damon, Author at Vienna Woods

Case Study: Modern Architectural Design at Westmere House

A Modern Architect’s Approach to Transformation

Westmere House, designed by Matt Robinson of HMOA Architects, stands as a striking example of modern architectural design. Originally a modest 75m² state house, the property has been transformed into a refined, contemporary home. Through a carefully considered renovation, the design balances heritage elements with bold modern interventions, seamlessly integrating the existing structure with a striking new extension.

The Role of European Oak Flooring in Modern Architecture

Central to the renovation is the use of high-quality European oak flooring from Vienna Woods’ Foundation Collection. Selected for its warmth, texture, and timeless appeal, this flooring enhances the home’s refined material palette. The natural oak tones contrast beautifully with the crisp, modern detailing, grounding the space with an inviting warmth.

Throughout the home, precise negative detailing and clean architectural lines complement the soft, organic beauty of timber flooring. In this modern architectural design, the flooring plays a pivotal role in connecting different spaces, unifying the home’s contemporary and traditional elements.

modern architecture - west mere home - natural wood flooring

Seamless Indoor-Outdoor Connection

A key feature of Westmere House is its strong connection to the surrounding landscape. Expansive glass sliders blur the boundaries between interior and exterior, a hallmark of modern architecture. The warmth of the engineered oak flooring extends throughout these open-plan spaces, reinforcing the sense of continuity between the indoors and the natural environment.

White oak hardwood flooring in open plan living dining with timber ceilings and a view

Thoughtful Design Enhancements

The renovation introduced carefully considered interior refinements, including ceiling-height doors and an elegant material selection that reinforces the home’s contemporary yet welcoming aesthetic. The kitchen serves as a key transitional space, its clean lines and sculptural elements reflecting the overall design philosophy. Each detail—down to the choice of flooring—was meticulously planned to enhance both form and function.

Capturing the Essence of Modern Architecture

Photographer Jackie Meiring expertly captured the home’s architectural details, showcasing the synergy between modern design principles and natural materials. The play of light, texture, and contrast highlights how the European oak flooring enhances the spatial experience, adding depth and character to the interiors.

natural wood floor in modern architecture

A Testament to Modern Architectural Design

Westmere House exemplifies the power of modern architecture to transform a space while retaining warmth and livability. The integration of Vienna Woods’ European oak flooring is a defining element, bringing both aesthetic refinement and long-term durability to this architecturally significant home.

Explore More

At Vienna Woods, we specialise in premium engineered timber flooring designed to elevate architectural spaces. If you’re looking to integrate high-quality oak flooring into your next project, contact us today or visit our showroom.

Photography by Jackie Meiring
Architect: Matt Robinson, HMOA Architects
Builder: Justin Langdon, Carpintero Builders

White Oak Hardwood Flooring at Hilltop Haven

A Stunning Blend of Architecture and Nature

An excellent showcase of how white oak hardwood flooring can bring a refined and subtle sophistication to a space.

Hilltop Haven, perched in the breathtaking surrounds of Lake Tarawera, Rotorua, epitomises harmony between design and nature. Created by Box Design and brought to life by Tailored Builds, this family home embraces the natural landscape while offering a contemporary retreat. Its elevated position captures expansive lake views, while clever architectural elements ensure maximum sunlight throughout the day.

The Elegance of White Oak Flooring

At the heart of the interior is the exquisite white oak hardwood flooring from Vienna Woods’ Foundation Collection. Selected for its clean, natural aesthetic, the prime grade oak features minimal knots and a soft grain pattern. This creates a seamless, refined look that enhances the home’s modern design.

The flooring’s engineered construction ensures superior stability and resistance to environmental changes, making it ideal for New Zealand homes. Its adaptability to underfloor heating further cements its place in high-performance architectural projects.

Why White Oak Hardwood Flooring Was the Perfect Choice

The light tones of the white oak complement the natural surroundings, reflecting the serene beauty of the bush and lake. The durable finish withstands the demands of family life while maintaining its timeless elegance. Whether bathed in sunlight or softened by the evening glow, the flooring adds warmth and depth to every room.

Collaboration and Craftsmanship

This project exemplifies the power of collaboration. Tailored Builds delivered exceptional craftsmanship, ensuring every detail aligned with the architectural vision. Photographer Sophie Heyworth beautifully captured the interplay of light, material, and form, showcasing the home’s timeless appeal.

