Why Pine Furniture is so Popular

Pine furniture is one of the most sought out types of furniture in the UK. So what’s the secret of the popularity of pine? To find out more visit http://www.pippajamesoninteriors.co.uk/2011/design-post/a-guide-to-shabby-chic-furniture-painting/

Pine furniture exudes warmth and beauty. Not only does it offer the natural elegance of wood, but pine furniture is a sustainable choice. Pine is a soft wood that takes ten years to grow, explaining why pine furniture is usually more affordable than hardwoods that take decades and decades to mature. Pine furniture in the UK more often than not is from sustainable sources and is FSC-certified. The Forest Stewardship Council promotes the responsible management of the world’s forests to help safeguard the planet.

Pine Furniture: Working Class Hero

In fact, the affordability of pine furniture has somewhat shaped its popularity. In the 18^th and 19^th centuries, pine furniture production boomed. The Industrial Revolution resulted in a housing boom and with it an increased demand for furniture. Whereas the upper classes opted for expensive hardwoods such as oak and beech, pine furniture took its proud place in history as the wood of choice for the working classes.

Pine Furniture: A Flexible Choice

The popularity of pine furniture and the fact it has endured today has more to do with its flexibility and contemporary quality. Unlike hard woods, pine furniture captures the warmth of wood without the heaviness and old fashioned quality a hard wood exudes. Pine furniture can sit easily with a range of styles and tastes, creating a light modern feel that still exudes quality and durability. Additionally, pine furniture can be easily stained or treated to resemble other woods or to create a distressed antique look. Pine furniture is the ultimate in flexible furniture, making it a popular choice for homeowners all over the UK.

For Flexible Designs

Pine furniture is also the perfect type of furniture if you want to achieve the shabby chic look that’s currently all the rage. Pine lends itself to flexibility – and the shabby chic appeal is all about transforming furniture to look used aged and slightly battered. Painting pine furniture white and getting to work with a wire brush is a good way to get that shabby chic vibe. Pine furniture has a complex and textured grain that gives instant character if you want to achieve a bohemian shabby chic look.