The Finish Makes All the Difference
You have chosen a beautiful piece of solid wood furniture — now comes a decision that will define how it looks, feels, and lasts for years to come: the finish. A wood finish is not just about aesthetics. It protects the wood from moisture, stains, and daily wear while enhancing its natural character. With so many options available, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming. This guide breaks it all down for you.
1. Natural Oil Finish — For a Raw, Organic Feel
Oil finishes (such as linseed oil, tung oil, or Danish oil) penetrate deep into the wood grain, nourishing the fibres from within. The result is a matte, natural look that feels warm and organic to the touch. Oil finishes are ideal for dining tables, benches, and bedroom furniture where you want to preserve the raw beauty of the grain. They require periodic re-oiling (typically once or twice a year) to maintain their protection.
Best for: Rustic, Scandinavian, and organic interiors. Pairs beautifully with pieces like our Welcome Planter Shelf — handcrafted pine with a warm, natural finish.
2. Hard Wax Oil — Durability Meets Natural Beauty
Hard wax oil combines the penetrating properties of oil with the surface protection of wax, creating a finish that is more durable than pure oil while still showcasing the wood's natural grain. It is water-resistant, easy to maintain, and ideal for high-use surfaces like dining tables and desks.
Best for: High-traffic furniture. Our Foldable Wall Mounted Workstation uses a similar approach — a protective finish that keeps the natural wood grain visible while standing up to daily use.
3. Lacquer Finish — A Sleek, Modern Look
Lacquer creates a hard, glossy surface coating that gives furniture a clean, polished look with strong protection against scratches and moisture. It is available in matte, satin, and high-gloss sheens — making it versatile for modern interiors.
Best for: Modern, minimalist interiors. Our Classic Reclining Wooden Chair features a sleek lacquered finish that maintains its polish even with regular use.
4. Varnish — Maximum Protection
Varnish is one of the toughest and most durable finishes available. It forms a thick, hard layer that is highly resistant to heat, water, and chemicals — ideal for pieces that face heavy use. Our Regal Game Table benefits from a durable varnish-style finish to protect the inlaid chessboard surface from daily handling.
Best for: High-wear pieces and statement furniture.
5. Whitewash or Limewash — Light and Airy
If you want to brighten a space and give wood a lighter, more relaxed look, a whitewash or limewash finish is a beautiful option. It allows the grain to show through while muting the natural colour for a coastal or Nordic-inspired aesthetic. It works particularly well on pine, oak, and ash.
Best for: Coastal, Nordic, and light-filled interiors. A perfect complement to our Corner Wooden Plant Stand for an airy, nature-inspired corner.
How to Choose the Right Finish for Your Space
Ask yourself three questions: How much daily wear will this piece take? What aesthetic do I want — natural and raw, or sleek and polished? How much maintenance am I willing to do? Once you know the answers, the right finish becomes clear. Our team at Bruinhout is always available to guide you through the options.
Crafted to Last, Finished to Impress
At Bruinhout, every piece of furniture we craft is finished with care and intention. We use only high-quality, environmentally responsible finishes that protect the wood while letting its natural beauty shine. Explore our collection and find your perfect piece — already finished to perfection, or customised to your preference.
