Journal / Materials · July 2026

Oak, ash or birch?

These three woods cover almost everything we build, but they behave very differently.

Oak is the most forgiving: hard, stable and beautiful when it ages. It is our default for floors and tables.

Ash has a livelier grain and takes white oil very well, so we use it for joinery in bright rooms.

Birch is light and inexpensive. As plywood it is perfect for workspaces and children’s rooms, where things are allowed to look honest.

— Nordic Space studio