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A floor-to-ceiling wrapping of wood creates a fresh natural retreat.

An expansive, double-volume inner courtyard that is airy, contemporary…and enclosed entirely by wood. A juxtaposition that shouldn’t work, but stepping into the terrace house renovated by architect Brendon Ong of Studio Ish reveals that, incredibly, it is possible.

An array of inviting and hardy Perswood timbers span the towering inner space. Across the deck of Ipe Walnut, to the walls and ceiling composed of the thermally strengthened Zirconwood, the seamless panels create what Brendon calls a “cocooning effect” – being surrounded by natural materials brings you back to the heart of nature.

Having a green space of their own was certainly what his clients desired, when contemplating what to do with the house. The inter-terrace, unlike their previous property, was unable to afford them a garden. The challenge then, was to bring the outdoors indoors to carve out a personal sanctuary within the home.

After removing two columns to open up a sweeping covered space, Brendon envisioned how it could be completely clad in wood. He wanted to draw in elements of the garden, greenery and nature, and felt that the extensive use of wood would allow the inside and outside to merge.

Another advantage of a timber-based design is that the “calming linearity” of the grain enhances the space, making it appear even more expansive than it already is.

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Photo credit: Brendon Ng

Zirconwood was selected for its beautiful light tone; while similar to the creaminess of white oak, its weather-resistant properties meant that the walls and ceiling of the inner courtyard would robustly endure exposure to the elements. It was also preferred for how the Zirconwood process mindfully makes use of timber, innovatively enhancing lesser-used wood types to become an optimum choice for the outdoors. Heated at high temperatures while steamed, the wood is permanently reinforced at the molecular level. The absence of harmful chemicals or resins during the process further guarantees its sustainability.

Meanwhile the warm Ipe Walnut, as one of the hardiest woods available, was excellent for the inner courtyard’s deck and daybed, as well as the front terrace’s deck.

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Photos credit: Brendon Ng

Solid American White Oak rift and quarter sawn cut was incorporated for the house’s inner floors and staircase. Its unique grain paints the floor with a gradient that’s mostly linear yet curiously punctuated by curls akin to orange peels.  Brendon chose American White Oak for the inner floors because they would be the surfaces trod on by bare feet – which would instinctively distinguish the warm solidity of wood from that of non-natural materials. The oak’s pleasingly neutral palette also materialised the open modern home that the owners had always wanted.

Despite the initial quandary of securing an outdoor space for an enclosed terrace house, its skilful remaking opened a lush retreat for the owners without the need to demolish and rebuild. The strategic application of Perswood timbers to cocoon the environment means that at all times, Brendon’s clients are surrounded by the soothing effects of nature within their own home.

Premium oak is a perfect match with plush fittings of luxury condominium in KL.

Centrally located at Damansara Heights in KL, AIRA Residence blends design elements from the East and West to present luxurious yet functional high-rise living. Among the many elements that contribute to AIRA’s opulent yet practical lifestyle, is the beautiful and hardy wood flooring. A testament to elegance and craftsmanship, here is why it is a perfect match for the classy development.

Unveiling the jewel: engineered premium oak with customised stain and UV finish

At the heart of AIRA Residence lies a wood flooring selection that exudes sophistication and grandeur. Our expert craftsmen have meticulously laid in place an Engineered Premium Oak floor, adorned with a custom stain tailored to the project’s refined colour scheme. Applying an UV finish ensures longevity and durability and accentuates the beauty of the wood.

Flooring of unmatched elegance

Why was this specific wood flooring chosen for AIRA Residence? It captures the essence of AIRA’s luxurious interiors and elevates the overall aesthetic of the development. The carefully curated stain perfectly harmonises with the design intent, adding depth and richness to every living space.

Crafted to perfection: exquisite details and precision

The installation of the wood flooring at AIRA Residence demanded unparalleled attention to detail and meticulous execution. This was because the wood had to be placed precisely in a herringbone pattern. Already finished in the factory, the engineered wood could also not be modified onsite to suit the conditions.  On top of this, before installation, we had to stringently check for an absolutely flat sub-floor, to provide a suitable canvas for this stunning masterpiece.

