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Burl-ing is Back: The Comeback of the Unique and Organic Material in Home Design


The artistic journey is a labyrinthine path of emotions, marked by unexpected twists and turns. However, if forced to identify a consistent thread, it would be the inescapable presence of errors. For me, the allure always lies in the process, and the "happy" mistakes we make along the way. Indeed, they are so commonplace, one learns to embrace them until realizing that failure is the only means of progress.

Such was the epiphany of the individual who first discovered burl wood. In the process of cutting off the gnarled, diseased growth (referred to as the "burl") from the tree, they had intended to discard it, until its inner beauty was revealed. The unique, marbled appearance of burl wood is a result of small knots caused by dormant buds, fungi, viruses, insects, or injuries that put stress on the tree. In a manner akin to the formation of diamonds, nature once again demonstrates that great things can come from applying a little pressure.


Burl wood is making a comeback in the world of interior design and is quickly becoming a must-have for any fashion-forward home. The natural and organic textures, the unique patterns and the rarity of the material are some of the reasons why it's becoming so popular.

Elrod House
Elrod House

Interior designer Arthur Elrod commissioned the architect John Lautner to build this Palm Springs marvel as his home in the late 1960s. It quickly became a bachelor-pad setting for films and photos as well the site of Mr. Elrod's famously lavish parties. The irrepressibly glamorous Los Angeles interior designer Kelly Wearstler deeply admires the work of Arthur Elrod, particularly the use of a stunning antique burl wood coffee table in the large room of the Elrod House.

If you, too, are enamoured with burl wood furniture, read on to shop some of our favourites (such as this vintage square burl wood coffee table) and achieve the look in your own home. Please note, due to the rarity of this precious material, burl wood furniture is a considerable investment, but it is a piece that you will treasure for years to come and even boasts exceptional resale value.



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