black. Manufacturers are creating tables, upholstered pieces, lighting, cabinets and accessories from this dense, shock-resistant wood. The look is defiantly retro, but the fresh, clean lines and warm tactical appeal are inviting and easy to live with.
American Leather has introduced a sizable walnut furniture collection and launched a walnut tree-planting initiative to help rebuild diminishing American forests. The Made in America furniture collection includes a selection of pieces upholstered in leather and fabric. It’s classic contemporary with an artsy attitude.
The scale of the new walnut furniture pieces is more in alignment with today’s urban spaces. Large, bulky furniture pieces just don’t have a place in this new design world. In Europe, where living spaces are generally smaller, the look and functionality of this style of walnut furniture has remained in vogue for decades.
Upholstery is key to making this new look fit in with your existing decor. Select a neutral, solid-colored fabric with texture, or pair walnut with a soft, smooth leather. The Greta Sofa from Studio A is an ode to midcentury modern with a classic twist. Steer clear of using retro prints. They are too reminiscent of the ’70s. Let the slender, balanced lines of the walnut frame define the piece.
If you’re not ready to transform your home into a “Mad Men” set, consider incorporating one or two walnut chairs in your family room, or decorate your foyer with an eye-catching walnut bench.
Love the thrill of the hunt? Try to find vintage walnut pieces at resale shops and flea markets, but don’t be surprised to discover that classic walnut furniture has become very pricey.
This story was originally published May 23, 2014 at 7:00 AM with the headline "Walnut furniture makes a burly comeback."