Why Are Designers Still Buying MDF?

In the world of interior design, solid wood shines - it's beautiful, durable, and renewable. If you can afford it, why not skip the flat pack world of MDF for its superior cousin?

Beside affordability, MDF (which stands for medium-density fiberboard) has a smooth, surface, free of knots or cracks, unlike its natural counterpart. If you intend to paint the finished woodcraft, it makes sense to use uniform and economical MDF. It's also stable and resists warping and cracking, making it great for cabinetry. It's lighter than many hardwoods, and more durable the plywood, so in effect, it has become the go-to in furniture manufacturing with good reason.

But if a beautiful stained finish is what you're after, nothing will compare to a true solid wood piece. And while these pieces are often initially more expensive, they can be resurfaced multiple times, often passing into multiple hands before being repurposed. Certain species are also moisture resistant (such as bamboo), and may be better suited for humid areas. Nothing beats the warm, organic feel of wood, so it's unlikely this construction staple will head anywhere soon.

Savvy sourcing for each product is still smart, though. Look for low-VOC MDF to take advantage of its recycled fiber content, and select wood from sustainable farms. For both products, the closer to home your product is produced, the more you can reduce transportation emissions.

At Brook & Bramble, all of the above factors are considered during sourcing. Trim, renovation, and painted finishes will most likely be MDF, but heavy use, heirloom pieces that are room centerpieces (such as tables, desks, and bed frames) are often worth the splurge for real wood. Both have their place in a well-designed home that balances form and function, cost and quality, tradition and innovation. And that's why, as designers, we still use MDF - sometimes it is the best for your space, budget, and everyday life.