The 1990s Called—It Wants You to Know This “Cheap” Wood Is Back

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Historically, pine wood has conjured one of two thoughts: way-too-orange kitchen cabinets from the ’90s, or Christmas garland. Because it’s so inexpensive—typically starting at $5 per square foot compared to $8 for popular oak—people equate the material with low quality. But honestly, the wood type, known for its knotty grain and widespread availability, doesn’t deserve the bad rep it’s been given. And a recent visit to Finland for the Habitare trade show and Helsinki Design Week shows designers are starting to use the material in fresh new ways. Even Leanne Ford crafted her first-ever office furniture out of pine for Crate & Barrel earlier this year.

In Finland, the overlooked wood has long been beloved for its sustainable nature. “Pine trees are notoriously fast growing, so it’s a better option than slower (aka less renewable) trees like cedar or maple,” says Miklu Silvanto, creative director of furniture brand Vaarnii. And when sanded down and left in its natural state (no orange tint here!), the wood boasts a cool, earthy tone that’s honestly gorgeous. Still have doubts? We’ve rounded up our favorite new pine pieces, plus some interior inspo, that might just sway you.

To carve out designated zones in her sprawling Los Angeles loft, stylist Bronte Athearn constructed a 12-by-8-foot pine bookshelf that runs the length of the space. Now for just $500, everything from fireplace logs to her trailing fish-hook plants is off the floor—chef’s kiss.

Named after the Finnish word for “valley,“ fledgling furniture designer Atso Kurri’s Kuru nightstand is simple in construction (every detail is made of pine) yet striking in its silhouette—honestly great for minimalists and maximalists alike.

Vaarnii’s 1003 Hans pendant light looks light as air, but it’s actually solid wood—thin strips of pine covered in pine veneer make up the tiered shape. Micro-slits between each piece ensure an ambient amber glow that’s never too harsh. It’s giving cozy Scandinavian dream.

With 12 drawers (!) of storage space for your office supplies, a growing tableware collection, or even clothing, Leanne Ford’s Haldeman sideboard is a total workhorse. And adorned only with a lacquer top coat and cutout finger pulls, it’s proudly all about the pine—obsessed.

There’s no need to relegate pine just to accents. If you’re feeling bold, take a note from Malia Mau’s Topanga, California, home and go all out in one space. The wall-to-wall paneling in the jewelry designer’s studio instantly adds warmth to the concrete floors—it’s giving main character energy.

Kate McGregor covers everything related to the home, from design inspiration to IKEA hacks. She has been the market assistant at ELLE Decor where she focused on curating product for the print magazine’s market pages.

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