Wood

Where sunlight paints the walls with warmth,

and cool breezes whisper through, wood breathes life
into the spaces we call home. This report delves into
the intricate world of wood as a material in interior
design, exploring its dance with climate, its various
forms, and its applications in crafting beautiful and
functional spaces.

Seasoning of a wood
Seasoning wood is the process of drying it
out to remove excess moisture. Imagine a freshly cut
piece of wood - it's full of water! This water needs to be removed for several reasons:
Warping and Cracking: If wood dries unevenly, it can warp, twist, or crack. Seasoning helps
prevent this by drying the wood slowly and evenly.
Strength and Stability: Seasoned wood is stronger and more stable than unseasoned wood. This is
because the wood fibers are closer together when the moisture is removed.
Durability: Seasoned wood is less susceptible to rot and insect damage. This is because there's less
moisture available for mold and fungi to grow.
There are two main ways to season wood:
Air Drying: This is the traditional method where wood is stacked and exposed to air circulation for
several months or even years.
Kiln Drying: This is a faster method that uses a controlled environment of heat and humidity to
remove moisture from the wood.
Seasoning time depends on the thickness of the wood and the desired moisture content. For most
woodworking projects, wood needs to be seasoned to a moisture content of around 6-8%

Sunny and Dry or Rainy and Steamy? It Matters!

Pakistan's weather is different in different places. In some areas, it's very hot and dry most of
the year. In other areas, it can be rainy and humid. The kind of wood we pick for our homes depends
on the weather:
 Hot and Dry Places: Here, we want wood that won't crack or bend easily. Shisham (a dark brown
wood) and Mango (a golden-colored wood) are good choices because they are strong and can handle
the heat. Teak (a yellow-brown wood) is another great option because it can handle rain too.
 Rainy and Steamy Places: Here, we need wood that can handle some moisture. Neem (a light
brown wood) and Sal (a reddish-brown wood) are good choices because they can handle a little bit of
rain without getting damaged.

The Two Tribes of Timber: Hardwoods and Softwoods

Wood, a material that has shaped human civilization for millennia, comes in a vast array. But
to understand its potential, we can categorize it into two broad families: hardwoods and softwoods.
Let's delve deeper into the unique characteristics of each:

The Hardwoods:
Strength and Durability: Imagine a seasoned warrior, unyielding and enduring. Hardwoods
embody this spirit. Denser than their softwood counterparts, they boast superior resistance to
scratches, dents, and wear. This makes them ideal for high-traffic areas, furniture that needs to
withstand daily use, and heirloom pieces meant to be passed down through generations.
A Slower Pace, a Richer Reward: Hardwoods grow at a slower rate compared to softwoods. This
translates into a tighter grain structure, resulting in a denser and more stable wood. This density also
contributes to the hardwood's ability to take a beautiful polish, showcasing the wood's natural luster
and figuring (unique grain patterns).
A Weighty Investment: The strength and beauty of hardwoods come at a premium. Due to their
slower growth rate and higher demand, hardwoods tend to be more expensive than softwoods.
Examples of Popular Hardwoods:
Mahogany (Swietenia macrophylla): A prized wood known for its rich reddish-brown color and
exceptional durability.
Oak (Quercus spp.): Offering a classic and elegant look, Oak comes in various species, each with its
distinct character.
Teak (Tectona grandis): Renowned for its unparalleled weather resistance, rich golden-brown tones,
and natural oils that repel insects.
Walnut (Juglans nigra): Valued for its deep brown color, fine grain, and rich visual texture.
The Softwoods:
The Woodworker's Friend: Softwoods, with their less dense structure, are generally easier to
work with. They can be shaped, carved, and sanded more readily compared to hardwoods. This
makes them a popular choice for beginners in woodworking or for projects requiring intricate details.
Affordability and Efficiency: Due to their faster growth rate, softwoods are typically more affordable
than hardwoods. This makes them a budget-friendly option for various applications.
Aesthetics and Applications: While not as dent-resistant as hardwoods, softwoods can still offer a
beautiful aesthetic. They come in a variety of colors and textures, making them suitable for a range
of design styles. They are commonly used for framing, furniture construction, and applications where
weight is a concern.
Examples of Popular Softwoods:
Pine (Pinus spp.): A versatile and affordable softwood with a reddish-brown color, commonly used
for furniture construction and framing.
Cedar (Cedrus spp.): Valued for its lightweight nature, natural insect repellency, and distinctive
aroma. Popular for wall paneling, ceilings, and outdoor applications.
Spruce (Picea spp.): A pale-colored wood with good sound insulation properties, often used for
building instruments and interior trim.

