French oak is highly durable and well-managed by French foresters, who’ve been growing them sustainably for over 350 years. These forests maintain a well-kept equilibrium, with a protection policy that ensures no more trees are taken than can sustainably be replaced.
French oak has a tighter grain than other oak species and is commonly favoured due to its high tannin level (a class of astringent used in tanning). These qualities allow it to stain well, absorbing more colour and producing a longer-lasting finish.
Benefiting from the perfect ground and climate, the trees of the Lorraine Forest, in the North East of France, are recognised for their quality and beauty, traits that are endowed in their fine, richly coloured grain. The floors manufactured from this timber represent a timeless, indisputable elegance, refinement and wealth.
Demand will always exceed supply for these French boards due to their reputation and slow growth to maturity. And that's just the way we like it — quality first, no matter how many centuries it takes.