Wood Drenching - The New Trend

Ian Tomlinson, Managing Director at Chaunceys Timber Flooring, shares his expert thoughts on the emerging trend

Wood drenching is all about surrounding a space with timber, using the same or similar wood across floors, walls, ceilings, and sometimes furniture, to create a seamless and cocooning atmosphere. It works particularly well with natural finishes that highlight the grain, bringing warmth and texture into a room.

To get it right, it is important to choose timber that is suitable for your space, particularly if you are using it on walls or ceilings. Keeping colour tones and finishes consistent makes the design feel intentional and harmonious rather than mismatched. Key considerations include moisture levels, expansion gaps and lighting. Timber will naturally expand and contract with humidity, so proper installation and acclimatisation are essential.

Wood drenching works beautifully to define different areas in open-plan living spaces or to create a cosy and intimate feel in bedrooms. The right choice of timber can give a space a calming, elegant character while remaining incredibly welcoming. Using reclaimed or sustainably sourced wood is also a wonderful way to add character while supporting environmentally conscious design.