Recycled Rimu Countertop with Epoxy Finish

Look across this countertop and the boards do not all behave the same way. Some sections are darker, some carry tighter grain, and others catch the light more strongly. That variation is exactly what gives recycled Rimu its presence.

For this custom countertop, an epoxy resin finish creates a continuous reflective surface while leaving the individual timber boards easy to read.

Why board variation matters

Recycled timber often arrives with a visual history rather than a uniform appearance. The design challenge is to arrange those differences so the finished top feels deliberate. In the gallery, warm and dark boards run together lengthwise, creating movement without breaking the rectangular form.

The straight edges keep the piece practical. All the character sits within a clean outline, making the countertop easier to integrate with cabinetry or a purpose-built base.

The epoxy finishing stage

A resin finish changes the way light moves across timber. Several workshop views show strong reflections on the surface, making the depth and colour shifts more obvious. The coating also brings the separate boards together visually as one top.

Good preparation is important because the glossy result exposes the surface rather than disguising it. The long views help show how evenness, edges and the full board layout read once the finish is applied.

Planning a recycled timber countertop

For a custom benchtop, start with the intended use, approximate dimensions and any required cut-outs or support points. It is also worth deciding how much variation you like. Recycled Rimu can be selected and arranged for a calmer appearance or for a more obviously mixed-board character.

View the full workshop sequence in the Recycled Rimu Countertop gallery.

If you are planning a custom timber countertop in Auckland, send your measurements, room photographs and finish preferences through the INWOOD Furniture contact form.