Seamless integration: where wood meets marble and beyond

Extensive preparatory work was done to ensure the wood flooring’s flawless integration with other luxurious materials, such as marble. The wood was cut with precision to terminate exactly where it met other materials; besides marble and other flooring, this also included exposed beams, sliding doors and junction box covers, showcasing the team’s practised craftsmanship. The result is a seamless, uninterrupted flow that pairs with the overall allure of AIRA Residence.

Wood planks were meticulously cut to produce seamless junction box covers in the herringbone pattern

AIRA Residence’s wood flooring is a captivating symphony of beauty and craftsmanship. With its tailored stain, UV finish, and thoughtful integration, the oak flooring elevates the luxury living experience to new heights. Choose from our range of classic, premium and royale floorings to likewise wonderfully enhance the living experience of your home.

All images credited to AIRA Residence.

Why you might be missing out if you don’t opt for thermo-treated wood for your outdoor features.

If you’d like to use wood for your outdoor builds, but are holding back because of uncertainty over its durability, thermo-treated wood may be what you’re after. While wood, when installed and maintained appropriately, already makes for an attractive and hardy material, panels that undergo thermal enhancement endure all weather conditions even better. We lay out what sets thermo-treated wood apart and the advantages it can hold for you.

What makes thermo-treated wood more durable for outdoor use?

Thermo-treated wood undergoes a treatment process that crystallises its fibers, including starch and resin. This process enhances the wood’s stability, reducing its tendency to contract or expand when exposed to moisture. As a result, thermo-treated wood exhibits improved durability and can withstand various weather conditions, such as rain, humidity and temperature fluctuations.

Can I use softwood for outdoor projects if it’s thermo-treated?

Absolutely. One of the advantages of thermo-treated wood is that it enables the use of softwood, including popular varieties like pine. Traditionally, softwood was considered less suitable for outdoor applications, but with thermo-treatment, it becomes a viable option. This expands the range of available materials and provides more design flexibility.

How does thermo-treated wood enhance the appearance of outdoor features?

Thermo-treated wood offers improved appearance and uniformity. The treatment process reduces colour variations within the wood, resulting in a more uniform and natural look. Additionally, the smooth surface of thermo-treated wood makes it easier to oil or coat, eliminating the need for extensive sanding. This applies not just for outdoor features; this characteristic is ideal indoors too — think timber screens, doors, cladding and ceilings. Moreover, thermo-treated wood accepts paint well, allowing for a wider range of customisation options.

Is the process of thermo-treating wood eco-friendly?

Yes! Thermo-treatment is an environmentally friendly process. Unlike many other wood treatment methods, it does not involve the use of chemicals. Instead, the wood undergoes a process of intense heat and steam. This approach ensures the longevity and stability of the wood without the need for potentially harmful substances, making thermo-treated wood a sustainable choice.

How does thermo-treated wood compare to natural wood for outdoor projects?

Thermo-treated wood outshines natural wood in several ways. Unlike natural wood, which is prone to bleeding, sapping and colour run when exposed to moisture, thermo-treated wood undergoes a transformation that prevents these issues. It has enhanced stability, similar to charcoal, with crystallised fibers that prevent contraction and expansion. As a result, thermo-treated wood can be the superior choice for outdoor projects, with better durability, reduced warping, and fewer limitations for larger builds. It is also more affordable than hardwood.

Where can I get thermo-treated wood in Singapore?

Perswood is one of the earliest innovators in thermally treating wood for Singapore’ climate. We introduced the ZIRCON process around 2010, which ensures that the treated wood can withstand the full range of Singapore’s weather conditions. All ZIRCON wood is heated from 190ºC to 250ºC, with the addition of steam, to permanently enhance the wood at a molecular level.

In conclusion, thermo-treated wood revolutionises outdoor construction and design by providing enhanced durability, expanded material options, improved appearance, and an eco-friendly manufacturing process. Its numerous benefits over natural wood make it a superior choice for long-lasting and visually stunning outdoor features. Embrace this innovation and unlock the full potential of thermo-treated wood for your next outdoor project.