A Haven That Inspires

Hilltop Haven demonstrates how thoughtful design, paired with premium materials, creates a home that feels at one with its environment. The combination of Box Design’s architectural expertise and Vienna Woods’ high-quality white oak hardwood flooring results in a home that is both functional and inspiring.

For more details on the Foundation Collection and the white oak hardwood flooring used in this project, visit our product page.

Featured Flooring: Oak Pureline

Architect: Box The Architect Builder

Builder: Tailored Builds

Flooring Consultant: Razvan

Comparing the Cost of Maintaining Oiled Timber vs Lacquered Timber Floors

Oiling wood floors or lacquering; What is the best option for you with regards to maintenance?

A lacquered floor will have a little more sheen and you may notice a slight almost “plastic” film over the top of the floor. An oiled floor will feel more natural and the sheen will sit in the grain. When it comes to choosing the right finish for timber floors, homeowners often weigh up between oil and lacquer. Both finishes have their pros and cons, but the real difference often comes down to maintenance, cost, and longevity. In this article, we’re going to dive into the cost of maintaining oiled timber floors compared to lacquered floors, and why the choice you make impacts your floor’s future.

The protection systems on an oiled vs lacquered floor are quite different. A lacquered floor has a layer of protection that sits on top of the timber and prevents damage through physical shielding. An oiled floor is saturated with oil and this is what protects an oil floor from staining and other damage.

Oiled Floors: A Low-Disruption Maintenance Plan

Oiled timber floors require regular maintenance. On average, homeowners should expect to apply a maintenance coat of oil every 1 to 3 years, depending on the foot traffic and environment. The average area of timber flooring in a home in New Zealand is about 80m2. If we assume that NZ homeowners will engage a professional to maintain their floors, then we make some assumptions about general cost and disruption. That said, many owners of oiled wood floors prefer to undertake their own maintenance. If done by a professional a 80m2 floor may cost around $1,500 per maintenance session.

Here’s why oiled floors might be worth the regular upkeep:

Flexibility: Floor oiling is far less disruptive than sanding and refinishing a lacquered floor. You don’t need to move out of the house or clear out rooms. The process is quicker and easier.
No Reduction in Timber Lifespan: Refinishing is often required when lacquer wears down, but it’s not the timber that’s the problem. Timber can last over 100 years if cared for properly, but sanding it down with each lacquer application shortens the lifespan of the floorboards themselves.
Improvement Over Time: Oiling wood floors actually improves the floor over time. As an oiled timber floor develops its character and patina, it gets better with age. The protective oils soak into the wood, enhancing its durability.

The Reality of Lacquered Floors

Lacquered floors, on the other hand, have a different story. While lacquer looks fantastic on day one, it deteriorates over time, particularly in high-traffic areas or spots that receive direct sunlight. Once the lacquer fails, the only way to restore the floor’s appearance is to sand it down and reapply the lacquer, which is a big job. Sanding and refinishing a floor can be disruptive to a household and often requires furniture removed from the spaces for around a week while the work is being undertaken. We estimate the cost based on an average of 80m2 of timber floor area.

Here are some points to consider about lacquered floors:

Initial Appearance: Lacquered floors are at their best on the day they’re finished. They provide a hard, protective layer that resists scratching and wear.
Cost of Refinishing: When the lacquer starts to fail (often after 10+ years), the only solution is sanding the entire floor and reapplying the lacquer, which can cost upwards of $12,000. This process also reduces the lifespan of the timber.
Lifespan Impact: Every time you sand the floor to reapply lacquer, you’re removing a layer of the timber, which shortens the overall lifespan of your floorboards. The more often you do it, the more timber you lose.

European oak timber flooring dark brown thumbnail - Petite Chateau Nice

European oak flooring thumbnail light natural colour - Petite Chateau Bordeaux

“It’s usually not the wood that has failed when a floor need sanding, it is the protection system.”

Maintenance Is Key for Oiled Floors

One important thing to note: an oiled floor needs proper maintenance. Without regular cleaning and oiling, the floor will dry out. And once that happens, it’s much more susceptible to staining. If your oiled floor gets dry, it will absorb stains and damage easily.

