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A Surge in Demand for Natural Materials in Home Building Projects

Surge in Natural Materials Demand

In the ever-changing world of home building, one trend is standing out: the resurgence of natural materials and exposed wood. This trend is redefining modern living spaces, creating warm, inviting, and sustainable homes. This trend appeals to us because it creates homes with a greater sense of love.

Imagine this: a family gathered around a wood-burning fireplace, laughing, and telling stories. Or a couple enjoying the beauty of nature together from the comfort of their own home. These are the moments that make life special. At Christensen Lumber, we believe that homes should be more than just places to live. Your home should be a place where you and your loved ones can gather and create memories that will last a lifetime. That's why we're passionate about helping our customers build homes that are cozy, inviting, and made to last.

We expect the natural materials reign is here to stay for the same reasons it is resurfacing: Sustainability, connection with nature, and natural warmth in the home. We’ll dive into the consumers' draw to natural materials in home construction, as well as top trends in architectural landscaping that incorporate these materials.  

The Consumer’s Draw to Natural Materials and Exposed Wood

As the world seeks more sustainable living solutions, the draw of natural materials resonates with homeowners and builders alike:

  1. Sustainability. As the world goes green, home buyers are on the hunt for natural alternatives to synthetic materials. These materials are better for the planet and can often be recycled, which helps to reduce waste.
  2. Connection with nature. Spending time in nature is proven to reduce stress, boost our mood, and even improve our physical health. So, it's no wonder that home buyers are drawn to homes with natural wood accents. Especially now that many of us are working from home and spending more time indoors, having a touch of nature in our living spaces is more important than ever.
  3. Natural warmth. Wood is a natural insulator, which helps to keep your home retain heat in the winter and cool down quickly in the summer. In addition to physical warmth, wood has a unique texture that is both smooth and inviting, which can be a welcome change from the harsh and cold surfaces of other materials, such as tile or concrete.
  4. Financial Benefits. Natural materials are not only good for the environment, but they can also save you money in the long run. Sustainable homes are eligible for LEED certification, which can lead to lower insurance premiums and tax breaks. Additionally, natural materials are versatile and easy to work with, making renovations a breeze. This ensures that your home will stay looking and feeling its best for years to come.

The natural materials trend is taking the world by storm, with projects of all sizes embracing this sustainable and stylish aesthetic. From cozy cabins to grand estates, homeowners are finding new and innovative ways to incorporate natural materials into their homes.

Natural Materials Incorporated in Home Projects

Wooden accents are hotter than a Nebraska summer day, and they're not just for cabins and farmhouse style anymore. Wood is a versatile and timeless material that can brighten up any space, while adding character to the home. Whether you're building from scratch or remodeling, don't be afraid to incorporate some exposed wood into your design.

Natural Materials with a Modern Twist

Even the sleekest, most modern homes are getting on board the natural materials train. An emerging trend is to use pine or cedar siding in patterns to create a visually stunning effect. The contrast between the synthetic materials and the natural wood is both unexpected and inviting, creating a space that feels both edgy and cozy.

Exposed Beaming

Exposed beams are one of the hottest ways to incorporate natural materials into your home, from farmhouse style builds to contemporary designs. They add a touch of rustic elegance and warmth to any space, and they can be used to create a variety of different looks.

Wall Paneling

Accent walls demand attention and are not afraid to make a statement. The most unique, yet classic accent walls are made of natural materials like cedar and Douglas Fir, due to their unique patterns and textures.

Key Steps for Planning a Home Build with Exposed Natural Materials:

Thinking about incorporating natural materials into your next home building project? Here are a few things to keep in mind:

  • Choose the right type of wood. There are many different types of wood that can be used for exposed beams, each with its own unique character. At Christensen, we have a wide variety of lumber products to choose from, including Hem-Fir and Douglas Fir. But if you're looking for something more unique, we can also special-order different Timbers, Cedar, and Redwood for your residential or commercial build.
  • Consider the size and placement of your beams. Exposed beams can be used to create a variety of different looks, so it's important to think carefully about where you want to place them and how big you want them to be. For example, large beams can be used to make a bold statement in a room, while smaller beams can be used to add a touch of rustic elegance.
  • Work with a qualified professional. We're the service and project management experts for lumber and building materials in Nebraska, and we're here to help you every step of the way. We put the customer first and are always looking for ways to streamline and improve the building process for you.

As you start your next home-building project, consider the beauty and benefits of exposed wood. We'll help you choose the perfect wood and design for your project, and we'll make sure the job gets done right.  Visit Christensen Lumber today to explore our wide range of products and make a choice that not only enhances your living spaces but also contributes to a more sustainable future.