Choosing the Right Wood: A Guide to British Hardwood for Bespoke Furniture

When it comes to bespoke furniture, the type of wood you choose is just as important as the design itself. At Sand & Grain Furniture, we work exclusively with British hardwoods, each carefully selected for its quality, sustainability, and unique character. Whether you’re looking for a dining table with impact or a small but beautiful chopping board, here’s a guide to some of the wood types we work with – and how to choose the right one for your project.

Oak

Strong, dependable, and timeless – Oak is a popular choice for furniture thanks to its attractive grain and incredible durability. It’s ideal for dining tables, shelves, and statement pieces that are built to last.

Elm

Full of character, Elm has a striking, irregular grain and rich tones that create a rustic, natural look. It’s a perfect option for live edge tables and other organic-feel pieces.

Ash

Ash is light in colour with a clean, bold grain. It’s both strong and flexible, making it ideal for furniture that needs to be tough but also visually light, such as benches or table tops.

Walnut

If you’re after something darker and more refined, Walnut’s deep, chocolatey hues and smooth finish make it a luxurious choice for contemporary designs or statement pieces.

Sycamore

Bright and pale, Sycamore offers a smooth, even grain that’s great for modern, minimalist furniture. It takes finish beautifully and works well for chopping boards and shelves.

Cherry, Yew, London Plane & Burr Variants

These less-common but equally stunning woods are ideal for more decorative or expressive pieces. Their colour and grain vary from warm and golden to wildly figured, making them perfect for unique, show-stopping furniture.

At Sand & Grain Furniture, our timber stock is always evolving – so if you’re looking for something specific or want help selecting the best wood for your space, just ask. We’re always happy to talk timber!