A Look at Teak Throughout the Years
Throughout the Middle Ages white squalls thundered over the hulls of ships. The soaked decks that weathered the storms were usually built with resilient teak wood. Native to Southeast Asia, teak remained a desired construction material since its initial use in the fifth century. This tropical hardwood was first harvested by innovative shipbuilders. They discovered that teak’s high oil content and tight grain held up to harsh marine elements. Easily enduring long-term submersion in water.
In the 20th century, Britain sought to maintain its maritime power. As a result, they conquered parts of India and Burma in order to claim expansive teak forests for shipbuilding materials. Teak wood began to be recognized for more than its durability and water resistance. Even after being processed, teak maintains its weather-resistant properties of oil and rubber. These properties naturally protect the wood from water, wear, and tear. Therefore, builders and designers began incorporating teak into all aspects of interior and exterior design. Teak had proven its longevity and was in high demand. Uses ranged from floorboards, to indoor and outdoor furniture, intricate carvings, frames, and more.
Similarly, Scandinavian designers, known for their emphasis on minimalism and raw materials, had a unique appreciation for teak’s tight and dense grain. They incorporated this hardwood into all aspects of their handcrafted pieces. Teak was framed into interior walls of homes, built as standalone furniture, even placed as trim on the exterior of structures. However, teak never made it into a wooden patio parasol!
