Oak Furniture

Collection of oak furniture with German design

Designed by German designer Martin Ballendat and made in Austria, our oak furniture collection encompasses different furniture items for the most exclusive homes and residences: dining and coffee tables, beds, nightstands, chairs and armchairs and even benches.

To warm up your interior, while keeping a pure atmosphere, you can furnish your living spaces with oak furniture. This material will allow you to make your interior a refined, modern and unique space, according to your tastes and the customization you wish to make.

For this, we have set up a partnership with an Austrian furniture producer who uses high quality materials. This internationally renowned manufacturer combines luxurious design and high-end quality with Austrian craftsmanship.

High-end oak furniture exclusively at Imagine Outlet

Tables, armchairs, benches, sofas and storage furniture, the choice is varied and will satisfy your desires. These exceptional pieces of furniture are made from one of the noblest and most sought-after woods in cabinetmaking, oak. Here, German design combined with Austrian craftsmanship makes it possible to obtain modern, designer furniture and, above all, very high quality.

The oak used is of superior quality and comes from plantations managed sustainably according to the FSC label which guarantees the traceability of the wood.

Oak allows you to design contemporary furniture that will adapt to your needs thanks to its versatility. It will also be possible to find solutions for your electronic and Hifi equipment.

As for the leather that you will find, for example, on our benches, chairs and armchairs, it is cowhide leather, having undergone an ecological tanning process and treated with high quality fats to guarantee a smooth feel. You will also find this designer furniture with a covering in virgin sheep’s wool of the best possible quality, called “loden” in German, or 100% merino wool.

The leather selected is a soft, high quality leather that will make your interior a space of luxury.

All shapes are achievable thanks to wood, so you can find it in any room in your house: dining room, bathroom, bedroom, living room, kitchen. For this, we offer versatile and removable furniture that makes this furniture magnificent and, above all, unique pieces.

In order to preserve your furniture, and to maintain the resistance and beauty of this noble material that is oak, an oil treatment will be provided with the furniture.

Oak furniture in all its forms

Table of Contents

• Origin, reputation and mastery of oak
  • The oak, a remarkable tree
    • Where are these exceptional trees found?
    • How long does an oak tree last?
    • What is the natural color of oak?
  • It is considered one of the most prestigious woods
    • A powerful symbolism
    • A type of wood favored by craftsmen
• Solid oak furniture: characteristics, virtues and disadvantages
  • What are the advantages of solid oak furniture?
    • Robust and solid furniture
    • A resistant wood containing tannin: a very virtuous acid
    • A piece of furniture with varied styles and finishes
  • What are the disadvantages of solid oak furniture?
    • Proper maintenance is necessary
    • A relatively heavy wood
    • An expensive material
  • You are not seduced by this type of wood? Take a look at walnut furniture instead
• How to choose the ideal oak furniture: models and parameters to take into account
  • Modern solid oak furniture models:
    • Designer chairs in solid oak
    • Modern solid oak tables
    • Contemporary sideboards and consoles
  • What are the differences between oak and solid oak?
    • Variation in grain and texture of oak
    • Weight difference
    • Price gap
• Oak furniture: flexible furniture that adapts to all styles
  • Rustic style
  • The classic style
  • Scandinavian style
  • Industrial style
  • Modern style
• How to perfectly maintain and integrate your oak furniture into your living space?
  • Interview
    • How to protect your oak furniture?
    • Restore the shine to your furniture in two steps
      • Wax
      • Vegetable oils
      • The nailpolish
  • Integration
    • What colors can you combine with your oak furniture?
      • White and Yellow
      • Gray and Black
      • Bright colors
      • Natural colors

Origin, reputation and mastery of oak

The oak, a remarkable tree

Where are these exceptional trees found?

Oak is found in Mediterranean areas as well as in tropical areas. Moreover, the largest exporters of oak in the world, Spain, Algeria and Morocco are all in the Mediterranean basin. It turns out that Europe is home to 27 different species of oaks among the hundreds of existing species (between 200 and 600). Some have an important place in the heritage of European countries, as is the case for the cork oak in Portugal, with which cork is produced.

In France we can find 8 of them: holm, cork, kermes, tauzin, sessile, pedunculate, pubescent and hairy oaks. It is the most widespread tree in France before the pine and mainly populates national forests. Colbert, minister during the reign of Louis XIV, wanted to massively cultivate oak trees in these forests in order to use them to build the warships of the time. However, construction methods have evolved over time, stopping almost all production of wooden boats. So, the oaks were able to extend their roots in these forest areas where we can admire them by the hundreds.

