The History and Characteristics of Teak Wood

Teak wood has long been revered for its remarkable qualities, making it a highly sought-after material for many uses, especially in furniture making. From its rich historical roots to its stunning physical characteristics, teak furniture continues to be a popular choice among homeowners.
In this blog, we’ll explore the history of teak wood, its unique properties, and our commitment to sustainability at Luxus Home & Garden.
What is the History of Teak Wood?
Teak wood, scientifically known as Tectona grandis, has its origins in the tropical forests of Southeast Asia, particularly in countries like India, Myanmar, Thailand, and Indonesia. Its use dates back thousands of years, with ancient civilizations harnessing its beauty and durability for shipbuilding and construction. The robust nature of teak made it the perfect material for naval fleets, including the British Royal Navy, as it could easily withstand harsh marine environments.
Over time, teak wood became synonymous with quality and elegance, finding its way into luxury furniture production. In the 20th century, the demand for teak furniture surged, especially in Europe and North America. This was because homeowners began increasingly seeking high-quality pieces that combined functionality with aesthetic appeal.
Today, teak wood is recognised globally for its exceptional qualities and continues to be a popular choice today for crafting quality teak garden furniture sets that stand the test of time.
What are the Characteristics of Teak Wood?
Teak wood is renowned for its unique characteristics that make it ideal for creating teak furniture. Some of its defining features include:
Durability:
Teak is one of the most durable hardwoods available, resistant to rot, decay, and insects, making it an excellent choice for outdoor furniture. This natural resilience ensures that your teak table and chairs, teak garden bench, or other type of teak furniture, will last for decades, even in challenging weather conditions.
Aesthetic appeal:
Teak wood boasts a rich golden-brown hue that deepens with age, adding charm, warmth, and sophistication to any space. Its straight grain and smooth texture make it a favourite among interior designers for creating stunning furniture pieces.
Natural oils:
The natural oils found in teak wood make it inherently resistant to moisture, and therefore resistant to warping and cracking. This is especially beneficial for teak for outdoor furniture, allowing it to maintain its beauty and functionality all year round.
Low maintenance:
Teak furniture requires minimal upkeep compared to other woods. Regular cleaning and occasional oiling can help maintain its colour and sheen, but it can also be left untreated to develop a natural patina over time.

Our Commitment to Sustainability
Here at Luxus Home & Garden, we are deeply committed to sustainable practices when it comes to the production and sourcing of teak wood. While it is a sought-after material, it has faced some significant challenges in the past due to unsustainable logging practices. That’s why we’re dedicated to offering sustainably sourced teak that helps to protect not only the forests, but also the communities that rely on them for their livelihoods.
All teak wood used in our furniture is FLEGT licensed, meaning it has been harvested, processed, and exported in compliance with national laws. Indonesia is the first exporting country to mandate such regulations, requiring timber to meet specific legal standards.
The FLEGT license is a key measure in combating illegal logging and ensuring only sustainably sourced timber enters the market. We also hold SVLK certification, allowing our furniture to be sold globally with confidence.

Choose Timeless Elegance with Teak Wood
The rich history of teak wood and its remarkable characteristics make it a timeless choice for furniture and outdoor living spaces. From its ancient origins in Southeast Asia to its current status as a preferred material for teak furniture, teak wood continues to impress homeowners and designers alike. With its durability, beauty, and low maintenance requirements, teak is ideal for crafting stunning pieces that elevate any space.
At Luxus Home & Garden, we take pride in our commitment to sustainability and quality. Explore our entire collection online and discover how you can create your very own outdoor oasis!
Get in touch with our team to learn more about our teak garden furniture and our sustainability practices.