Veneer vs Laminate: A Designer Perspective

In interior design, every surface matters – you may consider the wall, furniture, cabinets, wardrobes, etc. The laminate vs veneer debate ranks high up in modern interiors with both surfaces providing their own aesthetics and performance. Royale Touche, as the leading surface brand, wants to ensure both the homeowner and interior designer gets a thorough understanding of these surfaces to make a design decision that will last for performance and beauty.

What are veneer sheets?
A veneer sheet is a thin layer of real wood sliced and then pressed on to a substrate such as ply or MDF. Because it is real wood sliced directly from natural timber, there is a unique grain and texture to every sheet of veneer that brings an unmistakably real wood feel to the interior. Designers often look to veneer in their luxury projects – from statement pieces to executive spaces – where the natural beauty and craftsmanship of the wood will dominate the design.

The warm tones, the natural imperfections, and the timeless aesthetics of veneer bring character to the interior, but keep in mind veneer sheets require polishing on a somewhat regular basis, and caution when maintaining its finish. In terms of moisture resistance, it is moderate, thus this surface is well suited for the bedroom, office, and low humidity spaces.

What are laminate sheets?
Conversely, laminate is a manufactured surface created by pressing multiple layers of kraft paper and decorative film under ultra-high pressure. The durability, scratch resistance, and convenience of maintenance of laminates is unrivaled. Royale Touche laminate sheets only enhance this visual aesthetic with an impressive range – wood and stone textures to high gloss, matte, and abstract finishes alike.

Laminate sheets are the designer’s best choice for spaces that combine style with performance. Pick personal items such as cabinets, closets, or a countertop – a laminate sheet would give you the flexibility of low maintenance without compromising creativity. Laminate sheets also perform better against stains, moisture, and everyday wear, making them hassle-free in high-traffic areas.

Laminate vs Veneer: Designers’ Votes

In the laminate vs veneer case, this often depends on what you’re trying to achieve in the space. When you want an authentic, organic, luxury, high-end experience – veneers cannot be surpassed. They instill the authentic “ahh, this is nice” warmth experience into many spaces. In contrast, when designing for a contemporary design objective, laminate tends to come out on top as it relates to functionality and durability.

Often both materials are designed into spaces by architects and designers; for example, proper (premium) furniture pieces or wall panels may call for a veneer sheet as the material of choice while kitchens, modular units, walkup offices may lean towards laminate as the best option. Both can be designed into the same space to provide balance between luxury and durability while showcasing the best that both materials offer.

The Royale Touche Edge

Royale Touche is privileged to be center stage in this balancing role. The premium laminate sheet collection is designed with enhanced technology to be not only beautiful but strong and sustainable. Ultimately, if you like the luxurious aesthetic of a natural veneer or splashy beauty with laminate, Royale Touche can help you achieve styled designs that perform and uphold an aesthetic over time.

Conclusion

There isn’t an answer when choosing laminate vs veneer, only what is right for your space and you. Royale Touche acknowledges the need for beautiful interiors and beautiful design – with an endless selection of surface solutions, seamlessly merging luxury and longevity, you can make every corner of your home or office beautiful, built to last.