in the greek island of lesvos, koukos de lab turns olive pits into durable furniture

Olive trees, historically significant and native to the Mediterranean, are gaining recognition in interior design for their unique aesthetic qualities. Their gnarled trunks, silvery leaves, and small green fruits contribute to an "Old World" charm that designers are increasingly embracing. These trees are hardy in USDA zones 8-11, and in zone 7 with proper wind protection. For colder climates, they can be brought indoors during winter. Given optimal conditions, olive trees can grow over 30 feet tall, with fast growth rates and abundant fruit production when planted outdoors. Key to their cultivation are avoiding overwatering, carefully pruning internal branches to ensure ample light exposure, and upsizing their pots after the initial year of growth. Dwarf varieties are particularly suitable for indoor settings, thriving in pots or baskets when provided with adequate light and sunshine. The wood derived from olive trees is highly sought after due to its distinctive characteristics, specifically its smooth density and captivating grain patterns. This makes olive wood a popular material for furniture and decorative accessories. Mike Harrison, a New York City interior designer and artist, notes the sculptural quality of olive wood, highlighting how even a simple bowl can transform into an elegant art piece. Olive wood serveware is particularly prized; for instance, a platter crafted from olive wood, adorned with charcuterie, cheese, and fruit, becomes a focal point of culinary artistry. Similarly, a well-crafted wooden spoon, showcasing the wood's natural grain and curves, is celebrated for its tactile and aesthetic appeal. Beyond the wood itself, the diverse range of olive hues offers significant versatility in interior decorating. Olive tones have been a prominent color choice in recent seasons, particularly within the midcentury modern design movement. These hues complement a variety of other rich colors, including chocolate, orange, raspberry, cream, and mustard. Sue Wadden, color marketing director for Sherwin-Williams, emphasizes the timelessness of olive tones and green's overall importance in contemporary color trends. Sherwin-Williams' "Restless Olive" is described as a vibrant and impactful shade, while Benjamin Moore's "Tate Olive" from its Historic palette provides a refined intensity. For a more subdued option, "Spanish Olive" by Benjamin Moore offers a neutral rendition of the hue. Stephanie Pierce of Masterbrand Cabinets points out that olive colors pair effectively with various wood types and with mid- to light-toned wood stains, enhancing their organic depth. These colors are recommended for family rooms, bedrooms, and kitchens to create a warm and inviting atmosphere. Wadden suggests combining olive green tones with dusty pinks and navy blue. She also notes the positive association people have with olive tones in the kitchen, given its status as a quintessential food color, making it an excellent choice for cabinets and furniture. The personal preference for a deep olive green bedroom underscores its appeal. Additional decorative elements can incorporate olive themes, such as vintage Turkish olive-gathering buckets made of galvanized metal, available at stores like Pottery Barn. These buckets, with their symmetrical vents, evoke a rustic "cottage-y" aesthetic and can be used to hold herb plants or fragrant soaps. Furthermore, olive oil, renowned for its culinary uses, also finds application in home care. Martha Stewart's website suggests using olive oil as a natural furniture polish. A mixture of olive oil and vinegar can serve as a cleaner. Applying a small amount of olive oil to a clean rag can restore shine and protect stainless steel and brass items from tarnishing, showcasing the multifaceted utility of olive products in home decoration and maintenance. #HomeDecor #OliveWood #InteriorDesign #ColorTrends #HomeAccessories #GardeningTips #NaturalMaterials #HomeMaintenance