So, while oiling wood floors provides flexibility and longevity, it’s only a good option if you (or your clients) are committed to regular maintenance. If you aren’t ready to maintain the floor consistently, you might want to reconsider and choose a finish that requires less upkeep.

Key Takeaways for Homeowners

Here’s a quick comparison to help you decide between an oiled floor and a lacquered one:

Oiled Timber Floors:

Require maintenance every 1 to 3 years.
Costs around $1,500 per maintenance session.
The process is low disruption—no need to sand or move out.
Improves over time, with added character and durability.
Requires regular upkeep. If neglected, an oiled floor will dry out and become more susceptible to stains.

Lacquered Timber Floors:

No maintenance needed for the first 10+ years.
Requires sanding and refinishing after lacquer wears down, costing around $12,000.
Every sanding shortens the timber’s lifespan.
Looks best on day one but deteriorates over time, especially in high-traffic and sun-exposed areas.

The following diagram provides a general comparison of the condition of oiled and lacquered timber floors between maintenance cycles, as well as a cost comparison for each type of finish.

Graph showing the maintenance lifecycle of timber floors in comparison oiling wood floors vs sanding and refinishing lacquered timber floors

Choosing between an oiled or lacquered timber floor isn’t just about how it looks—it’s about the long-term maintenance and costs. Oiling wood floors provides a beautiful, flexible option that can last for years if maintained properly, but it does require a commitment to upkeep. Lacquered floors, while stunning at first, need costly sanding and refinishing to restore them after the lacquer fails.

At the end of the day, if you’re looking for a timber floor that gains character with age, oiling is the way to go. But if you prefer a finish that’s lower maintenance (at least for the first decade), lacquer might be a better fit. Just remember, the longevity of your floor depends on how you care for it, so choose wisely.

For more advice on floor oiling, timber floor cleaning, and the costs involved, feel free to get in touch with our team or visit our Knowledge Pages. We’ll help you find the right finish for your timber floors!

Interested in maintenance products for your timber floor? See oiled floor maintenance products here. Lacquered floor maintenance products here.

Petit Chateau Collection: Quality Timber Flooring at a Reasonable Price

When it comes to quality timber flooring, nothing beats the natural elegance of European oak. Our Petit Chateau Collection is where timeless beauty meets modern craftsmanship, offering the best of oak flooring to elevate any space.

We designed Petit Chateau to offer New Zealanders timber flooring that embodies both fantastic quality and exceptional value. As wood flooring specialists, we’ve created a product that not only looks stunning but also meets the highest European standards. This range provides real value for money, allowing you to enjoy the beauty and durability of European oak without compromising on quality or our commitment to excellence.

Why Choose the Petit Chateau Collection?

The Petit Chateau range is crafted from premium European oak, known for its durability and striking grain patterns. We’ve meticulously designed this collection to provide luxury without the hefty price tag. Here’s what makes it stand out:

Thick, High-Quality Planks: Each plank is 15mm thick with a 4mm wear layer, ensuring longevity. This thickness allows for multiple refinishes, extending the life of your floor.
UV Lacquer Finish: The seven layers of German-made UV lacquer give a durable, smooth finish, which not only protects the floor but also brings out the natural beauty of the oak.
Value Without Compromise: We believe luxury doesn’t need to break the bank. By avoiding unnecessary processing, and focusing on quality over excessive grades, we deliver elegance and practicality.
European Charm: Each product is named after charming French towns, adding a touch of Europe to your home. Ever wondered why Lyon was chosen? It’s not just about the French aesthetic; it’s inspired by the town’s timeless elegance!

Benefits of the Petit Chateau Collection

Unmatched Durability: The robust 15mm thickness combined with the UV lacquer finish makes these floors built to last.
Effortless Maintenance: Thanks to the lacquered surface, cleaning is simple. It’s perfect for busy homes and commercial spaces.
Versatile Design: Whether you want a modern minimalist look or classic warmth, the natural grain patterns of European oak complement any style.
Environmentally Conscious: The collection focuses on maximising the use of every piece of timber, reducing waste and making it a sustainable choice.
Refinishable: With a 4mm wear layer, you can sand and refinish your floor several times, giving it a refreshed look whenever you desire.

