Some interiors make us feel at home the moment we step inside. We look around, take in the space, and something inside us says, “Yes, I could live here.” Sometimes, it’s the layout, the lighting, or the décor. But often, it’s something even more fundamental – the materials surrounding us. Brick and wood. Two elements that have accompanied humans for centuries and continue to hold their appeal. In a world full of plastics and smooth, synthetic surfaces, they offer something we subconsciously crave: authenticity, durability, and a connection to nature. But where does this need come from? Why do we choose brick and wood when we have dozens of modern, “better” alternatives? Perhaps precisely because they are real.
Brick – Raw Yet Full of Character
Brick has something no other material can replicate. It isn’t smooth, and it isn’t perfect—each piece has its own unique texture and pattern. Brick is a material that tells a story—sometimes literally, when we uncover an old brick wall in a historic building. But even new brick carries a sense of rawness and character that smooth plaster or wallpaper lacks. No wonder exposed brick walls dominate loft, industrial, and Scandinavian-style interiors. Brick influences us on multiple levels:
- It gives a sense of stability. It’s not a delicate surface that scratches easily. Brick is solid, durable—something that lasts. This kind of permanence becomes valuable in a world where everything feels temporary.
- It adds character. Plain walls can feel dull and impersonal. On the other hand, brick catches the eye, making a space feel unique and full of personality.
- It brings warmth, even though it’s rough. A paradox? Maybe. But look at a warmly lit, reddish brick wall—it instantly feels inviting. Paired with wood, it creates an interior that envelops rather than overwhelms.
Wood – A Touch of Nature We Miss
And speaking of warmth—wood is the king of cosiness. There’s a reason wooden houses evoke a sense of safety and comfort and why so many dream of wooden floors. Wood has something irreplaceable. It’s pleasant, carries a natural scent, and ages beautifully. With each passing year, it gains even more character than loses appeal. Interiors featuring wood have a calming effect on us. Maybe our brains subconsciously associate this material with nature. Wood has surrounded us for centuries—in homes, furniture, tools, and flooring. Modern interiors often replace natural materials with synthetics, but our longing for wood remains.
Wood has its unique properties:
- It makes a space feel warm. Unlike tiles or metal, wood is warm to the touch, so we love it for flooring, furniture, and decorative elements.
- It’s incredibly versatile. It suits every style—from classic to minimalist modern. The right colour, grain, and finish make all the difference.
- It connects us to nature. In a world dominated by concrete and plastic, wood reminds us of forests, fresh air, and tranquillity—something we all need more.
Why Is This So Important to Us?
Brick and wood aren’t just about aesthetics. They fulfil a more profound need—the need to be surrounded by something durable, tangible, and accurate. Modern interiors are often filled with materials that look sleek but feel cold, artificial, and lifeless. Brick and wood are the opposite—they have texture, depth, and a sense of history. They evolve over time, gaining more personality rather than fading into the background. That may be why we keep bringing them into our homes. In a world that changes at breakneck speed, we need something constant. A space that feels good engages our senses and helps us slow down. And if we add the smell of freshly brewed coffee and a soft blanket draped over a wooden armchair, that’s the interior you never want to leave.
Written by Kamila Krzyzaniak
Images Shutterstock AI