Wood can be used in many places:

Floors: Solid wood floors like Shisham or Mango look beautiful and last a long time. Engineered
wood floors are a cheaper option that still looks nice.
Walls: Wood paneling on walls makes a room feel warm and fancy. We can also use wood strips to
decorate walls or create room dividers.
Ceilings: Exposed wooden beams add a rustic touch to a room, especially in traditional houses. We
can also use plywood or MDF with a wood design on the ceiling for a more modern look.
Doors and Windows: Solid wood doors, especially those made from Shisham, are very secure and
keep noise out. For windows, we can use weather-resistant wood like Teak, or a combination of
wood and another material like uPVC.
Outside the House: Wood can also be used outside, but we need to be careful because of the sun
and rain. Teak is a good choice for decks and patios because it can handle the weather well. We can
also use treated wood for things like pergolas or outdoor furniture, but we need to take care of it
properly.
Where Does Our Wood Come From?
Pakistan has many beautiful trees that provide wood for our homes. Shisham, Mango, Deodar Cedar,
and Neem are all grown here. But sometimes, we also need to import wood from other countries.
Here are some popular imported woods:
Mahogany: This dark red wood comes from Southeast Asia and is very strong and beautiful.
Oak: This classic brown wood comes from Europe and North America.

Wood Joinery:
 Glass
Glass, a versatile and timeless material, has transcended its functional purpose to become a
prominent design element in contemporary interiors. This report explores the multifaceted
applications of glass in interior design, considering its impact on space, light, and aesthetics. We'll
delve into the use of glass for various elements like floors, walls, ceilings, doors, and windows,
analyzing its advantages and considerations. Additionally, we'll explore the different types of glass
available and how they influence design choices, along with various sizes and thicknesses.

The Allure of Glass in Interiors

 Transparency and Light: Glass allows natural light to penetrate deeper into a space, creating a
sense of openness and airiness. This is particularly beneficial in smaller areas, making them feel
larger and brighter.
 Modern Aesthetic: Glass embodies a clean and contemporary aesthetic that complements various
design styles, from minimalist to industrial.
 Versatility: Glass can be used in various forms, offering design flexibility. From clear panels to
colored, patterned, or textured options, the possibilities are endless.
 Space Definition: While promoting openness, strategically placed glass elements can subtly define
areas within a room without creating physical barriers.

Embracing Glass throughout the Interior:

Flooring: While less common, glass floors can introduce a dramatic and luxurious element. They are
typically constructed with laminated glass for safety and are best suited for low-traffic areas due to
potential scratch concerns.
Walls: Glass walls, particularly floor-to-ceiling varieties, create a seamless connection between
indoor and outdoor spaces. They can be used to showcase stunning views or visually expand a room.
Textured or patterned glass options offer privacy without compromising light transmission.
Ceilings: Glass ceilings, often skylights, bathe a space in natural light and create a sense of volume.
They are particularly effective in areas with limited access to natural light, like bathrooms or interior
hallways.
Doors: Glass doors allow light to flow between rooms and contribute to a more open floor plan.
They are available in various styles, from sliding doors to French doors, adding a touch of elegance
and visual interest.
Windows: Windows are the most common application of glass in interiors, providing natural light,
ventilation, and connection to the outdoors. Double-paned windows enhance energy efficiency by
insulating the interior space.
Outdoor Applications: Tempered glass is a popular choice for patios, balconies, and pool
enclosures. It offers unobstructed views while providing protection from the elements.

Unveiling the Spectrum of Glass Types:

Beyond the basic clear glass, a world of possibilities exists when it comes to incorporating
glass into your design:

 Annealed Glass: The most common type, offering good clarity and affordability. It's suitable for
non-structural applications like picture frames or cabinet doors.
 Tempered Glass: Also known as safety glass, it undergoes a heat treatment process that increases its
strength and makes it shatter into small, blunt pieces upon breakage. Ideal for shower doors, glass
walls, and applications requiring enhanced safety.
 Laminated Glass: Two or more glass layers are bonded with a clear interlayer, creating a stronger
and more soundproof panel. This type is often used for floors, countertops, or applications requiring
extra security.
 Fritted Glass: Tiny ceramic dots are fused onto the glass surface, creating a decorative effect with
varying degrees of opacity. This offers privacy while allowing some light transmission.
 Textured Glass: Features patterns or textures etched or molded onto the glass surface, providing
privacy and a unique aesthetic element. Popular options include stippled, ribbed, or fluted glass.
 Stained Glass: Colored glass pieces are joined together to create decorative panels or artworks,
often seen in traditional settings. Modern variations offer a contemporary twist on this classic
technique.
 Smart Glass: A technologically advanced type that can change its opacity or other properties
electronically, offering privacy control, heat regulation, or even projection capabilities.

Understanding Glass Sizes and Thicknesses:

Glass comes in a vast array of sizes and thicknesses, impacting its functionality and aesthetic
appeal. Here's a breakdown of key considerations:

 Size: Glass panels are available in standard sizes or can be custom-made to fit specific design
requirements. For large installations, multiple smaller panels might be used for structural support.
 Thickness:

The thickness of glass is measured in millimeters (mm) and determines its strength, weight,
and cost. Thicker glass offers better soundproofing and impact resistance but is also heavier and
more expensive. Here's a general guide:
 3-6 mm: Thin glass, suitable for decorative applications like picture frames or cabinet doors.
 6-10 mm: Standard thickness for most interior applications like shower doors or shelves.
 12 mm and above: Thicker glass used for structural purposes
 Interior Design-01
Assignment Title

Wood
&
Glass

Course Instructor: Ar. Faizan Ali

Submitted By: Muzammil Ali

Punjab University

College of Art & Design

Architecture Department