Why You’ll Love It

Here’s a little-known fact: the Petit Chateau Collection’s name was inspired by the graceful architecture of French countryside estates. So, when you choose this range, you’re not just getting a floor; you’re adding a touch of European charm to your space!

Light Natural Oak Timber Flooring thumbnail - Lyon from Petit Chateau

Warm brown oak timber flooring thumbnail. Petite Chateau Oak Cannes

Looking For Quality Timber Flooring at a Reasonable Price?

The Petit Chateau Collection offers the beauty of European oak, real quality timber flooring, and unmatched value. Explore the range today and bring a slice of French elegance into your home. Contact the team at Vienna Woods for samples and pricing information.

Browse Petit Chateau

How to Identify High-Quality Timber Flooring

Choosing the right timber flooring for your space is a significant decision that requires careful consideration of various factors. High-quality timber flooring not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of your home but also provides durability and long-term value. In this guide, we will explore the essential elements to consider when selecting timber flooring, focusing on factors such as the country of origin, thickness of the lamella, overall thickness, dimensions, finishing processes, timber grading, certifications, and warranties. Understanding these aspects will help you make an informed decision and ensure that your investment stands the test of time.

Country of Origin

The country of origin is a critical factor in determining the quality of timber flooring. Timber sourced from countries with stringent forestry practices, such as France, Germany, and Austria, is known for its superior quality. For example, French oak is valued for its tight grain, large amount of grain movement and consistent colour, making it a popular choice for both modern and traditional interiors. Timber from these regions is often harvested sustainably, ensuring that the wood is mature and robust. Choosing timber from countries with less rigorous standards may result in lower quality flooring, which can affect its durability and appearance over time.

Thickness of Lamella

The lamella refers to the top layer of engineered timber flooring, which is typically made from hardwood. A thicker lamella, ideally between 3mm to 6mm, is crucial for the floor’s longevity. A thicker top layer allows for multiple sandings and refinishes, extending the floor’s lifespan significantly. For instance, a 4mm lamella can be sanded up to three times, ensuring that your floor maintains its appearance for decades. In contrast, a thinner lamella may limit the number of refinishes, reducing the flooring’s overall durability.

Overall Thickness

The overall thickness of engineered timber flooring plays a significant role in its stability and durability. Floors with a thickness of 14mm to 20mm are more resistant to changes in temperature and humidity, making them ideal for the New Zealand climate. Thicker flooring provides better insulation and soundproofing, offering a more solid feel underfoot. Additionally, it contributes to the structural integrity of the floor, reducing the risk of warping or bending over time.

Engineered timber floor types cross-section

Width and Length

The width and length of timber planks can greatly impact the overall look and feel of your flooring. Wider planks, ranging from 180mm to 300mm, create a sense of space and luxury, while longer planks reduce the number of visible joints, offering a seamless appearance. However, it is essential to ensure that these planks are well-milled and stable, as longer lengths can be more prone to warping if not properly manufactured.

Lacquer Curing Process and Lacquer Used

The lacquer curing process is crucial in determining the durability and maintenance needs of your timber flooring. High-quality lacquers, such as those cured using UV or LED technologies, provide a strong, wear-resistant surface that protects the wood from daily wear and tear. The process involves applying multiple layers of lacquer, each cured under UV light, which hardens the finish and enhances the wood’s natural beauty. The type of lacquer used, whether water-based or solvent-based, also affects the floor’s appearance and performance. Water-based lacquers are generally more environmentally friendly, emitting fewer volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and improving indoor air quality.

Oil Used and Oil Curing Process

Oiled finishes offer a more natural look and feel, enhancing the wood’s grain and texture. The type of oil used and the curing process significantly impact the floor’s durability and maintenance. High-quality oils, like hardwax oil, penetrate deeply into the wood, offering protection from within. The curing process may take several days, but the result is a beautiful, easy-to-maintain floor. Regular oil reapplication is necessary to keep the floor in top condition, but this also allows for spot repairs without the need to refinish the entire floor.

Timber Grading

Timber grading refers to the visual characteristics of the wood, including colour variation, knots, and grain patterns. High-quality timber flooring typically falls into prime, select, or rustic grades. Prime grade timber has minimal knots and a uniform appearance, making it ideal for sleek, modern interiors. Select grade offers more variation, with some knots and colour differences, while rustic grade features more prominent knots and natural imperfections, giving the floor a more traditional look. Higher grades, like prime, are often more stable and less prone to movement, providing a long-lasting, high-quality finish.

