At Forrest Glover Design, we believe that every piece of furniture should tell a story, and that story begins with exceptional materials. The woods we work with are not just structural components; they’re the soul of every design we create. Here in Guadalajara, we have access to some of Mexico’s finest woods—each one unique in its character, beauty, and durability. Among them all, Rosa Morada holds a special place in my heart, but more on that later.
Let’s dive into the incredible world of Mexican-sourced woods and the distinct qualities they bring to our designs.
Why Mexican Woods?
Mexican woods are a treasure trove of beauty and versatility. From the golden tones of parota to the elegant grains of tzalam, these woods are deeply tied to the country’s natural environment. They offer a rich aesthetic and unmatched durability, making them perfect for furniture that stands the test of time. Whether you lean toward modern minimalism, rustic charm, or artistic flair, there’s a Mexican wood that will elevate your space.
The Woods We Love and Use
1. Parota Wood (Enterolobium Cyclocarpum – Guanacaste)
Parota is a superstar when it comes to show-stopping furniture. With its golden honey tones, deep coffee hues, and mesmerizing grain patterns, this wood brings warmth and drama to any space. It’s particularly well-suited to large-format pieces, where its natural beauty can take center stage.
Best for: Dining tables, live-edge pieces, and bold statement furniture.
Why we love it: It’s highly resistant to humidity and moderately resistant to termites and fungi, making it a great choice for both indoor and outdoor use. Its irregular thread adds to its visual intrigue, though it does require expert craftsmanship to work with effectively.
2. Tzalam Wood (Lysiloma Bahamensis – Mexican Walnut)
If you love the look of American walnut but want something with a touch more character, Tzalam is the wood for you. Its heartwood is rich and lustrous, with soft reddish lines that create a striking contrast against its light sapwood.
Best for: Sleek outdoor furniture, cabinetry, and fine interior pieces.
Why we love it: Tzalam’s strength and durability make it perfect for high-use furniture, while its rectilinear grain ensures a clean and elegant finish. It’s a wood that exudes modern sophistication.
3. Red Oak (Quercus Alba – Encino Rojo)
Red Oak has all the timeless appeal you’d expect from oak, with the added vibrancy of soft reddish undertones. Its pronounced grain and woody rays make it a natural fit for both classic and contemporary styles.
Best for: Indoor and outdoor furniture, flooring, and cabinetry.
Why we love it: Its durability and low porosity make it practical and long-lasting, while its straight grain gives it a polished look that works beautifully in any setting.
4. Mexican Teak (Tectona Grandis LF – Teca Mexicana)
For outdoor furniture that combines luxury and resilience, Mexican Teak is hard to beat. Its rich brown tones, often interspersed with orange and off-white hues, bring depth and texture to any design.
Best for: Garden and terrace furniture, as well as outdoor finishes.
Why we love it: Its natural resistance to the elements ensures that it looks stunning year after year. Teak is as durable as it is beautiful—a perfect match for the outdoor lifestyle.
5. Rosa Morada (Tabebuia Rosea – Mexican Oak)
Now for my personal favorite: Rosa Morada. This wood has a quiet elegance that’s hard to describe but impossible to ignore. Its soft, coffee-au-lait heartwood with subtle pinkish undertones and feathery grain pattern makes it truly one-of-a-kind.
Best for: Decorative furniture, musical instruments, and accent pieces.
Why I love it: Rosa Morada captures everything I admire in a wood: warmth, softness, and a sense of refinement. It doesn’t shout for attention but instead draws you in with its understated beauty. Whether used for a delicate accent chair or a custom table, it’s a wood that elevates any design into something extraordinary.
Why Work with Forrest Glover Design?
Choosing the right wood for your furniture is about more than just aesthetics; it’s about creating a piece that fits your lifestyle, your space, and your vision. At Forrest Glover Design, we pride ourselves on working with Mexico’s finest woods to craft furniture that is as functional as it is beautiful. Our partnerships with local artisans ensure that each piece is made with care, precision, and a deep respect for the material.
Whether you’re drawn to the bold drama of parota or the soft sophistication of Rosa Morada, we’ll guide you through the process of selecting the perfect wood for your custom design. From dining tables to bedroom sets, each piece is thoughtfully crafted to tell a story—and to last for generations.
Let’s Bring Your Vision to Life
At Forrest Glover Design, we’re not just crafting furniture; we’re creating heirlooms. The woods we use are a celebration of Mexico’s natural beauty and artisanal heritage, and they’re waiting to become part of your story.
Ready to start? Let’s talk about how we can design something extraordinary for your space. And if you’re not sure where to start, I’ll always suggest Rosa Morada—it’s a personal favorite for a reason.
Warm regards,
Forrest Glover Design
