When designing the extension to a gamekeeper's lodge in the woods of Cornwall, Tom and Danielle Raffield chose to stick to their expertise. The duo are professional furniture designers and builders who specialize in steam-bent wood, and so they made the facade of the gamekeeper's lodge extension using the same technique.
Steam-bending is a process of creating curved wooden shapes without having to cut the wood. It involves applying heat and pressure to timber until it's malleable and then bending it and letting it set. The end result is a beautiful piece of solid timber that's bents into impressive curvatures.
The gamekeeper's lodge in the Cornish woodland is an old establishment, with the original buildings being made with traditional stone walls. As such, the extension's more modern feel lends a nice counterpoint to the six-acre property.
Key Themes Behind This Trend
- Steam-bending Wood
- The trend of steam-bending wood allows for the creation of unique and visually appealing curved wooden shapes without the need for cutting.
- Sustainable Building Materials
- The use of steam-bent wood in construction offers a sustainable alternative to traditional building materials, reducing environmental impact.
- Blending Modern and Traditional Architecture
- The combination of steam-bent wood with traditional stone walls creates a visually striking contrast and adds a modern touch to historic buildings.
Where This Applies
- Furniture Design and Construction
- The steam-bending trend presents an opportunity for furniture designers and builders to create innovative and artistic pieces using curved wooden elements.
- Architecture and Construction
- The use of steam-bent wood in building facades and extensions opens up design possibilities for architects and construction companies seeking unique and sustainable solutions.
- Interior Design
- Interior designers can incorporate steam-bent wood elements into their projects to add a touch of elegance and organic aesthetics to spaces.
