The timeless appeal of wood in Cyprus’ Hospitality Design

In the dynamic and diverse hospitality sector of Cyprus, wood remains a cornerstone material, infusing spaces with warmth, luxury, timeless beauty and a deep connection to nature.

The range of wood types available meets various aesthetics, costs, durability, and maintenance needs – key factors in the hospitality industry, not just in Cyprus but globally. Whether used in upscale resorts, chic boutique hotels or rustic Mediterranean retreats, wood offers designers endless possibilities to create environments that are both functional and visually striking.

Let’s take a closer look at how wood – both natural and engineered – is shaping hospitality design in Cyprus today.

Natural Wood - versatile and reliable

Natural hardwoods such as Red and White Oak, Walnut, Meranti and Iroko, are highly prized for their strength, beauty and unique character. These materials elevate spaces, each contributing its own distinct effect. Oak, for example, is the most common wood used in hospitality today due to its versatility and rich grain. It serves as the perfect canvas, easily adaptable to a wide range of interior styles. This is evident in some of our latest projects, where the same oak material - finished with different varnishes and techniques – creates diverse atmospheres. The whitewashed oak used in the Robinson’s Club renovation brings a light, airy feel, while the warm honey finish of oak furniture at Cavo Zoe Seaside Boutique Hotel adds an inviting, cozy touch. Fire-rated oak Doors at Sunwing Resort’s apartment entrances provide both safety and elegance, showcasing the material’s practicality and beauty.

Solid wood, when paired with timber veneer, can be used to create everything: from fixed furniture to free-standing pieces, ensuring both flexibility and sophistication. With proper maintenance, natural wood can retain its appearance and preserve its beauty for years to come.

In Cyprus, Pine – a softwood - is frequently used for structural applications and rustic, traditional furniture designs that honor the island’s heritage. A prime example of this can be seen at the Apokryfo Guesthouse, a charming cluster of stone houses located in the picturesque village of Lofou, at the foothills of Mount Olympus. The natural pine wood used here enhances the rustic charm and organic feel of the space, creating a warm, welcoming atmosphere.

Engineered Wood - practical and cost-effective

While natural woods remain highly valued for their beauty, engineered woods are gaining popularity in the hospitality industry due to their practicality, versatility, cost-effectiveness and lower maintenance needs. These materials offer designers greater flexibility and durability at various price points.

Plywood with its sleek, modern appearance and exceptional strength and stability, is ideal for a wide range of applications. For projects that require intricate design or painted finishes, MDF – Medium Density Fiberboard – is an excellent choice as its smooth surface makes it perfect for CNC-machined details and custom creations. A great example of this is seen in the interior doors at LIV Makenzie Beach Suites, where classic cornice detailing was brought to life with a stunning sand beige and sea blue paint finish.

Engineered panels cover a wide range of materials, combining various core and finish options. Nanotechnology developed finishes that offer anti-fingerprint smooth surfaces, paired with water-resistant core boards, for example, are perfect for high-traffic areas, where durability and sleek aesthetics are paramount. This was precisely the goal for the kitchens at LIV Makenzie Beach Suites, where these advanced materials were used to achieve both form and function.

When working with more cost-effective budgets, opting for MFC - Melamine Faced Chipboard – is the most effective option. It offers a wide range of finishes and textures, combining affordability with versatility. An example of MFC’s use is found in the common areas of ChrysoMare Beach Hotel, where dark walnut-coloured MFC panels were used for various furniture units, enhancing the space’s elegant appeal within budget.

Sustainability is a growing priority in the hospitality industry, and selecting responsibly sourced wood is an essential part of this effort. We always ensure that the wood we use comes from responsibly managed forests, certified by organizations like the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC). Most of the wood imported into Cyprus is sourced from Europe (beech and panels), Sweden (pine), Africa (iroko), Malaysia (meranti), and America (red & white oak), ensuring adherence to high environmental and ethical standards.

Shaping Hospitality design through Wood

Wood has an incredible ability to transform a space into a warm, inviting environment that elevates the overall guest experience. Whether it’s the rich aroma of natural timber filling the air in a luxurious hotel lobby or the comforting feel of wooden furniture in a cozy guest room, wood enhances depth and elegance in any setting.

As the hospitality industry continues to evolve, the fusion of aesthetic appeal, functionality, maintenance and sustainability in wood-based design remains an enduring trend. The versatility of wood - whether natural or engineered - ensures that it will continue to shape the future of hospitality design, offering guests unforgettable experiences.

At INCITO, this is what we strive for in every hospitality project. By using the finest materials and expert craftsmanship, we create functional, visually stunning spaces that leave a lasting impression on guests."