Aussie Aussie Aussie! Wood Wood Wood!
- Pete Sutherland
- Jul 2
- 3 min read
Updated: Jul 2
Here at Common Wood I made the decision many moons ago to run a sustainable (as possible) solid timber joinery. This meant eliminating the use of any overseas timber and only working with recycled and sustainably sourced Australian hardwoods. This means I can guarantee everything comes with at the FSC/PEFC tick or even better it is reclaimed saving it from landfill.
If you've ever run your hand over a beautifully crafted wooden table or admired the rich grain in a set of grain matched doors on a TV cabinet chances are you’ve already experienced the charm of Australian hardwood, maybe without even realising it.
Australian hardwoods have been quietly making their way into homes, cafes, and design studios, and for good reason. They're tough, beautiful, and full of character. Whether you're into clean modern lines or rustic farmhouse vibes, here’s why Aussie hardwood deserves a spot in your next furniture project.
1. It’s Seriously Tough Stuff
Australia doesn’t mess around when it comes to nature, our climate ranges from blazing hot deserts to humid rainforests, and the trees here have had to toughen up to survive. That toughness carries over to the wood. Hardwoods like Spotted Gum, Blackbutt, Jarrah, and Ironbark are known for their incredible durability.
This makes them ideal for furniture that gets a lot of daily use, think dining tables, bathroom vanities, desks, and even outdoor furniture. They resist dents, scratches, and wear better than many imported timbers.
2. It Looks Absolutely Stunning
Each type of Australian hardwood has its own unique grain and colour tones. Want something light and warm? Go for Blackbutt. Prefer deep, rich chocolate? Tasmanian Blackwood might be your match. Need something that turns heads? Spotted Gum’s swirling grain patterns are show-stoppers.
Because of this variety, Australian hardwood suits all kinds of styles, from minimalist to eclectic to full-blown heritage vibes. Plus, the natural variation in the wood gives every piece its own personality. No two items ever look exactly the same.
3. It Ages Like Fine Wine
One of the coolest things about hardwood furniture is how it ages. Instead of looking old and tired, Aussie hardwood develops a gorgeous patina over time. That’s just a fancy way of saying it gets better with age. A well-made table will outlast you or me in human form, becoming a real heirloom piece in the process.
4. It’s a Sustainable Choice (When Sourced Right)
Australia has strict forestry regulations which means hardwoods are harvested under sustainable forest management practices. If you're buying from a reputable suppliers, as we do, you can feel confident that your wood has been responsibly sourced. You can even look for certification like PEFC or FSC to be extra sure.
BONUS!! Because it’s locally grown, Australian hardwood has a lower carbon footprint than imported timbers. Supporting local industries also means supporting Aussie jobs and communities.
5. It Works Like a Dream (sometimes)
Ok so.. Some hardwoods can be absolute dogs to work with but they produce the best possible result in finishing once you have machined everything correctly. They machine well, hold their shape, and finish beautifully. Whether you’re hand-sanding a surface smooth or applying a natural oil finish, the wood responds beautifully. It’s also strong enough to handle joinery and structural designs without splitting or warping. Be prepared to go through a lot of sanding pads hahaha.
Australian hardwood is more than just a good-looking building material, it’s tough, timeless, and sustainable. Whether you're building a bathroom vanity, a bookshelf, or your dream dining table, it’s a solid investment in quality and style.
So next time you're eyeing up furniture or planning a project, give a nod to the trees that have weathered the Aussie sun, rain, and wind for decades. You’ll be glad you did.
Reach out to us here at Common Wood Co for your next Australian hardwood piece.
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