THE FOUNDATION OF EXCELLENCE

At Fawn Allen, our material selection forms the bedrock of our craft. Each timber is chosen not just for its immediate beauty, but for how it will mature and perform over generations. We understand that the materials we select today will tell their story for decades to come.

BIRCH PLYWOOD: ENGINEERING EXCELLENCE

Our carefully sourced birch plywood represents the pinnacle of engineered wood materials. Unlike standard commercial plywoods, our specification demands void-free construction and exceptional stability throughout each layer. This allows us to create complex forms while maintaining absolute structural integrity.

In our workshop, birch plywood forms the foundation of our cabinet making. We use it for carcasses requiring exceptional stability demanding precise tolerances. Its reliability makes it perfect for interior fittings that need to maintain their shape precisely, and for large panels where solid wood would be impractical.

EUROPEAN OAK: TIMELESS CHARACTER

European oak remains a cornerstone of our work, and for good reason. Its remarkable durability, beautiful grain patterns, and ability to age gracefully make it indispensable in our craft. We select each board individually, considering not just its immediate appearance but how it will mature over time.

In exposed cabinet fronts, European oak develops a rich patina that tells the story of its use. For solid wood furniture, its strength and stability ensure pieces that will serve generations. When crafting architectural features, its natural variations add character while maintaining structural integrity. In flooring and panelling, it creates a warm, timeless backdrop that improves with age.

AMERICAN BLACK WALNUT: SOPHISTICATED LUXURY

When a project calls for dramatic elegance, we often turn to American black walnut. Its rich, deep tones and straight grain provide sophistication that's impossible to replicate with lesser materials. We particularly value it for statement furniture pieces where its natural beauty can take centre stage.

In luxurious interior details, walnut adds depth - when used for contrasting elements within lighter schemes, it creates sophisticated focal points that draw the eye. For libraries and studies, its association with traditional craftsmanship makes it particularly appropriate, while its contemporary appeal ensures it never feels dated.

THE ART OF SELECTION

Material selection is as much art as science. Our years of experience allow us to read grain patterns, understand seasonal variations, and anticipate how each piece will perform over time. This knowledge, combined with our commitment to excellence, ensures that every piece we create has the potential to become an heirloom.

Our workshop maintains a carefully curated stock of these premium materials, allowing us to select the perfect timber for each project. We understand that the success of any piece begins with this fundamental choice, and we take pride in sourcing and working with only the finest materials available.

SPECIALIST MATERIALS FOR DEMANDING ENVIRONMENTS 

While traditional materials form the cornerstone of our craft, certain spaces demand specialist solutions. In areas of high moisture such as utility rooms and bathrooms, we turn to Finsa Hidrofugo - an industry-leading moisture-resistant material that maintains its integrity in demanding environments.

Though MDF products have historically raised environmental concerns, we specifically choose Finsa for their outstanding environmental credentials. By thoughtfully combining Finsa Hidrofugo with our standard premium materials, we create spaces that are both beautiful and durable, even in the most challenging conditions.

EXCEEDING INDUSTRY STANDARDS

While industry standards serve their purpose, we believe in setting our own, higher benchmarks. Where many commercial workshops use 18mm melamine-faced chipboard for carcasses, we craft ours from 19mm oak-veneered birch plywood, offering superior strength and longevity. For wardrobes, we thoughtfully select 19mm poplar plywood, providing the perfect balance of durability and practicality for larger pieces that need to be carried upstairs.

Our door construction exemplifies this commitment to excellence. Industry standard doors typically measure 18mm in thickness. By contrast, we craft our door frames from 25-27mm tulipwood or solid oak, allowing for more robust joinery and ensuring they operate flawlessly for decades. These substantial frames, combined with our precise 2mm door gaps (compared to the industry standard 2-3mm), create pieces with a level of refinement that's immediately apparent.

Even in less visible elements, we exceed expectations. Our carcass back panels range from 10-15mm in thickness, rather than the standard 8mm, providing additional structural integrity. Our drawer boxes showcase 16mm solid oak construction, surpassing the typical 12-15mm specification. These might seem like small differences, but they compound to create pieces of exceptional quality.

A SUSTAINABLE APPROACH

Our timber selections reflect our commitment to sustainability. We source from responsible suppliers who share our values about forest management and environmental stewardship. Every board is carefully considered and used thoughtfully to minimise waste. By choosing quality materials and creating pieces that last generations, we reduce the cycle of replacement and waste that plagues modern furniture production.

THE INVESTMENT IN QUALITY

While premium materials represent a higher initial investment, their longevity and timeless appeal make them cost-effective over time. A well-crafted piece in quality timber will serve faithfully for generations, developing character and patina that mass-produced alternatives can never achieve. Our pieces are created to appreciate in beauty and value as they age, becoming tomorrow's heritage pieces.