The Different Types Of Wood Used In Luxury Wardrobe Construction (2024)

From durability to aesthetic appeal, the different types of wood used in luxury wardrobe construction can have a significant impact on the overall quality of your wardrobe.

With such a diverse range of wood available in the market, it can be challenging to choose the best one.

Whether you're a homeowner looking to purchase a stunning wardrobe for your personal use or a professional designer searching for high-quality materials for your next project, this guide will provide you with valuable insights to help you make an informed decision.

1. Hardwoods: the most common types of wood used in luxury wardrobe construction

When it comes to constructing luxury wardrobes, hardwoods are some of the most commonly used types of wood due to their durability, strength, and visual appeal. They are derived from deciduous trees and are known for their dense and robust nature, making them ideal for high-end furniture construction.

One of the most popular hardwoods used in luxury wardrobes is oak, a durable and sturdy wood that offers a classic and timeless look. Its straight grain and consistent colouring make it a popular choice for those seeking a traditional and elegant aesthetic.

Walnut is another favourite among homeowners and is known for its rich, warm tone and striking grain pattern that adds depth and dimension to any wardrobe design.

Other options to consider include maple, cherry, and mahogany, all of which offer unique characteristics that can enhance the appearance of a wardrobe. Maple is known for its durability and resistance to wear, making it an excellent choice for wardrobes that will see frequent use.

Cherry, on the other hand, boasts a warm and inviting colour that deepens over time and is perfect for a more traditional or formal wardrobe design.

Finally, depending on your home’s aesthetic, you may prefer mahogany which is a reddish-brown hardwood with a fine texture that adds a touch of luxury and sophistication to any wardrobe.

2. Softwoods: the types of wood that are less commonly used in luxury wardrobe construction

Unlike hardwoods, softwoods are derived from coniferous trees and are typically less dense and less durable. While they are not as commonly used in luxury wardrobe construction, some softwoods can still provide a beautiful and functional option.

One type of softwood that is occasionally used in luxury wardrobe construction is pine. Pine is a light-coloured wood with a relatively straight grain and is often chosen for its affordability and accessibility. However, it is important to note that pine is relatively soft and is prone to dents and scratches, which can impact its durability over time.

You could also opt for cedar. Cedar has a unique natural scent and is often used for its insect-repelling properties. It also has a beautiful, warm colour and a distinctive grain pattern. While cedar may not be as durable as hardwoods, its natural properties make it a popular choice for wardrobe interiors or specialised storage areas such as shoe racks.

Other softwoods that will work well are:

• Spruce: light-coloured, known for its strength and stability, and a popular choice for building frameworks and structural supports.
• Douglas fir: has a warm, reddish-brown colour and a distinctive grain pattern.
• Redwood: naturally resistant to decay and insect damage, has distinctive reddish colour and straight grain.
• Hemlock: known for its light colour and fine, even grain, often used for cabinetry and furniture projects.

3. Exotic woods: the types of wood that are imported from different regions for luxury wardrobe construction

If you've ever laid eyes on a stunning wooden wardrobe and found yourself wondering about its material composition, you're not alone. Our team of wardrobe experts have been fortunate enough to work with some of the most exquisite, lesser-known woods available. We've consulted with them to bring you a list of their personal favourites, which you can consider for your wardrobe design.

• Ebony Macassar - Southeast Asia, luxurious, dark hardwood with a distinctive grain pattern.
• Padauk - West and Central Africa, bright, reddish-orange hardwood with a striking grain pattern.
• Purpleheart - Central and South America, dense hardwood with a rich purple colour that deepens over time, often used in modern and contemporary wardrobe designs.
• Bocote - Mexico and Central America, medium-density hardwood with a unique, wavy grain pattern and a warm, golden-brown colour.
• Olivewood - the Mediterranean region, hardwood with a warm, golden-brown colour and a distinctive, swirled grain pattern that adds visual interest to any wardrobe.
• Rosewood - Brazil, India, and Africa, deep reddish-brown hardwood with a fine, straight grain.
• Ebony - Africa, is a dark, dense hardwood with a fine texture and striking grain pattern.
• Mahogany - South and Central America, reddish-brown hardwood with a fine texture that adds a touch of luxury and sophistication to any wardrobe.
• Zebrawood - West Africa, hardwood with a distinctive striped grain pattern that adds visual interest to any wardrobe design.
• Wenge - West Africa, dark, rich hardwood with a striking grain pattern that is popular in modern and contemporary wardrobe designs.
• Bubinga - Central and West Africa, reddish-brown hardwood with a fine, straight grain and is prized for its beauty and durability.