Photo credit: Observancy & Architecture

Where the timber’s colour and texture complement a soothing work space.

Tasked to design the offices of premium watch retailer The Hour Glass in Singapore and Malaysia, design firm Observancy & Architecture envisioned a warm domestic feel that blurred the lines of home, hospitality and the workplace.

Meant to be places where employees could feel equally comfortable at work as in their own abodes, the colour palette for the offices was crucial. The designers opted for neutral colours that they typically used for their residential projects to soften the corporate environment. As part of this, they selected pale, cream-coloured oak to complement textured rugs and cosy lounging areas.

A brushed finish for the timber further emphasises its character, adding to the polished yet laidback feel of The Hour Glass offices.

As wide floorboards better suited the design, engineered wood was used; it allows for broader widths without any risk of instability or warping.

The engineered wood could also be installed expediently without a need for acclimatisation or prep works onsite, since it had been treated in the factory beforehand. Perswood installed its Royale timber flooring system, which ensured that premium quality products were used and a moisture barrier incorporated to prevent dampness.

Photo credit: Observancy & Architecture

The result is an office environment that The Hour Glass employees can look forward to returning to each day. The soothing floors set the tone, along with the rest of the neutral furnishings, for a conducive workplace for productivity and collaboration.

As a bonus, the clients have also found the engineered oak floor to be durable and easy to maintain, reducing the fuss of upkeep.

Renovating your office or home? Find out more about our timber flooring systems and which would be the most suitable for your use.

What needs to be done before the wood planks get laid down.

Building or renovating a home or development is an exciting project, especially once you’ve selected all your fittings and are seeing your vision come to life. However, works not being executed in the right order can ruin the process, possibly leading to damage and defects.

This is especially the case when it comes to installing a timber floor. Natural wood, if not cared for appropriately including during the construction period, can come away with dents, scratches or stains.

But not to worry, we have compiled a straightforward guide to the perfect conditions for getting your floor installed.

Complete these essential works first

Our checklist, as followed by our experienced project coordinators, takes the guesswork out of knowing what should take place before bringing in a timber floor.

• Cement screeding should be dried and level: as this will form the base of your floor

• Other types of flooring should be laid beforehand, at the desired height: Because wood as a flooring can accommodate slight adjustments in height, for example through sanding down, it should be the last type of flooring installed.

• Any sliding tracks for doors should already be installed: as doing so after the timber floor is in can cause damage to the wood

• All waterproofing works and wet works should be completed: For example, for the kitchen and toilet. Windows and doors should also be in. This is because water seepage can damage the wood and even cause it to change colour.

• Ceiling and wall plastering and painting should be done: otherwise, fragments of plaster and drops of paint are liable to fall on the floor and stain it

Pre-installation: cement screed sub-floor clean, dry and ready for timber installation (left); a measuring tool to ensure that the cement floor underneath has a low enough moisture level for timber installation (right)

Post-installation of timber floor (left); temporary protection post-installation in the event that other works are not completed yet (right)

Another reason to get these works out of the way first is that they tend to involve tools and machinery that may cause scratches to the wood.

However, if it’s unavoidable for other works to take place after the floor is in, contractors should make sure to provide protection for the floor to avoid any dents or damage.

Make sure the floor is dry enough

If it wasn’t already obvious, water and wood do not get along. So much so that there are specific measurements of moisture that our coordinators look out for before they okay a floor installation. Using a specialised meter, they ensure that the moisture level in the cement sub-floor is not more than 6%.

Should the moisture exceed this level, it can cause the wood to be “wavy” or buckle when installed.

Ensure that site is clear and clean

You’ll want to minimise the risks of any debris or construction materials falling onto and ruining your floor. So before the installation begins, make sure that as far as possible, the site is clean and clear of any tools or materials.

Conclusion

Installing a timber floor is not a walk in the park, requiring knowledge and expertise. Arming yourself with this guide will help you know the major considerations to look out for before your floor goes in – after all, you’ll want it to last and look its best for years to come.

Have a question about timber floor installation or need help to remedy your floor situation? Have a look at the services that we offer or chat with us on our website.

Find out which wood types superbly endure all weather conditions.  