Certifications

Certifications are essential for ensuring that your timber flooring meets environmental and quality standards. Look for certifications like FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) or PEFC (Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification), which guarantee that the timber has been sourced from responsibly managed forests. These certifications ensure that your flooring contributes to sustainable practices and has a minimal environmental impact. Additionally, certifications from independent testing bodies indicate that the flooring complies with international standards for durability, emissions, and safety.

Warranties

A comprehensive warranty is a sign of confidence in the product’s quality. High-quality timber flooring often comes with extensive warranties covering structural integrity, wear resistance, and finish durability. A warranty period of 20 to 30 years suggests that the manufacturer believes in the product’s longevity. Be sure to read the warranty details to understand what is covered, as this can also provide insights into the flooring’s expected performance.

Quality of Textural Wood Treatments

Textural treatments like bandsawing, brushing, or hand-scraping add unique character to timber flooring, enhancing its natural beauty. These treatments should be executed with precision to ensure they do not compromise the wood’s integrity. High-quality treatments will highlight the wood’s grain and natural features without weakening the plank or creating inconsistencies in the finish. Look for uniformity and craftsmanship in these treatments, as poorly executed techniques can lead to uneven wear and reduced longevity.

Additionally, these treatments usually depend on specialised processes to look authentic. An authentically executed texture treatment will make all the difference when it somes to the look and feel of your flooring.

oiled herringbone timber floor in open kitchen and dining room with high ceiling

Quality Factors and how they Impact Pricing:

Factor	Description	Impact on Price
Country of Origin	Refers to where the timber is sourced. Countries like France and Germany are known for high-quality timber.	Higher quality and sustainability standards in countries like France and Germany typically result in a higher price.
Thickness of Lamella	The top layer of engineered flooring, usually made of hardwood.	A thicker lamella increases the price due to the ability to refinish multiple times, adding longevity and durability.
Overall Thickness	Total thickness of the engineered flooring, including all layers.	Thicker overall flooring generally commands a higher price due to increased stability, insulation, and durability.
Width and Length	The dimensions of the planks, with wider and longer planks being more desirable.	Wider and longer planks are more expensive due to the larger, high-quality timber required and the premium aesthetic.
Lacquer Curing Process	The method used to harden the lacquer finish, such as UV curing.	Advanced curing processes like UV or LED increase the price due to the durability and enhanced finish they provide.
Lacquer Used	The type of lacquer applied, including water-based or solvent-based options.	High-quality lacquers, particularly low-VOC options, are more costly due to their environmental and health benefits.
Oil Used and Curing Process	The type of oil applied for finishing and how it is cured.	High-quality oils and longer curing processes increase costs due to the enhanced durability and finish they provide.
Timber Grading	Visual and structural characteristics such as knots and grain patterns.	Higher grades (e.g., prime) are more expensive due to their uniform appearance and higher structural stability.
Certifications	Environmental and quality certifications such as FSC or PEFC.	Certified products typically come at a premium due to the assurance of sustainability and adherence to strict standards.
Warranties	The duration and coverage of the product’s warranty.	Extended warranties increase the price as they reflect the manufacturer’s confidence in the product’s longevity.
Textural Wood Treatments	Processes like brushing or hand-scraping that add texture to the wood.	High-quality, handcrafted textural treatments are more costly due to the labour and skill involved in achieving them.

Reclaimed wood herringbone silver grey colour close up

When selecting timber flooring in Auckland or anywhere else, understanding these key factors is crucial for making an informed decision. High-quality timber flooring offers not only aesthetic appeal but also durability and long-term value. By considering the country of origin, lamella thickness, overall thickness, dimensions, finishing processes, timber grading, certifications, warranties, and textural treatments, you can ensure that you are choosing a flooring solution that will stand the test of time.

For more insights into choosing the best engineered timber flooring and hardwood floors, feel free to explore our range of high-quality products. At Vienna Woods, we are committed to providing flooring solutions that combine beauty, durability, and sustainability.

By following these guidelines, you can confidently navigate the market for timber flooring in Auckland, ensuring that your investment enhances the beauty and value of your home.

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