How long does an oak tree last?

The lifespan of an oak tree is very impressive as it can easily reach 500 years, or even more than 1000 years in some cases. Given their life expectancy, it is not surprising to say that they are imposing trees that can reach one meter in diameter and 40 meters in height. Most French trees which surprise with their size and lifespan belong to this noble species. Moreover, the Allouville oak in Normandy, dating from the time of Charlemagne, still flowers and attracts up to 30,000 curious people each year. Over time, this oak hollowed out and two tiny chapels were built inside. Since 2009, it has been included in the inventory of intangible cultural heritage in France.

Beyond its aesthetic potential, oak is of interest in many other areas such as biodiversity. Scientists call this tree a biodiversity hotspot because it hosts a large number of species within its branches. In addition, the oak is a highly valued tree even after its death since it continues to host a host of species forming a small ecosystem on its own.

What is the natural color of oak?

Untreated oak wood generally has a light brown color, which distinguishes it from other woods. However, depending on the species of oak grown, this color can vary between the reddish dominants of red oak and the olive shades of white oak. Do not think that oak necessarily has a light color since when it is treated, the color range widens considerably. Staining is a technique offering a wide range of choices ranging from a natural white oak shade to black smoked oak. Thanks to these variations, you will be able to find the oak that best suits your living space.

Discover the different shades that this noble wood can take

It is considered one of the most prestigious woods

A powerful symbolism

Due to its history and its value over time, this tree has acquired considerable symbolism. This is the opportunity for us to share with you some captivating anecdotes about oak:

Indeed, it is said that King Louis IX administered justice under a majestic oak tree. The chronicler Jean de Joinville testifies in Life of Saint Louis: “Many times it happened that in summer, he went to sit in the Bois de Vincennes […] and leaned against an oak tree […]. And those who had business came to speak to him without hindrance from the bailiff or others.” Thus was born the image of a just king practicing his duty under an oak tree, an image now anchored in French culture. In a completely different register this time, Robin Hood, legendary hero of British fiction, has his headquarters in an oak tree in Sherwood Forest. He works against evil and injustice in search of a better world from this same oak tree. These anecdotes and references to the oak particularly link it to the concept of Justice.

Beyond being a symbol of justice, it also represents sustainability. We find this symbolism in particular through the oak wedding which is celebrated after 80 years of marriage in French folklore.

Finally, throughout history we have seen the oak tree associated with the political stability of certain states. This was the case in France with franc coins illustrating olive and oak wreaths or even German euro cents represented by an oak branch. Representing longevity, wisdom and strength, oak is considered a charming and prestigious wood.

A type of wood favored by craftsmen

Oak is the subject of extraordinary artisanal know-how. It was used to produce all types of objects ranging from warships to barrels for aging wines or spirits. Beyond its wood, the tannin it carries is also attractive. This has always been of great use since Antiquity. Tannin is a component used to tan hides or to bring a woody flavor to wine. Architecture, too, has demonstrated its curiosity for this type of authentic and sober wood. One of the most beautiful concert halls was built almost entirely from this wood. The Malmö Live Concert Hall illustrates the oak in all its splendor.

Needless to say, the prestige and beauty of this wood has obviously not escaped designers and cabinetmakers from around the world who have designed numerous pieces using oak wood. The SPIN chair created by Martin Ballendat is one of our favorite solid oak pieces of furniture. Obviously, there are a variety of pieces of furniture made from this wood with different shades, shapes and styles.

Solid oak furniture: characteristics, virtues and disadvantages

What are the advantages of solid oak furniture?

Oak furniture has seduced the whole world through its authenticity and longevity. Obviously we never tire of this furniture since it continues to become trendy again. Indeed, if oak furniture is so captivating, it is because it has many significant advantages and virtues. We mention some of them below.

Robust and solid furniture

One of the primary advantages of oak is its robustness. There are four classes ranging from the least solid woods to the strongest woods: class A (soft wood), class B (semi-hard wood), class C (hard wood) and class D (very hard wood). Oak belongs to the hardwood class (Class C) along with beech and maple wood. For comparison, it is even stronger than walnut and chestnut.

We can also place oak on the Janka scale, created by engineer Gabriel Janka, which seeks to give an overall indicator of the durability of woods. The test seeks to know the force necessary for a steel ball with a diameter of 11.284mm to sink halfway into the wood. So, the higher the score, the stronger the wood is considered. Oak obtains a good score of 1360. Even if it is far from obtaining the first score (4380 for Lignum Vitae), it is still ahead of walnut (1010) and chestnut (540). This characteristic undoubtedly explains a large part of its timeless success. Its long-term quality is undeniably assured thanks to the hardness and longevity of its wood. Solid oak wood furniture can therefore be passed down over several generations if it is well maintained.