4. Sustainable woods: the types of wood that are grown and harvested responsibly for luxury wardrobe construction

Sustainable wood refers to wood that is harvested and sourced in a responsible and environmentally friendly manner, with a focus on preserving natural resources and promoting sustainable forestry practices. At FCI, we encourage our customers to discuss sustainable options for materials and designs with our designers who are keen to share their knowledge on the topic.

Over the years we have seen the benefits of using sustainable wood in luxury wardrobe design, such as reducing the negative impact on the environment, promoting fair labour practices, supporting communities, preserving natural resources for future generations, and providing high-quality and durable materials.

Some of the most common sustainable woods in construction include:

Bamboo

A highly sustainable and fast-growing grass that is harvested without harming the plant. It is a versatile material that can be used for wardrobe frames, shelving, and doors.

FSC-certified hardwoods

Hardwoods such as cherry, maple, and oak are certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC), an organisation that promotes responsible forestry practices and certification for wood products.

Lyptus

A hybrid of two eucalyptus species that grow quickly and sustainably, providing a highly renewable source of wood for luxury wardrobe construction.

Acacia

A hardwood that is naturally resistant to decay and insects, making it a highly durable option for luxury wardrobe construction.

Teak

A highly durable hardwood that is often grown and harvested responsibly, providing a sustainable and high-quality option for luxury wardrobe construction.

Walnut

A hardwood that is highly prized for its rich, dark colour and striking grain pattern. It is often grown and harvested responsibly.

Pine

A softwood that can be grown and harvested responsibly. It is a versatile material that can be used for both traditional and modern wardrobe designs.

5. Engineered woods: the types of wood that are made from multiple layers of wood veneers for luxury wardrobe construction

Engineered woods are types of wood that are made from multiple layers of wood veneers that are glued together, with the grains of each layer running in different directions. These woods are highly versatile and can be used in a variety of components of luxury wardrobes.

You may have heard of an engineered wood called plywood. With Plywood, each layer is arranged to run perpendicular to the one before it. This gives the wood its strength and durability, making it an excellent choice for wardrobe construction.

Particleboard is another common wood. It’s made from sawdust and resin that are pressed and heated to form panels, resulting in a dense and uniform material that is ideal for wardrobe construction. It is also an affordable and sustainable option, as it can be made from recycled wood.

Another example is medium-density fiberboard (MDF). MDF is made from wood fibres that are mixed with a binding agent and formed into sheets under high pressure and temperature. It is a highly uniform and smooth material making it easy to shape and paint.

Less common options are Oriented strand board (OSB), Cross-laminated timber (CLT), and Fibre-reinforced plastics (FRP).

6. Reclaimed woods: the types of wood that are salvaged from old buildings and repurposed for luxury wardrobe construction

Reclaimed wood is a type of wood that is salvaged from old buildings, furniture, or other sources, and repurposed for use in luxury wardrobe construction. This wood is often rich in character and history. It has unique features such as nail holes, saw marks and weathering that provide a one-of-a-kind look to the finished product.

One of the benefits of using reclaimed wood in luxury wardrobe construction is its sustainability. By salvaging wood from old structures that are no longer in use, we can reduce the need to cut down trees and contribute to deforestation. Additionally, using reclaimed wood can help reduce waste and promote a circular economy by repurposing materials that might otherwise go to waste.

The best types of wood to use are those that are durable, stable, and rich. We recommend woods like Old-growth pine, Oak, Redwood and Chestnut.

7. Finishes and stains: how different finishes and stains can affect the appearance and durability of wood used in luxury wardrobes

The finish and stain applied to wood used in luxury wardrobes can greatly affect its appearance and durability. Finishes and stains can protect the wood from scratches, wear, and moisture, as well as enhance its natural beauty and grain patterns. There are several different finishes and stains available, each with its unique characteristics and benefits.

One of the most popular types of finish is a clear finish. This type of finish allows the natural colour and grain of the wood to shine through while providing a protective layer to prevent scratches and wear. Clear finishes can be either oil-based or water-based, with oil-based finishes providing a warmer, more amber colour to the wood, and water-based finishes offering a clearer, more transparent look.

