Understanding Valchromat: The Colourful Alternative to Traditional Wood

If you've been following contemporary furniture design, you may have noticed a material appearing in striking colours that seem almost too vibrant to be wood-based. That material is Valchromat, and it's become one of my favourite materials to work with at Hykel Design.

What Exactly is Valchromat?

Valchromat is an engineered wood panel made from wood fibres that are dyed throughout with organic colourants before being combined with resin and compressed under heat. Unlike painted MDF where colour sits only on the surface, Valchromat's colour runs all the way through the board – meaning edges, cuts, and even scratches all reveal the same consistent colour.

Manufactured in Portugal using sustainable pine from well-managed forests, it represents a genuinely innovative approach to engineered wood products. The result is a material that offers design possibilities simply not available with traditional timber.

The Colour Palette

Valchromat is available in eight standard colours, ranging from subtle neutrals to bold statements:

In my work, I particularly love combining black and green Valchromat with natural oak – the contrast creates furniture that feels both contemporary and timeless.

Why I Use Valchromat

As a furniture maker, Valchromat offers several compelling advantages that make it ideal for certain projects:

Design Freedom: The through-body colour means I can create designs where exposed edges become a feature rather than something to hide. Chamfered edges, routed details, and visible joints all showcase the material beautifully.

Durability: Valchromat is dense, stable, and resistant to moisture – making it suitable for kitchens, bathrooms, and high-traffic areas where traditional MDF might struggle.

Sustainability: Made from certified sustainable wood sources and using organic dyes, it aligns with my commitment to environmentally responsible furniture making.

Combining Valchromat with Natural Wood

Where Valchromat truly shines in bespoke furniture is when combined with natural hardwoods. The contrast between the solid, consistent colour of Valchromat and the organic grain patterns of oak, ash, or walnut creates pieces that are genuinely distinctive.

I've created cabinets with black Valchromat bodies and solid oak doors, tables with green Valchromat tops featuring oak inlays, and shelving systems that play black Valchromat against warm birch plywood. These combinations create a contemporary aesthetic that I'm genuinely enthusiastic about.

Is Valchromat Right for Your Project?

If you're considering a piece of bespoke furniture and want something that makes a statement, Valchromat could be the perfect choice. It works particularly well for:

• Media units and TV cabinets where bold colours can anchor a room
• Kitchen furniture including cupboards, islands, and dresser units
• Children's furniture where colour adds personality and fun
• Office furniture and desks that need to stand out
• Feature tables and statement pieces