Bamboo 101

Bamboo has long been used throughout Asia, but has been gaining a steady foothold in the Western world as well. To help you consider whether you want to use bamboo in your next interior design project, here are some fun facts to consider.

• Bamboo absorbs 4 times more carbon dioxide and produces 30-40% more oxygen than comparable trees.
  
• Bamboo grows on every continent except Antarctica and is tolerant up to 20 degrees below zero Fahrenheit.
• Bamboo is rapidly renewable and, unlike a tree, bamboo canes can be harvested multiple times without damaging the root system. Once cane is cut, new stalks sprout, will reach full growth in 6 months and will be harvested in 3-5 years.
  

• Bamboo is very strong because of the long fibers. Because of this strength, bamboo products tend to be lighter in weight than comparable wood products.
• Bamboo requires no more care than any other wood product.

 

• Bamboo is generally less expensive than traditional hardwood floors, but it falls in the medium price range for exotic woods when used in cabinetry and furniture.

• Bamboo is generally available in 3 color choices: natural, carbonized and caramelized. The latter two are darker and are achieved when bamboo is heated and the sugars burn.
  

Will you be using bamboo in the future? I certainly will!

Beautiful Habitat: Luxury Interior Design www.beautifulhabitat.com