Stains are another popular choice for luxury wardrobes. Stains can be used to enhance the natural colour of the wood or create a specific colour or tone. They can be either water-based or oil-based, and come in a variety of colours and opacities, from light and translucent to dark and opaque.

8. Wood grains and textures: how different wood grains and textures can affect the aesthetic appeal of luxury wardrobes

The natural grain and texture of a wood can greatly affect the aesthetic appeal of luxury wardrobes. Different types of wood have unique grain patterns and textures that can enhance the beauty and character of luxury wardrobes. Depending on the wood you choose, you can end up with a rich and dark aesthetic as in this Milano Sliding Door Wardrobe by Misura Emme or a much lighter minimalist look like this Geometric Walk-In Wardrobe by Dall'Agnese.

The way the wood is cut and prepared can also impact the grain pattern and texture, creating a range of visually appealing options. For instance, oak and cherry have distinctive and warm grain patterns, while maple and birch have a more subtle and modern look. Texture is another important factor, with woods like pine and cedar providing a traditional and rustic feel, and teak and walnut providing a sleek and modern appearance.

Smooth textures are created by sanding the wood to create a sleek and uniform surface, while rustic textures are created by leaving the wood in its natural state or roughing up the surface for a more weathered look.

Wire-brushed textures are created by brushing the surface of the wood with a wire brush to enhance the natural grain pattern, and distressed textures are created by intentionally creating marks and imperfections for a vintage appearance.

Different types of wood, such as maple, birch, teak, pine, cedar, oak, hickory, and ash, are often used to achieve these textures, providing a unique and visually appealing look that can complement various design styles.

9. Durability and maintenance: how the different types of wood used in luxury wardrobe construction can impact their longevity and maintenance needs

Generally speaking, hardwoods like oak, maple, and cherry are easy to maintain as they are more durable and resistant to wear and tear, making them less likely to scratch, dent, or warp over time.

Softwoods like pine and cedar, on the other hand, are more porous and require more frequent maintenance to keep them looking their best.

That being said, with proper care and maintenance, both hardwood and softwood luxury wardrobes can provide many years of use and enjoyment. It's good practice to:

• Dust regularly: Dust regularly with a soft, lint-free cloth to remove any accumulated dirt or debris.
• Clean with a gentle solution: Occasionally clean with a mild solution of water and a gentle cleaning agent, such as dish soap or wood cleaner. Avoid using abrasive cleaners, as these can scratch the surface of the wood.
• Polish periodically: Periodically polish your wardrobe with high-quality furniture polish to protect and maintain the natural beauty of the wood.
• Protect from direct sunlight: Avoid exposing your wardrobe to prolonged periods of direct sunlight, as this can cause the wood to fade and become discoloured over time.
• Keep away from moisture: Avoid exposing the wardrobe to excessive moisture or humidity, as this can cause the wood to warp or crack.

10. Cost and availability: how the different types of wood used in luxury wardrobe construction can affect their cost and availability

The type of wood used in luxury wardrobe construction can have a significant impact on both the cost and availability of the finished product. Some types of wood are more readily available and affordable, while others may be more difficult to obtain and come with a higher price tag.

Hardwoods like oak, maple, and cherry are among the most commonly used woods in luxury wardrobe construction and are generally readily available and relatively affordable. These woods are grown in many parts of the world and are often harvested from responsibly managed forests, making them a sustainable and environmentally friendly option.

As previously mentioned, exotic woods like teak, mahogany, and rosewood, on the other hand, can be more difficult to obtain and often come with a higher price tag due to their scarcity and unique characteristics. These woods are often imported from far-off regions and may require special permits or certifications to ensure that they are harvested sustainably and legally.

Reclaimed woods can also be a more affordable option, as they are salvaged from old buildings and repurposed for luxury wardrobe construction. However, the availability of reclaimed wood can vary depending on the location and availability of suitable sources.

In Conclusion

To create a bespoke luxury wardrobe that complements the overall aesthetic of your living space, it is important to carefully consider the unique characteristics of each type of wood, including grain patterns, textures, durability, sustainability, and cost.

With such a wide range of options available, from the natural beauty of hardwoods to the eco-friendliness of reclaimed wood, there is a wood type to suit every taste.

Whether you're looking for a statement wardrobe or want to add a classic traditional design. We invite you to explore our showroom and interact with our impressive range of over 200 wardrobe material options.

To get ideas on how to decorate your living areas, take inspiration from the design projects we've completed for high-end properties throughout the United Kingdom.