The Resurgence of Burl Wood: A Trend in Luxurious Interior Design
Burl wood is experiencing a significant renaissance in high-end interior design, becoming a sought-after accent in luxury homes. Renowned personalities, such as actress Emma Roberts and designer Tan France, are showcasing this unique wood in their stylish abodes. Emma Roberts features an elegant oak burl coffee table in her Los Angeles home, while Tan France has introduced two stunning burl pieces—a two-door dresser and a double-drawer console—reflecting burl wood’s increasing popularity.
Understanding Burl Wood: Nature’s Unique Artistry
Burl wood is characterized by its extraordinary galaxy-like grain patterns, which arise from a fascinating natural process. These unique patterns are often the result of a burl, an abnormal growth on trees due to stress, infection, or injury. Interior designer Tatjana von Stein describes burl as a “conceptual juxtaposition," noting that although it is often regarded as a noble wood, it is derived from a tree’s struggle.
Various tree species can produce burls, including walnut, oak, maple, birch, and cherry. This versatility adds a specific aesthetic appeal to interiors. Notably, the Mise en Scène side table by von Stein, featuring burl wood combined with stainless steel, is available for £7,710 at Tatjana von Stein.
A Growing Demand for Burl Wood Furniture
According to recent data from 1stDibs, searches for burl wood furniture increased by 205% in early 2025 compared to the previous year. Popular items include coffee tables, consoles, and credenzas, with walnut burl being a preferred choice for many buyers. As described by Anthony Barzilay Freund of 1stDibs, collectors tend to gravitate towards modern burl pieces from the 20th and 21st centuries, particularly those linked to 1970s design and the works of acclaimed designer Milo Baughman, who used olive burl extensively.
A-List Affection for Burl Wood
Burl wood has garnered attention among celebrities and high-end designers alike. For instance, designer Athena Calderone featured burl prominently in her recent furniture collection for Crate and Barrel. A luxurious townhouse in Chelsea Barracks sports a custom walnut burl headboard designed by Edo Mapelli Mozzi, the husband of Princess Beatrice.
Despite its historical use in 17th and 18th-century design, where it was typically combined with crafted veneers like crotch walnut and feather banding, today’s collectors favor modern interpretations of burl wood. This shift reflects a broader trend towards individuality in furniture, with every burl piece offering a unique story through its natural design.
The Expanding Market for Burl Wood
Sales of burl wood furniture have surged by 22% compared to last year through platforms like Vinterior. As demand grows, modern design brands are also launching their own burl collections. For example, Soho Home has introduced a new 15-piece collection this spring-summer, featuring standout pieces like the Garbo double vanity unit—complete with fluted dolomite marble sinks atop a light mappa burl veneer cabinet priced at £5,995.
The Versatile Beauty of Burl Wood
Candy Murray, interior design manager at Soho Home, underscores burl’s adaptability. Its diverse textures and colors make it suitable for both classic and contemporary design schemes. Murray emphasizes that burl offers depth in interiors, making it a statement piece when paired with more understated materials.
The creative director of Lemon, Kevin Frankental, conveys the charm of burl through careful craftsmanship. He values the romantic allure of burl wood, which elevates simple forms into sculptural designs.
Anticipating the Future of Burl Wood
As interest continues to rise, various brands are embracing burl wood furniture to meet the growing demand. Noteworthy is the addition of burl pieces from Meola Interiors soon available at Glassette, an online marketplace for curated home goods.
Online sales also reflect enthusiasm for affordable options, such as H&M Home’s poplar burr wood veneer side table at £119 and West Elm’s offerings, including a six-drawer desk priced at £798.95.
George Silcock from the Cambridge auction house Cheffins observes that burl wood is making a notable comeback in the antique market, prompting collectors to seek unique burl pieces across various furniture types, especially walnut and maple.
Conclusion: The Allure of Individuality in Home Design
Burl wood furniture is not just a fleeting trend; it reflects a deep-seated desire for individuality in interior design. Each piece tells its own story, resonating with modern consumers who value uniqueness over mass-produced items. With its captivating patterns and rich history, burl wood is poised to remain a cornerstone of luxurious interior design.
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