Illusion métal sur bois · Riorges (Loire)
The craft behind the illusion.
Real metal is heavy, expensive, and hard to work with. Sel d'Embrun transforms solid wood into ultra-realistic steel, rust, zinc, or cast iron, lighter, durable, and indistinguishable from the real thing.
Describe my project (free quote)The exclusive technique
A realism that fools the eye, and the hand.
The exclusive Sel d'Embrun technique transforms raw wood into ultra-realistic metal: brushed steel, patinated rust, oxidised zinc, aged cast iron. No real metal is used. The result is a material that is light, durable, endlessly customisable, and indistinguishable from the original by sight or touch.
This approach meets the most demanding architectural constraints: controlled weight for period ceilings, M1 fire-resistance certification for public venues, and weatherproof formulations for outdoor spaces.
The transformation
Solid wood, the look of metal.
Every piece starts as solid wood shaped to the required profile, then receives hand-applied finishing coats that reproduce raw steel, corten rust or aged zinc. The result weighs a fraction of real metal, for an identical visual impact.
Piece by piece
A level of precision no machine can replicate.
Every piece is made by hand in the Sel d'Embrun workshop. The wood is prepared, treated, then worked layer by layer to achieve the desired effect. Patinas are composed specifically for each project, no two pieces are alike.
Materials are selected for their durability, their visual quality, and their compatibility with the constraints of each site. Every step is documented.
That is why our earliest installations, completed over ten years ago, have required no touch-ups. Craftsmanship in the truest sense: built to last.
Certifications and guarantees
Why architects and public venues trust our technique.
The illusion alone is not enough. Every creation meets concrete technical requirements. Here is why.
5 to 10 times lighter than metal
Ideal for period ceilings and plasterboard partitions, no structural reinforcement required.
M1 fire-resistance certification
M1 fire treatment built into the production process for public venues: restaurants, hotels, retail spaces. No visible impact on finish.
Outdoor durability
Special formulation for covered outdoor spaces, terraces, and sheltered facades.
Sustainable materials
Solid wood, natural pigments, low-VOC varnish. No resin, no plastic.
M1 fire-resistance certification is built into the production process for public venue projects. It is not an afterthought coating, it is part of the workflow from the moment you place your order.
The workshop in pictures
From timber board to finished installation: four steps, one standard.
From workshop to your space
One point of contact, from brief to turnkey delivery.
For large-scale projects, Camille handles installation and coordinates directly with other trades on site.
A full reference file is created for every project, documenting the characteristics and specifics of your piece. Because transparency is the only way to work with confidence.
"The result is breathtaking. Our guests genuinely believe the beams are real metal. La Traviata has taken on a whole new dimension." La Traviata, Grenoble
How it works
Four clear steps, zero surprises.
Free quote
Submit a brief online or book a 15-minute discovery call. You receive a personalised estimate within 72 hours.
40% deposit
Sign the order form and pay the deposit. Production begins as soon as payment is confirmed.
Handcrafted production
Every piece is made in the Sel d'Embrun workshop. A progress update is shared at the halfway point for your approval.
Delivery and installation
Delivered to your door with care instructions. On-site installation is available for large-scale projects.
They trusted us
Spaces their guests notice, and talk about.
Full fit-out: IPN beams, bar counter, signature furniture.
Oxidised metal-effect glass partitions, aged zinc doors, screen dividers.
Full public venue project with M1 fire-resistance certification.
Signature furniture and beams for high-end private properties.
The maker
Camille: 16 years turning wood into metal.
Every order passes through her hands personally. No subcontracting, no templates, no repetition.
After 16 years of practice and dozens of projects completed for demanding restaurants, hotels, and private clients, the Sel d'Embrun signature has been forged around three principles: uncompromising creativity, complete technical mastery, and treating every project as a unique piece of work.
Good to know
Questions about Sel d'Embrun craftsmanship
How long does production take?
Production time depends on the complexity and size of your project. Most pieces are ready within 2 to 4 weeks after the deposit is confirmed. You will receive a mid-production update to approve the direction before we finish.
Can the finish really fool the eye and the touch?
Yes. The Sel d'Embrun technique works layer by layer on solid wood, building up texture, colour depth, and surface irregularities that replicate brushed steel, oxidised zinc, aged rust, or cast iron. Clients and their guests consistently mistake the pieces for real metal.
Do you ship internationally?
Yes. Pieces are carefully packaged for transport and can be shipped across Europe and beyond. Installation is also available on request for major projects.
The signature
Shaped and patinated by hand in Riorges, since 2010.
Your project
Your project deserves this level of craft.
Describe your piece and receive a free personalised estimate within 72h. Camille reviews every enquiry personally.
No obligation to accept, the decision stays entirely yours. If a technical question comes up after the quote, you can come back to us at any time.
Request my free quote