Oak is a very versatile wood that can be crafted to any style.
The straight lines and smooth finish complement urban modernism, but it can do much more than that.
It is an excellent wood for carving and can be manipulated to suit Mediterranean, Spanish, ornate Italian, Danish Modern, American Colonial or any other style.
There is an abundance of examples of different styles online as well as companies that will make customized designs.
For any furniture need, oak is a good choice.
Oak is also excellent for a rustic look.
Side tables, chests, desks, bookcases, TV tables and coffee tables can be crafted with an ancient or pioneer rustic look that compliments Western style interior decoration, alpine cabins and old family homes.
These pieces look antique even when they are brand new and some even have added distressing which is scratches or cuts to simulate wear and tear.
Whether modern or ancient looking, the one thing they all have in common is the deep, warm glow that only oak can give.
Oak is available from sustainable forests which is an added environmental benefit.
The manufacturer will proudly state the source of his wood.
Reclaimed oak is wood that was cut years ago and has been used for flooring or siding of homes, warehouses and other buildings.
It has been naturally aged over the years and is extremely hard.
It is salvaged and reused today to make furniture and elaborate doors.
This is good practice for the environment and creates extremely durable furniture.
Durability is one of the main attractions of solid oak furniture.
Oak furniture cost more than many other kinds, especially furniture made from cheap, soft woods, but this is actually an advantage.
Because of its incredible durability, each piece will last for generations and not break, crumble, sag or wear out.
It is resistant to stains and is not easy to scratch.
Even after years of use when it is looking a little run down, it can be lightly sanded and polished to bring back the original color and warmth.
Oak veneer is also considered one of the most durable veneers for laminated wood.
If the cost seem a little too much, look online where there are many discounts and lower prices because the intermediary is eliminated.
Before choosing it is always good to visit a department store or furniture store and see the quality and style of solid oak furniture.
Each year a new piece can be purchased until a whole set of oak dining furniture including table, chairs and sideboard is accumulated.
Several end tables, a coffee table and a television cabinet or entertainment center can be gradually purchased to have matching living room furniture.
A whole collection of solid Oak Furniture is ideal, but if just a few pieces are desired, they should be ones that get heavy use.
A TV cabinet or coffee table are good examples of furniture that is constantly being touched, pushed or having things put on top and moved regularly.
If they are sturdy furniture, they will last for years even with heavy use and look good too.