Help & advice
Last updated: May 22, 2026
Planning your bedroom renovation and thinking about storage? Solid wood, MFC, MDF, plywood, glass and mirrors are the most common materials used in the making of custom built furniture. Time to get planning!
Consider using recycled or reclaimed materials, such as reclaimed wood or recycled glass, this reduces the environmental impact. Shop around for sustainable sourcing practices, finding FSC-certified wood (ensures that the materials used come from responsibly managed forests) is easier now than ever.
Hardwoods like Oak and Walnut are extremely durable and will stand the test of time. They have a quality finish, whilst softwoods like Pine and Cedar offer a more affordable option.

This is an engineered wood product made from wood fibre, often a good choice for affordability while still offering strength and durability. It has a smooth flat surface great for painting.

Made from wood chips and bonded with a melamine resin surface. MFC comes in a variety of designs and colours and is affordable, lightweight and functional. It has a low resistance to water however, so although the surface is wipe-clean, it will have a shorter life-span if exposed to any significant amount of water or a damp/humid environment.

Made from thin layers (plies) of wood veneers glued together with their grain rotated with each layer. This cross-graining enhances the strength and stability of the sheet. Plywood comes in various grades, thicknesses, and types and is commonly used for furniture due to its strength, durability, and resistance to warping.

Glass or mirror (on the doors of wardrobes or cabinets) can help a room look spacious and light.

It goes without saying that if you haven't already, you'll want to make sure there is enough space for your custom made furniture in the room. Planning a bedroom remodel? Read more on planning the best layout for your bedroom.

Frequently asked questions
What is the best material for custom made furniture?
The best material depends on where the furniture is going and how it will be used. Solid wood is durable and long lasting, MDF is good for painted finishes, plywood is strong and stable, and MFC is usually the most affordable option.
Is MDF good for built-in wardrobes?
Yes, MDF is commonly used for built-in wardrobes because it is strong, affordable and has a smooth surface for painting. It is a good choice if you want a clean, painted finish rather than a natural wood grain.
What is the difference between MDF and MFC?
MDF is made from compressed wood fibres and is usually painted or finished afterwards. MFC is chipboard with a melamine surface already applied, so it comes pre-finished in different colours and designs.
Is plywood better than MDF for furniture?
Plywood is generally stronger and more resistant to warping than MDF, which makes it useful for furniture that needs extra strength or stability. MDF is often better for smooth painted doors, panels and built-in cabinetry.
Is solid wood worth it for custom furniture?
Solid wood can be worth it if you want a long-lasting, natural material that can be repaired or refinished over time. It usually costs more than MDF, MFC or plywood, so it may not be necessary for every part of a built-in unit.
Can you use MFC in bedrooms?
Yes, MFC can work well for bedroom furniture and wardrobes. It is affordable, wipe-clean and available in lots of finishes. It is less suitable for damp or humid areas because water exposure can shorten its lifespan.
Are mirrored wardrobes a good idea?
Mirrored wardrobe doors can work well in bedrooms because they reflect light and make the room feel larger. They are especially useful in smaller rooms, but you still need to plan door swing, clearance and layout properly.
What should you check before ordering custom made furniture?
Before ordering custom furniture, check the room dimensions, ceiling height, wall type, floor levels and clearance around doors and drawers. Built-in furniture affects the layout, lighting and socket positions, so it needs to be planned early.
Bedroom
Planning the best layout for your bedroom
Sometimes it can be helpful to start from the outside and work your way in.
Bedroom
Where to put plug sockets in a bedroom
At some point you'll be asked where you want your sockets in your bedroom, and it pays to have a plan rather than live without being able to charge your phone on one side of the bed or plug in a lamp in that dark corner!
Bedroom
Mastering bedroom lighting, what do I need to know?
One thing that everyone seems to agree on is to make sure you have different types of lighting in your bedroom, also known as layering.
Bedroom
What flooring is best for a bedroom
When choosing what flooring to have, consider how it will feel under foot, think about noise issues and how you want to feel in the room.
Bedroom
Where should wardrobes go (and how deep should they be)?
They take up more space than people expect and have a big impact on how the room works, your lighting plan and where your sockets and switches are. Even which way your door opens!





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