Down-to-Earth Elements
Ironwood Studio lends advice on how to incorporate natural elements for a rustic vibe in your home . EDITED BY KERRI TALLMAN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL J . LEE
T RENDS MAY COME AND GO , BUT WOOD IS HERE to stay . There ’ s a reason why it ’ s classic : It lasts for decades , can be refinished to look new and is universally flattering for any home decor . The more wellworn the wood , the better .
Ironwood Studio has a passion for repurposing age-old timbers , giving them a second chance at life and a new home . They source , de-nail , kiln dry , mill and install their own wood and focus on incorporating it in as many ways as possible . While we tend to cover up and paint over original wood , Ironwood Studio is here to bring it back out in simple and subtle ways .
KITCHEN : Using wood as an accent wrap around the range hood is an easy statement fix for the most-used room in the house . Even if you prefer streamlined white cabinetry , a good way to draw the eye to the focus point of the kitchen is to have the hood stand out with a textural piece . When it comes to the pantry , don ’ t neglect this small but functional space : Use a mixed species for open wood shelves to show off your organizational skills and display your collectible dishware .
LIVING ROOM : Upon entering a room , the eye naturally goes to the ceiling . The best way to draw attention in a bright , all-neutral color palette is to install reclaimed beams or a tray ceiling with a stunning finish . It adds that warm , earthy atmosphere while giving the illusion of adding height to the space .
To complement the ceiling , add a matching built-in mantel and cabinetry with a thin wooden countertop — a functional and stylish way to add storage . Make it pop against the wall by keeping the natural finish . “ The beams we repurpose are cut down and incorporated into fireplace mantels ,” says Virginia DesRoches , principal designer of Ironwood Studio . “ We like to honor the craftsmen whose art was shaping trees into astoundingly strong structural timbers by using their same methods of installing and utilizing bungs to conceal the screw holes for that authentic look .”
ENTRY : Make guests feel at home as soon as they walk in . Add a built-in bench for guests to remove their shoes or a console table with storage to warm up the space and make it feel as though you ’ re bringing the outdoors in with you . One of Ironwood Studio ’ s favorite ways to incorporate mixed species wood elements is with benchtops .
To go the extra mile , if your banister is outdated , replace it with a cable railing system with wooden beams for a softer , modern look .
For a family-oriented home , consider a built-in locker storage system in the mudroom for each household member , accented with a mixed species benchtop that will hold up over time and use .
BEDROOM : Nothing says a grand entrance like double French doors . Adding a wood trim or molding to the doors will instantly up the ante and elevate your space . For en suite bathrooms , create a divider with a sliding wooden door . Instead of stone countertops , consider wood with a vibrant stain for a vanity that stands out against a stunning porcelain sink . ◆
IRONWOOD STUDIO CO ., 11 Weeden Rd ., Fairhaven , MA , 508-998-6097 , ironwoodstudio . co
12 RHODE ISLAND MONTHLY ’ S NEST | 2023