If in the '70s and '80s was preferred a floor with dark woods, as described in the previous article, the trend today has definitely changed, especially with the success of the Scandinavian style that has also invaded our homes.

And so it is that the use of light-colored woods has taken over and Oak is definitely the undisputed protagonist. Its very light nuance lends itself well both to natural use and to being colored or varnished, especially in shades of gray or taupe.

It is a choice that really suits any environment because it has good hardness, stability and durability, but above all because of its various formats: with wide slats, different lengths and widths or in the very refined "herringbone" version, perfect both in new homes and in renovations. Finally, there is also the possibility of having it with or without knots, more or less brushed or textured, different solutions to satisfy both a cleaner and more essential style and more rustic needs.

Obviously, this modern conception of furnishing with this type of flooring finds the perfect balance with the furniture. Used in various finishes and lacquers, it is the most used wood so far.

Natural oak, beaver oak, honey oak, grey oak and thermo-treated oak are just a few of the endless possible finishes that are easily combined with a wide range of lacquers.

Each possible combination distinguishes a different style:

• NATURAL OAK combined with white makes a clean, essential and minimalist environment.
• GREY OAK combined with sugar paper, dove grey lacquered or brunito, makes the environment highly elegant and with a strong personality.
• THERMOTREATED OAK or THERMOCOTTO OAK combined with warm earthy tones makes the environment refined and internationally inspired.

As well, fabrics can set the right mood by adding some decor with stylish details:

• Prints and geometric decorations suit minimalist interiors
• Cotton and linen fabrics, even with large weaves are perfect for more bourgeois interiors in the shades of grey
• Fabrics with minimal geometric or floral decorations, in warm colours go perfectly with THERMOTREATED OAK with CANALETTO WALNUT and matching lacquers.

The mix of metal in brunito, brass, nickel or varnished titanium finishes are perfectly suited, both as small accessory/detail and as an extra element to the wooden object in the various finishes.

Even if wood changes as type, finish or colour, it has been a fundamental element of the interior design for centuries. Styles and needs may change but this material remains at the heart of designers' or interior architects' ideas. It is also the most "replicated" element, whether it can be porcelain stoneware, perfectly simulates it or synthetic materials such as laminate or melamine.

In conclusion, the use of wood as furniture, whether it is the furniture itself or in refined cabinet making, it is and remains decisive in furnishing any living space in a complete and elegant manner.