Gone are the days of matchy-matchy wooden furniture and one-note finishes. The most understated way to decorate in 2024 is with layered timber – the technique of pairing different tones of wood, through surfaces, furniture or accessories, for a look that feels rich, warm and sophisticated.
Before we dive further into this interior design trend, a note on the timbers to use together – and those to avoid. 'Timbers such as pine, oak, cherry and maple work wonderfully together,' say Alexy Kos and Che Huang, founders of London-based design practice Child Studio. 'Look into species indigenous to your area, because it’s sustainable and that’s what local craftspeople are used to working with. Absolutely avoid exotic woods and endangered species.'
