Indeed, colors wield a significant influence on our emotions and perceptions, with each color carrying its unique impact, subject to various factors. Red, in particular, is closely linked to powerful emotions like passion, energy, and excitement. Speaking of the color red, it’s a fitting moment to introduce our latest product, the Padouk & Alder set, which elegantly combines the striking reddish-orange of padouk with the pale charm of alder wood, offering a visually captivating addition to your workspace.
In the natural world, we find ourselves entranced by various displays of color, whether it’s the captivating interplay of a vivid sunset against the calm, azure expanse of the twilight sky or our meticulous examination of the intricate patterns on a seashell. Color undeniably plays a significant role in our fascination with nature, influencing our perception and connection to the environment.
The colors we commonly associate with nature are predominantly blues and greens, while red is a relatively rare sight. Researchers at the University of Cambridge have shed light on the reason behind this rarity. Using computational modeling, their team from the Department of Chemistry has uncovered that “matt structural color,” responsible for the most vivid natural hues, is notably absent in reds, oranges, and yellows. This absence stems from structural limitations that affect how surfaces interact with various wavelengths of light, ultimately shaping the colors we perceive.
While matt structural color yields exceptionally saturated and intense shades, it is less effective in producing colors within the red segment of the visible light spectrum. Consequently, this phenomenon elucidates why natural blues and greens often appear more vibrant, whereas bright reds are primarily a result of pigmentation.
Likewise, the colors of wood exhibit a natural diversity, mirroring the variations found in the natural world. This is why when wooden products are left unpainted, they display a range of colors or wood tones. In reality, characterizing the color of wood can be a complex task, particularly due to substantial variations that can occur even among members of the same species. In some cases, a single wood sample may even fit into more than one color category. In formal wood identification and timber descriptions, we often use five categories to describe the color of freshly cut wood.
Most woods come in various shades of brown, ranging from deep reddish-brown like mahogany to lighter browns like those in willows and alders. Some woods, like Andaman padauk and certain African types, have eye-catching red colors. Woods with yellow hues can range from the gentle lemony yellows of boxwoods and haldu to the more orange tones seen in opepe. Notably, only a small number of woods, like hollies, naturally exhibit a white coloration. It’s important to highlight that these less common wood colors are especially valuable for identifying and distinguishing different wood types. Conversely, black is a rare color in woods, primarily occurring in the heartwood of some ebony varieties. Pink is also uncommon but can be found in pink ivory and certain Sickingia species, while the heartwood of the blue mahoe may have a bluish tint. The rich purple color of purpleheart wood is yet another uncommon and distinctive feature in heartwood colors.
One of these colorful trees with a rare and distinctive hue is the padouk tree. Padouk, scientifically known as Pterocarpus, is renowned for its rich and vibrant reddish-orange heartwood, which sets it apart in the world of timber. This unique coloration, often referred to as “Andaman padauk,” makes it a prized choice for fine woodworking and decorative applications. The padouk tree, native to various tropical regions, including Africa and Southeast Asia, has heartwood that darkens and becomes even more vibrant with exposure to light and air. Its exceptional color and durability have earned it a special place among woodworkers and artisans seeking to create stunning and long-lasting pieces.
In the past, its rich reddish-orange heartwood was favored for crafting exquisite furniture, intricately carved sculptures, and musical instruments. Its vibrant color and durability made it a preferred choice for creating intricate architectural details in temples and palaces, particularly in regions like Myanmar and Thailand, where it was used to adorn historic structures. Padouk wood was also employed in crafting traditional boats and revered for its resistance to water damage.
The enduring significance and timeless allure of padouk wood continue to shape its prominent role in contemporary woodworking. At Woodsaka, we harness the beauty of padouk to craft a captivating collection of seven pieces, ideal for both homes and offices, bringing the essence of nature to your workspace. To elevate the set’s visual appeal, we artfully combine padouk with alder wood – its distinct pale color that ranges from creamy white to light brown-, each boasting its own unique charm with their strikingly different colors. This blending creates a remarkable contrast, drawing attention, and imbuing the design with depth, resulting in a product that exudes distinctive beauty and satisfaction.
Woodsaka’s eagerly anticipated Padouk & Alder set is set to hit the market soon, featuring a comprehensive selection of stylish and functional pieces. The ensemble encompasses an A4 Paper Tray & Magazine Holder, a Horizontal Penholder & Storage Box, a Block Note Holder, a Business Card Holder, a Paper-clip Holder, and Pen Holders in two sizes, both large and small. Crafted from exquisite padouk wood, each piece is elegantly complemented by a base of alder wood. Detailed product dimensions will be provided upon the set’s availability. This enduring and visually captivating collection showcases the striking contrast between the reddish-orange tones of padouk and the pale elegance of alder, promising to elevate your workspace and infuse your work hours with vibrant colors.