our timbers

padauk/coral wood (pterocarpus soyauxii)

padauk is a sensational crimson coral timber. heavy, hard and strong. freshly milled it is a deep tomato red, and over time it changes with oxidisation to a rich, deep vermillion brown hue.

traditionally used for fine furniture in asian countries especially china because of the deep coral red colour which is considered a colour of good fortune and luck. also favoured by furniture makers in the british colonies in the 18th & 19th centuries and often called east indian mahogany. also used for fine marquetry inlays, musical instruments like guitars.

freshly milled padauk exudes a sweet and spicy odour. and the bark yields herbal medicines.

a wonderful warm and unusual wood for fine flooring. for those who love deep red/brown tones and fine figure. a very elegant wood probably best in traditional or classic interiors, with rich fabrics, antiques and tapestries. but the vibrant colour would work well in contemporary interiors also, esp. where an eclectic mix of modern and antique furniture is used. also a wonderful wood to act as a background canvas for rich persian rugs.


exotic collection