Trend: Raw Edges

Natural crystals and live-edge wood tables (edges are left un-milled, sometimes the bark is even left on) bring new life to interiors. Nature’s energetic, unbridled forms shake up the polished perfection of hyper-sophisticated, urban pied-à-terres, or cohabit comfortably in rustic cabins.

Mineral lamps are a new breed of rock star. This crystal version by Brenda Houston steers clear of New-Age territory with an acrylic finial and base, and a crisp rectangular shade.

Dark and dramatic, this lamp — also from Brenda Houston — would glisten like an uncut gem on the desk of a den or home office.

It’s easy to lose yourself in the complex map of veining in this lamp by Jan Showers.

Slabs of selenite (a milky mineral) have popped up on side tables in Courtney Cox’s Malibu bedroom. Industrial-style metal bases accent the rough-hewn, substantial top. The striated layers are a strong design trend.

Live-edge tables are enjoying a renaissance — see our October 2012 cover for a front and centre example. This vintage table is by legendary mid-century American craftsman George Nakashima, whose signature was joining large wood slabs together with butterfly joints.

Nakashima appreciated the natural irregularity of the burl, occasionally picking slabs of wood that others rejected as too flawed.

For a new twist, Canadian company MTH Woodworks highlights the beauty of natural wood grain by casting salvaged Western red cedar stumps in resin to create one-of-a-kind tables.

Watch a video of MTH Woodworks’ process here.

Photo credits:
1. Brenda Houston Sharon lamp, HD Inspirations
2. Brenda Houston Angelina lamp, TheCoolist
3. Jan Showers Honeycomb lamp, Decur 8
4. Crystalline Phoenix
5. George Nakashima
6. 1stdibs.com
7. Bloom Dining Table, MTH Woodworks