When building our new home, we envisioned an alpine cabin aesthetic—warm, inviting, and seamlessly connected to nature. To achieve this, we carefully researched cladding options, prioritising quality, sustainability, and a toxin-free environment for our young family. Ultimately, we chose Earthen Panelling 83 x 12mm with Hermpac hidden tongue and groove fixings, finished with Foreverbreathe™ Interior Oil & Wax – Clear. The results have been exactly what we hoped for: a home that feels as healthy as it looks beautiful.

Why Earthen Panelling Stood Out

Our decision to go with Earthen Panelling was based on several key factors:

Aesthetics: The natural radiata pine profiles complemented the alpine design, delivering a warm and refined look. The precision manufacturing and seamless finish of the tongue and groove profiles provided the uninterrupted, sleek appearance we were after.

Sustainability: Locally sourced and manufactured in New Zealand, the timber aligns with our commitment to sustainability, including its CO₂ capture benefits.

Hidden Fixings: The Hermpac hidden clips system was a game changer, ensuring no visible nails or screws interrupted the clean lines of the panelling.

This choice not only met our functional needs but added a sense of craftsmanship and authenticity to the design.

A Healthier, Safer Finish for Our Family

For the finish, we chose Foreverbreathe™ Interior Oil & Wax – Clear, which was perfect for accentuating the natural beauty of the timber while aligning with our health-conscious values. With a young family, avoiding toxins was a top priority. The oil’s low-VOC, plant-based formula gave us peace of mind and delivered stunning results.

Natural Beauty: The clear coat enhanced the rich tones and fine grain of the timber, elevating the warmth of the walls without altering their natural charm.

Health & Safety: Knowing that the oil is free from harmful chemicals made it an easy choice, especially for spaces our children spend a lot of time in.

Durability: The blend of tree resins, plant oils, and beeswax provided a durable, long-lasting finish, perfect for a busy home environment.

Velvety Texture: The final result was a tactile, silken patina that’s as lovely to touch as it is to see.

Why It Was Worth the Effort

Building a new home is a journey filled with decisions, and we couldn’t be happier with how this choice has turned out. The combination of Earthen Panelling, the hidden fixings, and the Foreverbreathe™ Oil & Wax finish has created a space that feels timeless, healthy, and in harmony with our surroundings. For anyone seeking a sustainable, toxin-free, and beautiful solution for their new build, I can’t recommend this combination highly enough.

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