In 2026, the demand for veneered interiors continues to rise as architects, interior designers and fit-out firms seek high-impact finishes that combine sustainability, craftsmanship, and bespoke design.
Whether it’s for luxury residential interiors or contemporary commercial refurbishments, veneered doors and furniture offer the perfect balance of practicality and aesthetics.
At Read Veneers, we’ve seen first-hand how design priorities are shifting – and the types of veneers our clients are requesting say a lot about where the market is heading. Here’s what’s trending in 2026.
Starburst Veneers: Statement-Making and Bespoke
Nothing says ‘wow factor’ like a starburst veneer. These intricate, radial designs are growing in popularity – especially in reception areas, media rooms, and high-end residential spaces.
We recently worked on a set of starburst veneer tables and doors plus a stunning media wall, where raw layups were transformed into bold, geometric focal points. The symmetrical lines and rich tones brought elegance and movement to the pieces – a perfect example of craftsmanship meeting design.
Trend tip: Starburst veneers work best with species like walnut or maple and are often used as a centrepiece in otherwise minimalist schemes.
Book-Matched and Geometric Panels
Book-matching remains a favourite technique for adding depth and balance to veneered doors. We’re seeing a rise in more structured layouts too – such as parquetry-style inlays, bordered designs, and even mid-century-inspired patterns.
One standout example was a walnut veneer panel we created with crisp lines and contrasting borders. It was subtle but packed with detail, and it shows how even simple shapes can be elevated with the right veneer selection and layout.
Trend tip: Book-matched and inlaid designs are increasingly being used in executive offices and client-facing spaces where finish and form really matter.
Paint-Grade Veneered Doors – Still Going Strong
In fact, paint-grade veneered doors are among our most requested products – especially for commercial schemes where a consistent, colour-matched finish is key.
By using high-quality veneers as the base, clients benefit from strong, smooth doors that are structurally sound and ready for a flawless paint finish. We recently completed a large batch of these, cut, lipped, pressed and hinged in-house for full control over quality.
Trend tip: Ideal for use in schools, offices and healthcare environments where durability and a clean finish are essential.
Dyed and Colour-Enhanced Veneers
While classic wood tones remain popular, we’re seeing more adventurous choices too – such as dyed blue veneers, used to create vibrant furniture and standout feature doors.
This style works well in modern interiors where a pop of colour can lift the overall aesthetic. It’s also a smart choice for high-end retail or hospitality schemes where brand colours may influence the finish.
Trend tip: Dyed veneers need careful handling to preserve the vibrancy of colour – something we’re well set up for thanks to our in-house press and cutting expertise.
Fumed and Smoked Finishes
Fumed oak, with its deep, smoky tones and aged look, is another veneer style gaining ground. Treated in a sealed chamber using ammonia vapour, fumed oak reacts with the wood’s tannins, creating a natural darkening effect that enhances the grain.
It’s a popular choice for contemporary kitchens, bespoke cabinetry and commercial interiors where warmth and texture are desired without the high gloss of modern laminates.
Trend tip: Fumed oak pairs beautifully with matte black fixtures or brass detailing for a luxurious, heritage-meets-modern feel.
Veneered Interiors: The Choice for 2026 and Beyond
What links all these trends is the demand for precision, personality and craftsmanship. Veneered doors are no longer an afterthought – they’re part of the design language of a space. And with natural veneers offering both beauty and sustainability, it’s no surprise they remain a top choice.
At Read Veneers, we work closely with designers, joiners and contractors to deliver high-spec doors and panels – whether it’s a one-off statement piece or a full batch for a commercial scheme. From starburst walnut to sleek paint-grade boards, every project is handled in-house for quality, consistency, and a flawless finish.
If you’ve got a project in the pipeline, we’d love to hear from you.
👉 Get in touch to discuss your veneering requirements.
