A Guide to Matching Timber Veneer with Other Interior Materials

Name: Bord Products
Item: Bord Products
Rating: 4.8
Author: Issam Benmansour

Timber veneer is one of the most versatile materials you can use in interior design. It brings a natural warmth and refined character to any space, whether you're fitting out a large commercial environment or fine-tuning the details of a custom home renovation.

With so many textures, tones, and species available, timber veneer is incredibly adaptable. But knowing how to pair it with other materials—stone, glass, metal, or textiles—can make all the difference between a space that feels cohesive and one that misses the mark.

This guide walks you through how to confidently match timber veneer with a range of other interior materials to create beautiful, functional, and design-forward environments.

Timber Veneer 101: A Quick Refresher

Timber veneer is made from thin slices of real timber—usually around 0.3mm to 2.5mm thick—bonded to a substrate like plywood or MDF. It gives you the beauty of natural timber without the weight or cost of solid wood, making it ideal for joinery, cabinetry, and wall panelling across both residential and commercial projects.

You’ll find a wide selection of species like oak, walnut, ash, and blackbutt, each offering distinct colour tones, grains, and textures to suit different aesthetics—from minimalist to richly traditional.

Natural Pairings: Earthy, Organic and Effortless

Timber Veneer + Stone

Combining the warmth of timber with the cool, grounded feel of stone creates balance and contrast. Pair light timbers like birch or oak with limestone or white marble for a soft, airy look. For richer veneers like walnut or spotted gum, consider darker stone finishes like slate or granite to add depth.

Timber Veneer + Leather

Leather adds texture and a touch of luxury, making it a natural partner for timber veneer. For a sophisticated look, match dark timbers with chocolate or tan leather. If you're working with lighter veneers, pale or matte-finish leather keeps things feeling fresh and modern.

Timber Veneer + Glass

Glass is perfect for adding a contemporary edge. Its transparency softens the visual weight of timber and allows light to bounce through a space. Think timber veneer cabinetry paired with glass shelving, or wall panelling set alongside large windows or glazed partitions

Sleek & Modern: Materials for Contemporary Spaces

Timber Veneer + Concrete

In modern or industrial interiors, concrete delivers raw texture. Pair it with timber veneer to bring balance and warmth. For example, timber veneer cupboards with a polished concrete benchtop work beautifully in kitchens or commercial spaces.

Timber Veneer + Steel

Steel adds strength and crisp lines. When combined with timber, it creates a visually striking contrast. Use steel in shelving, stair rails or door hardware to elevate timber feature walls or custom joinery.

Timber Veneer + Marble

Want a luxury finish? Pair timber veneer with marble in bathrooms or kitchens. The clean, elegant veining of marble plays off the organic grain of timber to create a timeless and upscale feel.

Sustainable Pairings That Make Sense

Timber Veneer + Bamboo

Bamboo is fast-growing, durable, and eco-friendly—making it a smart match for sustainable interiors. Use bamboo in flooring or furniture and pair it with timber veneer cabinetry or wall panels to create a natural, calming aesthetic.

Timber Veneer + Recycled Materials

Reclaimed timber, recycled glass tiles, or repurposed steel can bring character and a unique story to your design. These materials work especially well alongside modern timber veneers, creating an interesting contrast between polished and raw elements.

While aesthetic is important, it’s also

While aesthetic is important, it’s also crucial to factor in practical considerations like durability, cost, and upkeep:

Stone and glass need regular cleaning to maintain their appearance.
Leather requires occasional conditioning.
Concrete and steel are robust but can feel cold unless softened with timber.

In high-traffic or wet areas, pairing timber veneer with more resilient materials like concrete or stone helps extend the life of your fit-out while still achieving a sophisticated finish.

Where the Magic Happens: Making Timber Veneer Shine

When matched thoughtfully with complementary materials, timber veneer becomes more than just a finish—it becomes the focal point of the room. Whether you're working on a premium retail fit-out, luxury kitchen, or bespoke office interior, combining timber veneer with stone, glass, steel or sustainable elements allows you to design spaces that are cohesive, functional, and visually striking.

Explore the full range of premium timber veneer, plywood, and panel products available at Bord Products. For project guidance or expert advice, get in touch with our team or browse our resources for more inspiration.