May 13, 2009
WOODWALKS® have arrived –
a versatile solution for outdoor surfaces
Duluth Timber welcomes the arrival of a sister company: I'm In the Garden. This bright start-up company uses our reclaimed redwood tank stock for its handsome, modular garden products.
Their 2009 product line features WoodWalks Path and Patio Tiles (pictured above), plus gorgeous Threshold Mats. All of 100% reclaimed old growth redwood, salvaged from pickle tanks.
I'm In the Garden is co-owned by Max Taubert and Lisa McKhann. WoodWalks are available in select Twin Cities stores this season. Samples are available from info@iminthegarden.com
Learn and see more at their website:
www.iminthegarden.com
Designer Showcase
David Salmela, midwest master architect, flaunts old wood in contemporary homes
Salmela's Emerson Residence reveals big timber forms. © Peter Bastianelli-Kerze
An interview with David Salmela, FAIA, of Salmela Architect
What drew you to reclaimed wood as a material for your work?
Salmela: I think the whole key to using reclaimed wood is that the beauty of the wood is greater. Wood [in general] is beautiful. The reclaimed wood has a quality about it that is even more favorable. Its coloration, the age of it. The wood is an older wood, and grew slower; it certainly wasn’t a plantation wood. That is the biggest factor that we like to use. Also, it has stability; new wood hasn’t matured itself. There’s twisting in new wood.
How do you sell your clients on the value of reclaimed wood?
Salmela: We have used new wood - basswood, cypress. But, the quality of the product when it’s reclaimed, especially when from your shop there, is always impeccably done. That has a big impact on people and on the ability to build something true.
Albrecht Residence features our oiled redwood millwork. © Peter Bastianelli-Kerze
Is there a story that stands out in your mind of a client’s delight at the old wood in their project?
Salmela: I would say just about all them. I don’t think there’s any exception to that. They’re very proud. They’re very proud of just the notion of reusing something. It’s like consulting wise, old people. It’s a source of pride.
Read the full Salmela interview with more photos (pdf)
See more of Salmela's work at his website Salmela Architect
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