When it comes to designing an outdoor deck, you’d want something that can last through the years, no matter how well-trod or battered by the elements. Planks popping upwards are unsightly; the last thing you’d want to see when sunbathing by the pool, tending to your garden or strolling along the promenade of your development.

Fortunately choosing the appropriate wood type for your flooring can help you ensure that it stays in good condition rain or shine.

Such wood is usually more dense and less porous, and hence will not absorb water as easily as those with lower densities. Such properties also allow them to be more durable overall. They would typically qualify for a rating of 3 and above based on the European standards for durability (indicating they are moderately to very durable).

Examples of wood that have these characteristics include ipe, yellow balau, chengal and teak.

Another thing to look out for to help wood flooring outdoors last, would be the installation method. Installing the planks through nailing them down punctures the wood. This can result in their surfaces collecting more water, drying slower and eventually rotting.

In contrast, we usually secure wood planks used outdoors along their sides through a side clip fastening system. This allows the planks to be installed without puncturing the surface of the wood.

The dimensions of the wood planks can also affect their susceptibility to expansion and contraction when exposed to the elements. Every wood has varying degrees of “stability” in terms of how much it expands and contracts; generally, more dimensionally stable woods, such as chengal or teak, can afford to have a wider range of widths without affecting the thickness of the planks. Less stable types of wood will need to be thicker, have wider widths and shorter lengths.

Zircon for assorted outdoor elements

An exceptionally suitable wood for the outdoors is Zircon wood, which is wood that has been subjected to thermal treatment of around 190 to 250 degrees Celsius. This fundamentally transforms the properties of the wood, upping its stability and durability, and provides a much wider range of wood choices for the outdoors.

It also unlocks more variety in dimensions for the wood; you’d be able to opt for thinner and longer planks than usual. As such, this flexibility usually makes the wood suitable for other outdoor elements as well, such as ceilings, claddings and screens.

Having an outdoor deck that weathers well through the years is within reach, as long as you select wood that is suitably durable and keep it maintained.

Find out more about our Zircon wood offerings and how they can be incorporated for your outdoor plans.

Photo Source: People’s Association

Flooring designed to support dancers’ movements takes centre stage.

The pointed double-pitched rooftops and striking elevated profile of Wisma Geylang Serai stand out yet harmoniously meld with its buzzy surrounding neighbourhood. This should be no surprise considering that its design draws inspiration from traditional Malay kampong houses that used to characterise the locale, and which still see their heritage etched into the area today.

Adjoining the historical Geylang Serai Market, Wisma Geylang Serai may have its design steeped in heritage, but is itself a recent addition to the area. Opened in 2018, the community and cultural centre holds services, modern amenities and top-of-the-line facilities that are available for the public’s use.

One such example is the dance studios located at the second storey of Wisma Geylang Serai.

When the dance studios were being planned for, the objective was for them to be able to support numerous styles of dance, ranging from cultural and classical dances, such as ballet, to more contemporary forms like K-Pop.

They were also to be suitable for all kinds of users, from beginners to experienced dancers, as the studios would be used for classes of varying levels.

In order to meet these requirements, we installed a pneumatic airoflor flooring system. Such systems include everything needed for the floor to be installed and function to its intended effect. In this case, the flooring system comprises multiple layers, which include rubber padding, thick foam, and several layers of plywood. Oak planks make up the topmost layer.

This is the most sophisticated version of this type of flooring system, which is usually recommended for sports and dance venues. The floor is designed to provide cushioning for movement – reducing impact and minimising injuries – allowing dancers to spin, leap and land safely. The thick flooring also keeps sound transmission to a minimum.

The American White Oak that tops off the flooring layers has a beautiful pale natural colour, which lends itself to marking and blocking during dance routines. The wood’s hardiness and anti-slip finishing further bolsters it as a dream to dance on. The high quality oak was prepared in the USA; not only was it selected for its fine grain, it was also processed to be long-lasting and to fit together seamlessly for the dance studio floor.

Find out more about Perswood’s flooring systems, each designed with a particular need in mind, to see which is most suited for your project.

