How to Choose the Right Wood Species?
Walnut, oak or beech? We explain the 5 key factors to consider when choosing wood for furniture.
The most common question from our custom furniture clients is: "Which wood should I choose?" The right choice depends on your budget, the humidity of your space, frequency of use, and aesthetic preference. Here is what you need to know.
1. Hardness and Durability
On the Janka hardness scale, oak (1290 lbf) and walnut (1010 lbf) rank high. For high-traffic surfaces — kitchen countertops, dining tables — hard woods are preferred. Beech (1300 lbf) is one of the hardest domestic woods; ideal for chairs and stair treads. Cherry is a beautiful medium-hard alternative that darkens beautifully over time.
2. Grain and Appearance
Oak's pronounced ring pattern, walnut's straight dark grain, cherry's warm red-brown… Each species has its own aesthetic. Always see physical samples before deciding — screen colours can be misleading.
3. Moisture and Climate
In Turkey's humid coastal regions, walnut and oak perform better; they resist expansion-contraction cycles well. Beech and hornbeam adapt better to the dry climate of inland areas.
4. Surface Finish
If using natural oil finishes (Osmo, Rubio Monocoat), light-coloured woods — beech, hornbeam — absorb more oil and can block the surface; more careful application is needed. Walnut and oak give near-perfect results with natural oil.
5. Budget
The price scale roughly: Beech/hornbeam (economy) → Oak (mid) → Cherry (mid-high) → Walnut (premium). If your budget is tight, the mixed technique — walnut on visible surfaces, beech on hidden parts — is an excellent solution.
