Fine home furnishings are almost always constructed of wood, but unfortunately these rare and hard woods also come with a price many on a budget can’t afford. However pine furniture is extremely affordable and all too often overlooked as only belonging in a rustic setting. It is true that this light wood does look amazing finished with it’s amazing grain showing but it can also be painted or stained and provide a beautiful wood surface for a very low price.

While considered a light wood or common wood Pine became popular because of its beautiful grain that could look beautiful with a minimum of sanding and polishing. People came to believe the only finish and style for this light colored wood was knotted rustic furniture. Nothing could be further from the truth and this wonderfully versatile wood can be found in as wide a variety of styles as any exotic wood and is much more affordable.

While cherry, mahogany, oak and teak have their place in decorating and in furnishings; they are also more expensive than common wood furnishings. The practical decorator these days also takes a look at the common often forgotten grained wood and its brand new range of finishes and styles. The knotting and grain in this material give it a distinctive beauty many artisans are also producing smooth surfaces that emulate the expensive hardwoods and that can grace almost any room.

Pine can be stained or painted either light or dark depending upon the needs of the decorator or the whims of the craftsman. Often it is painted a tan or cream color to lighten up a nursery or provide a durable finish for kitchen storage. This light wood is even being reclaimed and beginning life anew as the bottom of a cupboard or the supports of a sofa.

Synthetic materials come and go out of style but none have the durability and timelessness of wood furnishings. Although pressed fiberboard or synthetic furniture may be easier on the budget than exotic woods they lack durability and soon become dated and must be replaced. Sometimes wood furnishings are sold that are made from pressed fiber board with a wood veneer but generally doesn’t hold up to long term use.

Wood furnishing fits into almost any home decor scheme whether it is minimalistic or rustic. Natural wood grains or light colored furnishings are beautiful accent pieces to accent any room they grace. Pine furnishings can be found in the baby’s nursery, the formal dining room, the kitchen and of course the back garden.

Pine furniture can surprise even the traditionalist with its versatility in styling and finishes. Before choosing veneer furnishings, the smart decorator takes a second look at this common wood. While budgets are important these days, so is durability and style which makes this light wood an excellent choice.