Wood Decor with Soul and Substance
At Walter Metal Art, we believe wood has a story, shaped by weather, age, and the landscape it came from. Our wood decor collection is built for people who value things that feel real. They are not mass produced or overly polished. Just well-made pieces that sit naturally in a space and hold a quiet presence.
Every sculpture starts in our Melbourne studio. We work by hand, letting the grain and weight of each timber guide the form. Some become wall pieces that anchor a room. Others are smaller sculptural works that live on shelves, sideboards or tables. But no matter where they end up, each piece is made with care and shaped to last.
How We Build Art From Wood
We do not try to change the wood too much. The grain, the colour, the weight of each piece already speaks. Our only role is to guide it into form.
We mostly work with reclaimed hardwoods and locally sourced Australian timbers. Every plank and block carries its own character. While some come with cracks or old nail holes, others have smooth clean lines. So, we work with both.
Because that very mix of history and design is what gives each sculpture its voice.
Rather than impose a shape, we let the wood tell us what it wants to become. One piece may become a tall sculptural form. Another may ask for a soft curve or a geometric edge. This approach means no two pieces are the same.
And that is the point.
We want our wood decor to feel like it was made for the space it lives in.
Where Our Wood Decor Works Best
In the Home
A piece of sculpted timber adds more than just beauty to a room. It adds a sense of calm and honesty. Whether it sits on a shelf, hangs on a gallery wall or rests quietly on a coffee table, wood has a way of softening a space without losing presence. It suits homes with natural tones, mid century charm or even clean minimal lines.
In the Garden
Timber and greenery always work well together. A hand-shaped wooden sculpture can sit among plants, beside a water feature or stand alone in a courtyard. Over time, the surface may weather slightly, but that is part of the appeal. It blends with its surroundings and feels like it was always meant to be there.
In Professional Spaces
Wood brings warmth into business environments. A bold sculptural form can add a sense of groundedness to an office lobby or waiting room. Wall-mounted decor works well in meeting areas or shared workspaces. It helps soften hard surfaces and makes the space feel more considered.
What Goes Into Every Decor Piece
We start with strong materials. Mostly reclaimed Australian hardwoods such as ironbark, spotted gum and blackwood. These are dense, richly coloured timbers that stand up to wear and change beautifully with time.
Each sculpture is shaped by hand. No two pieces are alike. Some have smooth curves. Others have sharper lines or geometric elements. The shape depends on the grain, the purpose and the space it is meant for.
We sand and finish each piece with natural oils or protective coatings, depending on where it will live. For indoor settings, we may keep the grain raw and earthy. For outdoor pieces, we apply weather-resistant finishes that hold up against moisture, sunlight and temperature shifts.
Even our wall decor is mounted with care. We make sure it is easy to install, safe to handle and balanced in weight. These are not fragile items. They are built to last and designed to live well.
Frequently asked questions
Can wood decor be used outdoors or just inside the home?
Many of our timber pieces are suitable for outdoor use. We treat them with finishes that resist moisture and help protect against sun damage. If you are placing it in a fully exposed spot, we will guide you on the right timber and sealant to suit your conditions.
How should I care for my wooden sculpture?
For indoor use, just dust it with a dry cloth now and then. For outdoor pieces, a light clean with warm water every few months is enough. If you want to keep the original colour over time, we can recommend an easy to apply oil or finish.
Can I choose the wood type and finish myself?
Yes. If you have a certain tone or grain in mind, we will show you what is available. Whether you want a darker aged timber or something lighter and more refined, we will work with you to find the right match.
What if I need a custom size or shape for a shelf, wall or niche?
We can absolutely create to size. If you have a specific spot in mind, just share the dimensions and feel you are after. We will shape a piece that fits neatly and looks like it was made to be there. Whether it is a long narrow shelf piece, a round wall disc or something more sculptural, we will make it work.