Kitchen design is becoming more about being unique and feeling in touch with nature, so reclaimed materials suit this perfectly. One such natural material is iroko wood, which continues to be a popular choice because of its versatility to complement a wide range of tastes. It suits country, rustic, and industrial kitchens, adds a fresh take to Shaker style, and warmth to modern aesthetics. It has rich tones and a distinctive grain, which can also create a luxurious vibe. This reclaimed tropical hardwood is made to stand the test of time with added benefits of durability, stain and moisture resistance that make it a great sustainable choice for kitchens. 

Iroko is often reclaimed for reuse from schools or universities, often from desks, science laboratories, warehouses or museums. Salvaged wood brings with it a past life full of character. However, if you prefer a smooth, unblemished look, it can be sanded smooth and oiled to suit your chosen finish. 

Iroko can be sourced in different shapes and sizes, giving flexibility in design. For example, iroko worktops can easily create the 'invisible sink' trend or even a curved worktop, with the help of a skilled carpenter. It can be used to create kitchen cupboards, open shelves, larders, or even serve as wall cladding or flooring. Iroko looks good when mixed with other woods, such as pine, and natural materials like reclaimed marble, stone, terracotta tile, metal, or brick. 

From Lab Bench to Kitchen Counter in Retrouvius designed kitchen © Retrouvius

Salvo Code member, Retrouvius, a London-based, reclamation and design studio, in a blog post said, 'Reclaimed iroko worktops have become synonymous with our design studio's aesthetic and the most popular material available in our London shop.' Read more about iroko, from a recent Retrouvius news post, 'School's Out - Iroko's In. Why this wood deserves a place at home.'

Golden or deep brown iroko works with kitchen cupboards or appliances in darker colours of blue, green, brown and of course black. However, iroko wood can also contrast well with softer, natural paint tones, such as grey, almond, or even pink.

Today's kitchens multitask more than ever, and natural materials make a functional room you can also relax in. 

Truly Reclaimed® iroko worktops currently for sale in the Salvo Shop see here

Search for reclaimed iroko wood for sale on SalvoWEB the marketplace dedicated to architectural salvage and reclaimed building materials. When browsing, look for the crane logo, which indicates a Salvo Code dealer committed to adhering to a code of good practice that ensures fair, transparent, and trustworthy trading.

Look out too for the Truly Reclaimed® label, which verifies that wood and other reclaimed materials are genuinely reclaimed, antique or salvaged, rather than new materials made to look old. The reclaimed standard provides renovators with the satisfaction of knowing they have made a difference and positively impacted the environment by supporting real reuse.