Oak flooring in neutral yet varied shades provides the perfect base for a property inspired by the south of California and France.

When seeking a space to call home, our client – a family which enjoys travelling – desired a place they could enjoy together and entertain guests in. They also wanted to showcase their art collection.

Their home blends design sensibilities from Southern California and Southern France, making for a relaxed and intimate, yet elegant and spacious two-storey dwelling. The living area extends out to a garden and swimming pool surrounded by trees. Their architects specially designed the home to look out to the lush views through French windows, which also bring natural light into the interior living space.

To complement the light and graceful décor, oak was selected as the flooring throughout the house, and for the spiral staircase connecting the first and second floors. As a porous wood, oak easily takes on other colours. This allowed for it to be stained in varying tan hues that introduce a rustic yet refined quality, and highlight the wood’s natural grain. Its neutral palette also underscores the beauty and uniqueness of the family’s collection.

Engineered wood was used for the flooring as it could be prepared in broader panels than solid wood, matching the expansive feel of the interconnected living spaces.

Meanwhile, the spiral staircase curves organically between the home’s two floors, with the oak steps smoothly continuing the aesthetic from one to the other.

Another factor behind why the homeowners opted for wood flooring throughout the house, was its feel underfoot. They liked its pleasant warmth, especially after waking up.

Find out more about the differences between engineered wood, wood and vinyl and which is the most suitable for you in this article, or explore our range of engineered wood and wood products.

We break down the pros and cons of the three.

If you’re currently shopping around for flooring material, you might be mystified by the wood or wood-like products on the market. In particular, it can be tricky to distinguish between wood, engineered wood and vinyl. What are the differences between these, and which should you pick for your home or development? We’ll highlight what each product is known for, and when you might want to use each one.

Composition

One big difference among the three products is what they’re made of. Wood and engineered wood are natural products, composed entirely of wood. However, the former consists of only one type of wood, while the latter usually is made up of two types of wood – a top layer of a minimum 3mm thickness, supported by layers of plywood beneath.

On the other hand, vinyl flooring is made of synthetic material – polyvinyl chloride (PVC) – with colours and patterns (including those resembling wood grains) printed onto its topmost layer.

Feel/texture

The flooring material determines how the floor will feel beneath your feet. Organic materials such as wood and engineered wood bring a feeling of warmth when you tread on them. You also have the option of introducing different textures to the topmost layer of engineered wood, such as distressed or wire-brushed, for a grippier or more fascinating experience for your bare feet.

Vinyl flooring, as a synthetic compound, will feel more plasticky underfoot and will not bring the same kind of warmth and cosy comfort as wood.

Maintenance

When it comes to maintenance or cleaning, a key difference is the need to avoid the use of an overly damp mop for wood or engineered wood floors. Otherwise, cleaning is fuss-free for all three surfaces, which benefit from regular vacuuming and mopping.

Because vinyl has a homogenous composition, it’s also less prone to scratches than wood surfaces. Nonetheless, a benefit of wood and engineered wood is that their top layers can always be restored through re-grinding and re-sanding.

Price

Generally, wood and engineered wood cost more than vinyl tiles due to the time, labour and craftsmanship that go into sourcing the wood and preparing it. This is as opposed to vinyl, which is manufactured. Owners of homes or developments can also potentially lay vinyl tiles themselves to save on costs, while wood and engineered wood require specialised knowledge and expertise for installation.

Customisability

Among the three, the least customisable is wood; those who prefer it usually select from among different wood types for a specific natural colour and grain. Engineered wood, while composed of wood, allows for different colours and textures for its top layer, which are introduced when the wood is processed.

A wider range of dimensions for each engineered wood plank is also possible as compared to wood. Engineered wood’s composition, with layers of plywood beneath, results in greater stability no matter what size the planks are cut to.

As vinyl is a matter of printing the desired image onto the top layer, its customisability will depend on the product range that you go for – some offer more varied patterns and colours than others.

Environmental friendliness

A bonus of using wood and engineered wood is that their natural composition guarantees they won’t bring in any toxic chemicals or compounds. Depending on the materials used in its production, vinyl can give off fumes with varying levels of toxicity, so it’s best to check what the manufacturing process is like.