A resistant wood containing tannin: a very virtuous acid

Oak is not only solid, it is also a wood that can be described as durable. As we mentioned previously, this wood comes from a tree symbol of sustainability, with a spectacular life expectancy. It is therefore not surprising that it is qualified as a resistant and durable wood. Indeed, if it was used in the 19th century in Europe for shipbuilding, it is because it rarely deforms and is water resistant thanks to its high tannin content. This solution gives the oak impressive resistance. It resists rot quite well but also insects.

However, this advantage should not be taken for granted because the weak point of tannin is undeniably humidity. Indeed, if a piece of furniture is exposed to water, it risks losing its tannin leading to a loss of resistance. If this exposure is repeated, you risk seeing blue-black stains appear on your oak furniture. This can be a real problem when purchasing furniture from tropical countries like Asia. Furniture is often stored in poorly insulated warehouses while waiting for a container to be sent. The humidity is such that it could attack your furniture and leave stains on it. In this sense, it is much more far-sighted to order furniture from Europe where storage conditions are much more suitable for furniture that should not be exposed to humidity.

A piece of furniture with varied styles and finishes

Oak furniture appeals to everyone. Its authentic color gives it a natural charm that goes well with many other colors. This aesthetically attractive wood can take on several appearances. First of all, its grain and knots can vary depending on their origin. Some oaks have small, tight knots and others have larger, scattered ones. Wood is an imperfect material, which means that each piece of wooden furniture is distinguished by knots and a particular grain. Each piece of solid wood furniture is unique.

In addition, oak can be treated and come in several colors. So, if you are not charmed by its color or think that it will not fit well into your living space, you can always choose from a wide palette of colors and find what you are looking for. To our great joy, oak wood lends itself quite well to painting, staining or lacquering, making it easy to vary the colors and finishes of oak furniture. Here is the color palette that we offer to allow you to have furniture that suits you.

What are the disadvantages of solid oak furniture?

As you can imagine, oak furniture obviously does not only have advantages. There are also some drawbacks that are good to know about. We detail them below.

Proper maintenance is necessary

We discussed the many virtues of oak furniture. Unfortunately, it is necessary to remember that good maintenance of these is necessary so that they can maintain optimal resistance and durability. We share everything you need to know below.

How to maintain your oak furniture?

A relatively heavy wood

Oak remains a dense and heavy wood. We know that when dry this wood weighs 690 kg per 1m3, which makes it heavier than butternut which weighs 450 kg/m3 for example. The main disadvantage that results from this is the difficulty in moving it. Trying to relocate your oak furniture could well prove to be a real ordeal, especially if it involves moving it to another room or floor.

Also be careful to check the delivery conditions before purchasing a piece of furniture! Many companies deliver furniture to the foot of your building or in front of your house, complicating the installation of it in your living room. At Imagine Outlet, we make sure to deliver and install your furniture where you want it in order to offer you the most pleasant experience possible. If assembling your designer oak furniture seems too time-consuming or technical, you can always opt for the assembly option when you place your order.

An expensive material

The price of oak furniture varies depending on the nature of its wood (solid oak, lamination or plywood). The quantity of raw material is not the same for the latter having a direct influence on the price of your furniture. Then you will see a variation in price depending on the color of oak you choose. For example, for the Lamello solid wood dining table , you will see that the price of a natural oak table costs less than a gray or black oak table, treated this time. Don’t forget to evaluate the price of your oak furniture by taking into account its nature as well as its color and finish. Despite the relatively high price of designer oak furniture, it is important to remember that their longevity is guaranteed by the quality and robustness of this noble wood. This type of furniture, if well preserved, is intended to be passed down from generation to generation.

You are not seduced by this type of wood? Take a look at walnut furniture instead

Find out more about solid walnut furniture

 

How to choose the ideal oak furniture: models and parameters to take into account

Modern solid oak furniture models:

Designer chairs in solid oak

An oak chair brings brightness to your living room through its authenticity and simplicity. There is a wide choice of chairs made from solid oak wood. You will find your happiness ! You can even opt for a chair with a seat containing another material such as leather for a more comfortable seat. This is the case of the SPIN chair by Martin Ballendat which combines wood and leather or pure new wool covering to form a comfortable and timeless chair. Both in your office and in your dining room, the SPIN chair will be the star of your living space.