About Peroba

The wood used for our furniture comes from "old growth" forests. These forests have reached the final stage of ecological succession. Brazil was logged extensively in late 1800 and early 1900's. The best wood was used to construct houses and buildings, plus a great deal was sent to Europe while Brazil was a colony. Trees like these are known to produce superior, high quality lumber.

The Peroba Rosa (Aspidosperma polyneuron) we use for our furniture comes from old houses in the South of Brazil. These houses were built with the superior woods from the original Atlantic Rainforest. Only 7% of this smaller and lesser known type of rainforest still exists today. This wood is salvaged from the old houses and buildings being taken down in the name of progress.

Old growth trees are typically straight, the wood dense, and the yield high. It is less likely to shrink, twist, warp or give off moisture than recently cut wood. This wood is very dense, strong, and has a higher ring count per inch than 2nd growth wood. The rich grains, varying colors, few knots, and clarity make it a choice for many high end wood projects like ours. Resistant to termites, rot and very strong, it is easy to understand why colonists used this tree to build their homes.

We reclaim this ancient wood because it allows us to work and "live green" in ways that diminish man's impact on the environment. It is said that reclaiming one million board feet of lumber preserves one thousand acres of old growth forest. These trees were hundreds of years old when harvested and so this means that premium quality Peroba like this will never be available again. It is illegal to cut old growth Peroba. Before any can be exported, each piece is inspected and certified by IBAMA, the Brazilian equivalent to our Department of National Resources.

Last of all, this wood has a long history. Every piece has stood the test of weather and time. Nail holes, paint, and scuffs are left intact. The rich history of Southern Brazil is a tale worth telling. Buying reclaimed wood is one of the only options for individuals who have a "green concept" and wish to use old growth wood in their home. Protecting these old growth forests by reusing this wood is one way environmentally responsible folks can play a part in keeping our planet green. If you are looking for furniture or accessories that your neighbor won't have, this is it! Brightly painted, sturdy and uniquely beautiful, one of a kind item's that keep Brazil's history alive.