The Beauty and Durability of Monkey Pod Wood Coffee Tables

The Beauty and Durability of Monkey Pod Wood

Monkey pod wood, also known as monkeypod, is a beautiful hardwood prized for its rich reddish-brown color and intricate grain patterns. This tropical wood is native to Hawaii and other islands in the Pacific and has long been used in Hawaiian culture for canoe building, calabashes, and bowls. Today, monkey pod remains a popular choice for high-end furniture pieces, especially dining tables, desks, and coffee tables.

What is Monkey Pod Wood?

Monkey pod comes from the monkey pod tree (Samanea saman), a tropical legume species related to acacia trees. It is commonly known by many other names including rain tree, saman tree, and cow tamarind. The monkey pod tree is very large and can reach heights of over 100 feet with an expansive canopy that provides ample shade. It thrives in tropical climates and is found across islands in the Pacific and Caribbean as well as coastal areas of Central and South America.

The wood is obtained from the trunk of mature monkey pod trees which can measure 6 feet or more in diameter. Once the tree is cut down, the log is then sawn and dried. As it dries, the wood's rich reddish-brown heartwood becomes apparent which contrasts beautifully with the lighter sapwood.

Appearance and Grain Patterns

One of the most striking features of monkey pod wood is its dramatic grain. It has a fine, straight grain yet the growth ring patterns are highly figured and irregular. This gives each piece a lot of visual interest and no two pieces have the same look.

The grain has swirling patches and streaks in shades of brown, amber, and red. There are also distinctive wavy stripe patterns. The overall look resembles a landscape with rolling lines and texture. The wood has an attractive natural luster but finishes well. When oiled or lacquered, the colors become deeper and richer.

Strength and Workability of Monkey Pod

In addition to its beauty, monkey pod is also prized for its strength, durability, and workability. It is a very dense, heavy wood with a Janka hardness rating of 1,820 lbf which makes it comparable to hard maple. This type of density lends itself well for hard-wearing pieces like dining tables that need to withstand daily use.

Despite its density, monkey pod is relatively easy to work with using both hand and power tools. It sands smoothly and takes finishes beautifully. The wood also has minimal shrinkage and movement which helps finished pieces hold up well over time. These qualities make monkey pod an ideal choice for crafting detailed pieces with more intricate joinery and carvings.

Monkey Pod for Coffee Tables

Coffee tables are one of the most popular uses for monkey pod wood today. Its beautiful grain patterns and colors make it a natural focal point in living rooms and family rooms. The wood's durability also makes it well-suited for a surface that sees frequent use.

Design Styles

Monkey pod coffee tables are available in a range of design styles. Some highlight the wood's natural beauty in simple, clean-lined table tops with minimal joinery. The flowing organic shapes of the grain stand out as the main feature. Other tables incorporate morejoinery details like faux dovetail corners or delicate inlays.

More rustic styles use thick monkey pod slabs with live edges showcasing the wood's raw, natural form. The slabs are often combined with blackened metal bases in an industrial style. Still other tables feature turned legs or decorative carvings inspired by traditional Hawaiian motifs.

Sizes and Shapes

Monkey pod coffee tables come in a variety of shapes and sizes to complement any space. Smaller square cocktail tables provide a spot for drinks and snacks in smaller sitting areas or next to couches. Larger rectangular coffee tables can anchor furniture groupings in open concept living spaces.

Round monkey pod coffee tables with curved edges soften the look in more relaxed, casual rooms. Oval or elliptical shapes also provide a nice change from standard rectangular tables. There are even monkey pod tables with kidney shaped tops or carved out storage shelves under the surface.

Finishes and Maintenance

Most monkey pod tables are finished with clear oils or lacquers to protect the wood while allowing its color and grain to show through. Matte finishes help to minimize blotchy appearance on this porous wood. Prior to finishing, it's important the wood is properly dried and sanded for the best results.

For regular cleaning, monkey pod needs little more than wiping with a soft damp cloth to remove dust and spills. It is best to avoid harsh cleaners or abrasive pads that may scratch the finish. Every so often, reapplying a fresh coat of oil helps maintain the wood's protective barrier and keeps it looking its best.

Finding the Perfect Monkey Pod Coffee Table

When shopping for a monkey pod coffee table, carefully inspect the wood's grain patterns, color consistency, and finish quality. Lower grade woods may have knots, cracks, sapwood, or grayish tones that detract from the appearance.

Higher quality monkey pod showcases the distinctive flowing grain and warm reddish hues this wood is known for. The finish should be smooth and consistent without blotchiness or uneven spots. Check that any joinery fits tightly without gaps or glue marks.

It's also wise to ask about the source of the monkey pod wood. Reputable furniture makers will use legally and sustainably harvested woods. Shopping for locally-made tables in Hawaii helps support smaller artisans in the state.

While monkey pod does come at a premium price, its singular beauty creates a real focal point in any space. For those seeking a statement coffee table with gorgeous natural wood grain, monkey pod is a wise investment that will last for years to come with proper care.

FAQs

What are the main characteristics of monkey pod wood?

Monkey pod is known for its dramatic grain patterns, rich reddish-brown color, durability, and strength. It has a Janka hardness rating comparable to hard maple. The wood also has minimal shrinkage and finishing properties that allow it to take oil or lacquer beautifully.

Where does monkey pod wood come from?

Monkey pod comes from the monkey pod tree which is native to Hawaii and other tropical islands in the Pacific and Caribbean. It thrives along coasts and is abundant across Polynesia. The trees can grow over 100 feet tall.

Why is monkey pod a good choice for coffee tables?

The beautiful grain and coloration make monkey pod an excellent coffee table wood. It creates a striking focal point in a room. Monkey pod is also very dense and durable, so it stands up well to everyday use and wear and tear.

What are some popular monkey pod coffee table designs?

Monkey pod tables are available in styles ranging from simple, clean-lined tops showcasing the flowing grain to more ornate carved pieces. Live-edge slab tables and tables with black metal bases are also popular. Shapes include round, oval, rectangular, and kidney-shaped.

How do you care for and maintain a monkey pod coffee table?

Monkey pod needs minimal maintenance beyond regular dusting. Occasionally reapplying oil will maintain the protective wood finish. Avoid harsh cleaners or abrasives. Check for quality construction and finishes when purchasing for durability.