When it comes to creating standout commercial interiors, real wood adds warmth, texture and luxury. But specifying solid wood for large-scale projects can be cost-prohibitive – and, in many cases, unnecessary.
This is where wood veneers come into their own. Veneered wood panels offer the beauty and authenticity of solid wood, but with greater design flexibility, better sustainability credentials, and significantly lower cost.
For fit-out contractors and commercial joiners working on projects like hotels, theatres, and corporate spaces, veneers are the smart, sustainable choice.
Veneer vs Solid Wood: A Practical Alternative
Solid wood has its place, but when budgets, timeframes and environmental impact come into play, wood veneers often come out on top.
Veneered wood panels use a thin layer of real wood bonded to a core board – typically MDF, plywood or particleboard – to deliver a premium look without the cost and limitations of solid timber.
Unlike solid wood, veneers are less prone to warping and splitting, and they are much more material-efficient. They allow large volumes of panels to be produced with consistent grain, tone and texture – ideal for projects that demand visual harmony across multiple spaces.
You can explore the practical and environmental comparisons in more detail in our dedicated guides:
👉 Why wood veneers are more sustainable than solid wood
👉 Solid wood versus wood veneers – which comes out on top?
Exotic Looks, Made Affordable
One of the biggest advantages of wood veneers is the ability to specify high-end, exotic species without a high-end price tag. Whether you want the rich tone of Zebrano, the drama of Macassar ebony, or the elegance of figured maple, veneers make it possible to achieve the look – even across larger surface areas.
These striking species are often used in commercial interiors to create feature walls, eye-catching receptions, or statement boardroom tables. You can browse some of the most popular options in our wood veneers: spotlight on species post.
Perfect for Commercial Settings
We regularly work with clients in the hospitality, retail, office and leisure sectors, producing veneered panels and doors for everything from boutique hotels and theatres to apartment lobbies and workplace interiors.
Veneers are ideal for these environments, combining durability with design versatility. They can be matched across multiple panels, curved or shaped, and finished to suit any setting.
You can find more examples of how they are used commercially in our guide:
👉 How wood veneers can be used in a commercial setting
Ticking the ESG Box
Sustainability is increasingly a consideration in commercial design – and rightly so. Because veneers use far less wood than solid timber, they are a more responsible way to bring natural materials into your project.
When sourced responsibly, they can help support your company’s ESG goals, particularly around sustainable procurement.
At Read Veneers, we are FSC® certified (FSC® C109654) and committed to promoting responsible forest management.
You can read more about how wood veneers support the environmental side of ESG here:
👉 How wood veneers can support the ‘E’ in your ESG policy
Ready to Get the Look?
If you are planning a commercial fit-out and want a cost-effective, high-spec finish, veneered panels could be the perfect solution. We produce hundreds of panels a week for trade clients across the south east and beyond – with fast lead times, reliable quality, and expert advice from day one.
📞 Call us on 01277 811 771 or request a quote.
