This is a faux bois appreciation post

Avery Cox is serious about not taking design too seriously.

I rarely waffle when it comes to work decisions, but making a design choice at home? I’m kind of notorious for crumbling under the pressure of commitment. I aspire to be more like today’s guest editor, Avery Cox, who makes decorating look fun. The Austin-based designer never shies away from taking a big color risk, like dousing a dining nook in a vivid berry red, and gleefully creates visual conflict (yes, a funky, offkilter cabinet does belong in the most minimal of spaces). When tension is the point, failure becomes practically impossible. So, let’s just do it. If Avery has a say, that “it” might be faux bois… —Lindsey Mather, digital director

Current Mood

What I’m loving: I’m rekindling my appreciation for all things faux bois—the art of applying a wood grain pattern to surfaces or furnishings to mimic the look of real wood. This trend has been around for centuries, cycling in and out of fashion. The technique eventually became a symbol of luxury, and from there, it took on a life of its own.

My elevator pitch: Whether you see it as elegant or kitschy, the truth is that faux bois is both a clever and charming way to bring the warmth of wood into a space without using the real thing. I’m drawn to anything where imitation becomes its own kind of beauty: trompe l’oeil, faux-painted marble, wood floors painted to mimic stone checkerboard—the list goes on. There’s a wink in all of it somewhere, and I always try to bring that bit of humor into my work. I’m very serious about not taking things too seriously.

Photography by Avery Cox; Photography by Brittany Ambridge; Design by Abby Larson

Real-life ways to try it:

• I love the look of Black Forest faux bois furniture—it’s dark and moody, and brings a slightly haunted, old-world energy to a space. I’d absolutely place a side table in an otherwise polished, elegant room to create the kind of contrast and tension that makes a space feel layered. I have one in mind for a family room I’m designing with creamy plaster walls, a wheat-and-cream plaid sectional, and hot pink pillows (above left). I think it will be the perfect unexpected touch.

• I’m seriously planning to wallpaper my entire office—walls and ceiling—in a historical faux bois pattern (above right). I’ll pair it with neutral trim paint and bold cherry red accents. Martha Stewart, of course, has utilized this idea to perfection.

• Tableware is such an easy way to dip your toe into faux bois. Try a full set of plates, or mix in a few serving pieces, like Aerin did here.

1. I love the scale and incorporation of color into this porcelain bowl. It would make such a great statement in an entry or on a pedestal in a living space.

2. A common way to incorporate this concept is through wallpaper. Schumacher sells an absolute classic.

3. Add pattern and interest to your table with this charger. A casual layer makes a formal tablescape more approachable.