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Transforming Alien Invasive Woods: Homewood’s Journey to Sustainable, Custom Furniture

Our furniture isn’t just about looking good—it’s about doing good.

Forests are more than just a resource, they are the essence of life, supplying the oxygen we breathe and supporting countless species. But as deforestation accelerates, our ecosystems face an undeniable crisis. At Homewood, we’re meeting this challenge head-on with a creative, sustainable solution: transforming invasive alien woods into beautiful, lasting custom furniture.

In collaboration with the Working for Water Programme, we’re helping restore balance to South Africa’s ecosystems. Invasive species like Blackwood, River Red Gum, Cottonwood, and Sugar Gum disrupt local ecosystems, outcompete native plants, and consume excessive amounts of water. By removing these species, we’re conserving water while creating sustainable jobs and restoring habitats.

 And the best part? These invasive woods have incredible potential for crafting one-of-a-kind, custom furniture.

Blackwood: The Dark Horse of Durable Woods

Its rich grain and natural durability make it a top choice for furniture that commands attention, think tables like our Duzu Dining Table. Durable, elegant, and swoon-worthy. According to Etsy’s 2023 Home Decor Trends Guide, dark wood is making a solid comeback, making it the perfect wood for your 2025 furniture design ideas.

River Red Gum: A Striking Alternative to the Classics

Its impressive strength, distinctive deep-red tones and unique fiddle-back pattern make it a showstopper. Ideal for extra-durable, custom furniture pieces, particularly ones which will live outdoors.

Cottonwood: The Practical Charmer

Lightweight, odourless, and incredibly easy to work with. Cottonwood is a great rubberwood replacement, perfect for indoor furniture. Its grain and colour adds texture and freshness to any space.

Sugar Gum: The Overachiever of Hardwoods

With grain patterns like bee’s wing and fiddle-back figures, Sugar Gum offers an aesthetic appeal, providing the perfect eco-friendly alternative to hardwoods like Ash or Oak.

At Homewood, we like to think every piece of furniture comes with a story, ours just happens to start with a few unruly trees. By transforming invasive species into stunning, sustainable custom furniture, we’re giving these woods a second chance to shine. Each piece is a tribute to the natural beauty of wood and a celebration of our commitment to the planet. Choosing Homewood means choosing furniture that brings purpose to your home. So why settle for ordinary?

Browse our ranges today. Bring purpose, and a great story—to your space.

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