With their wide-open interiors, high ceilings, and natural warmth, heavy timber structures make some of the most beautiful and visually intriguing homes on the market. Characterized by their intricate joinery and exposed wood members, these home designs offer a unique canvas that boasts endless customization options for your space.
Whether you’re a seasoned decorator or just starting to gather ideas for your design, there are plenty of ways to enhance the natural beauty of your home while keeping things stylish and homey. If you’re planning to build a post and beam or timber frame residence, here are five tips for creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere that brings out the best features of your investment.
1. Embrace Natural Color Schemes
When designing your heavy timber home, a primary consideration should be complementing the natural hues of your wood components. Earth tones like greens, browns, and beiges work wonderfully, as these colors help highlight the warmth of your timbers without overpowering them. However, if you’re feeling adventurous or desiring something different, muted blues and soft grays provide a subtle contrast that adds depth and sophistication.
Remember, the goal with heavy timber homes is to create a harmonious space that feels connected to nature and draws attention to the stunning details of your interior. By incorporating more subdued colors in your home, you can create a well-balanced design that feels unique to your style without drawing attention away from your timber accents.
2. Choose Furniture That Complements Wood
Furniture can make or break the aesthetic of a heavy timber home. For optimal results, we suggest including pieces that feature a healthy blend of rustic and modern touches. Think sturdy wooden tables, comfortable leather or fabric sofas, and classic metal accents. The trick is to fuse the striking look of timber with something more substantial and inviting. Mixing different textures, like a plush rug on a wooden floor or soft throw pillows on a leather couch, can add comfort and sophistication to your living space.
3. Get Creative with Lighting
Lighting plays a crucial role in setting the mood. In heavy timber homes, where wood can absorb light, having a mix of lighting sources can dramatically enhance the natural characteristics of your space. Large windows are a must for natural light, as are floor lamps, table lamps, and ceiling fixtures for the evening. Warm, soft lighting best complements the warmth of your timbers, with pendant lights or chandeliers making a bold statement in expansive areas with vaulted ceilings.
4. Incorporate Textiles for Warmth and Texture
Heavy timber can sometimes feel a bit overpowering, even as the main attraction of a space. However, homeowners can always help soften the look with plenty of textiles. Thick curtains, plush cushions, cozy throws, and area rugs help break up the dominant wood features of your space. They also provide an easy way to introduce colors and patterns that accentuate your personal style.
5. Don’t Forget the Art and Decor
Finally, personalize your timber home with art and decor that reflects your taste! Wall art can bring color and interest to large expanses of wood, with more substantial pieces of art standing up to the boldness of timber walls. Also, incorporating different decor elements like pottery, glass, or metal can add visual interest and personality.
Decorating a heavy timber home can be a delightful journey that allows you the freedom to infuse your style into your space while respecting the natural beauty of your wood elements. By keeping things balanced, cozy, and authentic to your tastes, you can create a one-of-a-kind home that feels distinct to you and your goals.
Ready to get started on your post and beam or timber frame home design? Call us today at (888) 975-2057 or request a catalog here to start gleaning ideas for your project!
