The choice of a Walnut worktop for a kitchen in the UK is bold and reserved for those who understand the complex beauty in this timber, this dark cool hued wood brings an element of class and sophistication to any room which is why it is often chosen as a premium product for high-end furniture.
Why Walnut?
Blacksea origins
Imported from this area of timeless beauty, Walnut has been used in the home since the renaissance and was the choice timber of many monarchs from Elizabeth the first to George II. The interesting thing about this particular wood for a Walnut work top is that even the root system can be used due to the density of its microstructure which brings a curious element into the surface of the final product. This also means that about 80% of the root system is used so there is little to no waste.
Complex beauty
No two Walnut trees anywhere in Europe are the same, and no piece of wood collected from any such tree is like any other which means that the collected staves of wood that make up walnut worktops produce a surface that is wholly unique in its appearance with the complexity of this timeless timber. Each Walnut tree is affected by the environment around and the unique quality of the curious and twisted wood grain tells the story of each tree’s growth; the twists and knots in the wood make for a particularly interesting centrepiece and talking point in a kitchen.
Matching – the deep dark colour of this wood lends itself to highlight elements of key lighting and contrasting colours in appliances which will stand out in any kitchen and the worktop of Walnut itself steels a story all on its own making it able to stand alone without other design or decor elements needed to bring attention to it.
Timeless nobility – having been used in the homes of royalty and nobility for centuries, Walnut worktops are the best choice for those wanting to bring a regal element into their kitchen, complimenting that early morning rich coffee roast with an equally rich and energetic timber.
Functionality
Putting that potential for noble design aside, there has to be a strong element of functionality that comes into play. The strength and wearability of Walnut does not pale next to its beauty, in fact, the longevity of this wood as seen in centuries-old pieces of furniture is a testament to the wearability clients can depend on in their kitchens.
Durable – timber has been tested over centuries as one of the most durable surfaces for any home and even butchers blocks are made from wood, Walnut is known to be as durable as oak and some argue, far more beautiful.
Hygienic – wood in general including Walnut is naturally antimicrobial and hygienic which is another reason that is is the prime choice of cooks all over Europe, it is easy to clean and all the maintenance needed is an oiling every 6 months to stop cracks that could cause food to collect and rot.