As a form of plastic, vinyl will also take much longer to decompose upon disposal than wood or engineered wood.

However, if you’re opting for wood or engineered wood, check that they’re harvested sustainably from well-managed forests. For example, we source wood from suppliers who are certified by the likes of the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) or the Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification (PEFC).

Keen to find out more about which flooring material is right for you? Check out our range of wood and engineered wood or click on the chat button to get in touch.

Goodwood Park Hotel and the Ritz Carlton are among the hotels that have opted for engineered wood.

Engineered wood is fast becoming the flooring of choice for many hotels. In Singapore, several premium hotels have chosen engineered wood as flooring for their guest rooms and function halls. For example, we worked with Ritz Carlton, One Farrer Hotel and Spa, and Goodwood Park Hotel – hospitality properties focused on luxury, wellness and heritage respectively – to provide engineered wood flooring that met their needs.

We break down the rationale behind hotels favouring engineered wood.

Highly sustainable

One reason why hotels opt for engineered wood is because of its sustainability. Engineered wood maximises the harvested timber, as it only forms the topmost 4mm to 6mm layer of the engineered wood planks. This means that less timber is required as compared to solid wood, which has a thickness of around 15mm to 20mm.

Using engineered wood can hence help hotels to fulfil the criteria for attaining the Building and Construction Authority’s Green Mark certification. The scheme evaluates each building’s environmental impact and performance.

Sustainability was a priority for all three hotels, informing their choice of flooring. They have since received the certification; One Farrer Hotel and Spa was conferred with the Platinum certification, which is the highest possible tier of recognition.

Plentiful options for customisation

Another reason for engineered wood’s popularity is its ease of customisation. As it is processed in a factory, a wide range of colours and textures can be introduced to produce unique and attractive looks. For instance, wire-brushed, distressed and sawn-cut textures differentiate wood surfaces from the usual smooth finishes and can enhance the aesthetic and experience of the floor.

While all three hotels selected white oak, each customised the flooring to vastly different effects:

One Farrer Hotel and Spa opted for its flooring to have an aged rustic appearance, and chose two shades for its suites – one a rich chocolate brown, the other a lighter hue – which were achieved through oiled finishes.

Goodwood Park Hotel selected a light tan, and a smoked oak aesthetic. The panels were installed in a herringbone pattern.

The Ritz Carlton meanwhile opted for rift and quarter oak, which beautifully displays the timber’s vertical grain, in a natural shade for its function hall.

In addition, engineered wood flooring offers more flexibility when it comes to plank dimensions. Engineered wood is better able to maintain its dimensional stability compared to solid wood, and can afford wider widths without having to increase the thickness of its planks.

Robust stability of engineered wood planks

Engineered wood is manufactured such that multiple layers of plywood (our products utilise the highest quality birch) support the topmost layer of solid wood. This composition allows for each plank to be more stable as compared to solid wood, meaning that it will react less to changes in the temperature and environment.

Whether your room is hot or cold, there will be minimal chances of engineered wood expanding and contracting, and leaving gaps in the flooring.

Hardier coating due to UV curing

Around seven layers of protective coating are typically applied to engineered wood in the factory, and each one is cured with ultraviolet rays. This results in longer lasting durability for the coating, and hence a decreased susceptibility to scuffs, stains and damage for the wood flooring. This is especially useful for hotels and other commercial properties which see high foot traffic.

In contrast, solid wood usually has around three layers of protective coating, which is applied by hand onsite and left to dry.

No downtime required

As all sanding and coating of engineered wood is done in the factory, no further processing is needed after installation. Whereas for solid wood, a minimum of 14 days is required to allow the wood to acclimatise at the site after installation, following which sanding and coating is carried out.

Conclusion

Engineered wood provides multiple benefits for hotels and commercial buildings with its customisability, durable coating, stable structure and sustainability. The lack of downtime post-installation is another bonus.

Engineered wood can also be a suitable option for homeowners who prefer a unique look or particular dimensions for their wood panels.

Intrigued? Find out more about our engineered wood products or contact us with any questions using the website’s chat button.