Indian architecture and interior design have long been partial to wood for decades now. The many uses of different kinds of wood make it easy to incorporate the material into different styles and design plans. Similarly, when sourced ethically and responsibly, wood is a sustainable way to do your interiors.

Here, we’ve put together the different types of wood and their uses, specific to the Indian market.

#1: Why should you go for wooden furniture?

Before we get into the different types of wood used in furniture, you might be wondering if wooden furniture is even worth it. This, of course, entirely depends on your personal tastes. However, it’s also good to know the benefits of using different types of wood for furniture.

In other words, if you love the rustic look of wood in your interiors, it’s definitely worth the investment. In fact, wood used for furniture can also be fairly long-lasting, making it a great heirloom investment that’s also low on maintenance.

#2: What are the different types of wood in India?

Since there are several different kinds of wood in India, it helps to know what each of them is. Here’s a list of the top 10 costly wood in India, and how you can use it for furniture.

1. Teak wood

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Teak furniture is naturally cool (and looks like it too)

When it comes to the different kinds of wood in India, teak wood is possibly the most common and strongest wood in India. Interestingly, this isn’t only because it’s one of the types of wood found in India, specifically in Kerala.

So, what makes teak wood the best wood for furniture in India? The answer is simple:

  • Teak wood is cost-effective and strong, which makes it ideal for crafting essential furniture such as bed frames and cabinets
  • It’s one of the more durable types of wood with natural waterproofing abilities, making it ideal for outdoor use as well
  • If you’re looking to install wooden flooring at home among the many types of wood for furniture in India, teak wood is your best bet

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2. Indian rosewood

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If you’d like to have intricate carvings on your furniture, rosewood is a great option

Rosewood, or Sheesham, is the most expensive wood in India found in Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and Odisha, among other states. Its ability to withstand any variety of polish or finish makes it the best wood for furniture in India, especially for living room and bedroom furniture. 

If you’re looking for a rosewood versus teak wood comparison, you should know that rosewood is a tad more expensive of the two. However, rosewood furniture makes up for the price by being durable and termite-resistant. When this type of wood is used for furniture, its definitive grain pattern further adds visual interest to the space.

Also Read: Made of Wood: Inspiring Pooja Rooms for Your Home

3. Sal wood

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Perfect for indoor rafters, sal wood is a house favourite among the types of wood

A dark-brown variant among the types of wood in India, sal wood is a strong and hardy contender. The use of such types of wood is restricted to providing strength and support to structures.

What’s more, sal wood is also resistant to termites and fungus. Given this, several homeowners would consider sal as the best wood for furniture in India. These factors further justify its common use in making indoor window frames, doors and support beams.

Also Read: What Kind of Wood or Wood-Like Materials are Used in Home Interiors and Why?

4. Cedar or Marandi wood

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Cedarwood is one of the best types of wood in India to moisture-proof your wardrobes

Renowned for its strength, cedar wood is commonly used for crafting outdoor furniture and used abundantly in wooden wardrobes.

  • Better yet, while its fragrance naturally repels insects, for humans, it is a pleasing scent!
  • The ingrained cedar oil makes it weatherproof and resistant to fungal growth and bacteria.
  • Amongst the different types of wood for furniture, cedarwood is low maintenance and an ideal wood choice for the Indian climate.

So, if you live in a high-humidity region, the different kinds of wood in India you use will play a pivotal part in keeping your interiors in shape.

5. Mahogany wood

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Moisture-resistant mahogany wood is a great investment in areas of high moisture

This wood type is identifiable by its trademark reddish-brown shade.

  • Mahogany furniture has a natural affinity towards polishes, which only makes it more resistant to moisture and fluctuating temperatures. 
  • Due to its stable nature, it is less likely to shrink, warp or swell as the weather changes.
  • Its wood grain and deep colour make mahogany a natural choice for doors and indoor furniture like bed frames or even crockery cabinets.

Also Read: 10+ Bed Design Ideas to Discover Your Snooze Style

6. Oak wood

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To add some rustic charm to your dining space, opt for a simple oak table

Oak wood is best known for its durability and high rate of wear and tear. This type of wood comes in a variety of colours, from almost white to dark brown, making it quite versatile in terms of style. 

Therefore, it is the most practical choice of wood as a material for dining table tops that are used on a daily basis. And that’s not all! Compared to mahogany wood, oak has a lower wood price in India, which is ideal for budget alternatives. 

7. Mulberry wood

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Make a statement with a rustic-chic dining table made from mulberry wood

If you’re familiar with the Chinese tradition of keeping tea pets, you might know that they age with time and use. Just as these tea pets age and discolour from being steeped in tea, the same goes for mulberry. Though a durable material of wood, the colour tone of mulberry wood can vary drastically. So, if you prefer a select shade of wood for your furniture, be sure to stain your mulberry furniture accordingly.

8. Deodar wood

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Mix things up with two-tone cabinets for your kitchen made using deodar wood

If you prefer a lighter strain of wood, deodar is probably one of the more suitable types of wood for you.

  • Deodar wood also has its own anti-fungal properties just like cedarwood.
  • For colder climates, deodar can be the best wood for furniture in India as it is native to the Himalayas.

This makes it all the more resistant to lower temperatures and is suitable for use in interiors.

Also Read: The Ultimate Guide on Waterproof Plywood: Types, Advantages and Cost

9. Jackwood

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Love the look of dark cabinetry? Perhaps Jackwood can do your interiors justice

If you read the term jackwood and immediately pictured a jackfruit, you certainly got it right. Jackwood is nothing but the wood derived from the jackfruit trees we know and love. Typically, the types of wood from this category are used to make musical instruments in addition to furniture. Who knew one tree could have so many benefits?

10. Satinwood

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If there’s one way to get the look and feel of antique furniture, it’s with satinwood

Unlike deodar, satinwood is native to the southern areas of India and is typically seen in antique-style furniture. Compared to the other types of wood, satinwood offers a lighter shade. You can also play around with the colour of this wood by using different stains or finishes.

#3: Sal wood vs teak wood: Which one should you choose?

Both Sal and Teak wood are popular choices for furniture and home interiors in India. If you are interested in sustainable and beautiful options for your homes, here’s what you need to know:

sal-wood-vs-teak-wood

#4: What are some notable qualities of different types of wood for furniture?

  • Appearance: Good-quality wood has a clean finish with a visible grain. If the wood you are purchasing is rough or scratched, chances are it is of low quality.
  • Colour: This can vary with different types of wood but if the colour looks very artificial, you might want to check the authenticity of the wood.
  • Durability: If the furniture you are purchasing barely lasts a couple of years, it probably isn’t made of genuine wood. Real wood is more long-lasting and durable.

Also Read: All About Laminates: Types, Finishes, Maintenance and Tips to Choose

How can Livspace help you?

While this article focuses on the perfect wood for your furniture, creating a cohesive and functional living space involves more than just materials. Livspace, a one-stop shop for home interiors, can help you translate your chosen wood type into a stunning reality.

  • Count on us for premium-grade materials that are not only high-quality but also built to last
  • We have delivered 75,000+ happy #LivspaceHomes
  • Our team consists of 3,500+ expert designers
  • We offer easy EMIs and a flat 10-year warranty*

If you want beautiful interiors for your home, then look no further. Book an online consultation with Livspace today.

*For select finishes on modular products. For full scope of warranty, please visit zonemlb.com/in/service

Disclaimer: All contents of the story are specific to the time of publication. Mentions of costs, budget, materials, finishes, and products from the Livspace catalogue can vary with reference to current rates. Talk to our designer for more details on pricing and availability.