Leeds-based Spa’s findings are based on enquiries generated from more than 19,000 visitors to its veneer website www.veneerselector.com during the past 12 months.
Marketing director Daryn Forster said while dark woods were still dominating both commercial and residential interiors, an interesting grain pattern was also proving important.
Spa reports that strong grain species American black walnut, macassar ebony and santos rosewood are the three darkest veneers currently most in demand.
“American black walnut is a favourite because it is a readily available and cost-effective veneer, while more exotic macassar ebony is selected for high end projects,” said Mr Forster.
He said dark veneers had been specified in retail developments, offices and hotels for some time but were also now being chosen for residential kitchens, bedrooms and bathrooms.
“It’s the grain rather than the colour that’s important,” said Felicia Ng of architects, designers and property developers Chantrey Davis.
Young designer Mark Humphreys used Spa’s website to choose santos rosewood for a kitchen island unit as “it makes a big statement”.
