Skip to content
Made in France · Riorges workshop · Free quote within three working days
Sel d'Embrun Illusion métal sur bois
Call Free quote
Your questions about metal illusion on wood

Illusion métal sur bois · Riorges (Loire)

Your questions about metal illusion on wood

Weight, price, lead time, installation: Camille answers the questions you are most likely to ask before you even ask them. And if yours is not on the list, a free quote within three working days will give you the precise answer.

French craftsmanship since 2010 5 to 10x lighter than real metal Free quote within three working days M1 fire-resistance certification available

Good to know

What you deserve to know before placing an order.

The metal-on-wood illusion raises legitimate questions. How solid is painted wood in practice? Can a decorative beam really be fixed to a plasterboard ceiling with no extra support? Is it affordable? Below you will find Camille's honest answers. She is the founder of the Sel d'Embrun workshop in Riorges.

Close-up of metal-effect patina finish in the Sel d'Embrun workshop
Camille Marchand in her Riorges workshop, seated on a wooden metal-effect beam

Good to know

Frequently asked questions

What is the metal-on-wood illusion technique?

It is a handcrafted finish applied to solid wood, with no resin and no plastic, that hand-paints five real finishes, raw steel, corten rust, weathered zinc, patinated cast iron and oxidised bronze, to replicate the look of metal with striking accuracy. Every piece stays 5 to 10 times lighter than real metal and is fully customisable to your project.

How much does a custom piece cost?

Every project is unique, so we provide a free, personalised quote within three working days. Get in touch with your dimensions and inspirations.

Do you deliver across France?

Yes, we ship throughout France from our workshop in Riorges, Auvergne-Rhone-Alpes, in operation since 2010. Because each piece is solid wood, 5 to 10 times lighter than real metal, shipping stays straightforward, and costs are calculated based on the size and weight of each piece.

Does installation require any building work?

No. Our creations are solid wood, 5 to 10 times lighter than real metal, and mount just like any decorative panel or frame, including on plasterboard. For establishments open to the public, an M1 fire-resistance certification is available on request, with no extra structural work needed.

How long does production take?

On average 2 to 4 weeks after the quote is approved, depending on the complexity of the project and the finish chosen, from raw steel to oxidised bronze. We keep you informed at every stage.

They asked before you did

Spaces transformed by this technique.

Metal-effect signage and glass partition at Delirium Cafe, Dijon, by Sel d'Embrun
Delirium Cafe Dijon, Burgundy
Restaurant dining room with openwork Eiffel-style beams in a steel finish, Sel d'Embrun
La Traviata Grenoble, Isere
Wine cellar clad with a safe-door effect, metal on patinated wood, Sel d'Embrun
Luxury Chalets Megeve, Haute-Savoie
Riveted metal-effect bar counter, bespoke industrial decor by Sel d'Embrun

La Traviata, Grenoble

"The result is stunning. Our customers genuinely think the beams are real metal."

Your project

Your question is not on the list?

Tell Camille about your project and you will receive a personalised reply and a free quote within three working days.

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