Whether you run a small office or head a multi-million corporation, you should consider getting a cocobolo desk. It is a statement piece, that screams values, money, and success. The wood is lustrous, has a shimmering finish, and comes in various unique grain designs.
It gives the impression of marble, though it is wood, thanks to its high sheen. Because it is made from a block of rare wood, it is very expensive and, if you can afford it, you show the world that you have made it.
Cocobolo wood
The wood comes for the cocobolo desk from a tree that grows in Central America. The wood, once polished, is usually brown, exuding warmth and tradition. It comes in accents of red, yellow, black, and purple which gives it a unique appearance.
The other characteristics of cocobolo wood are:
- A floral fragrance
- Sound-absorbing qualities
- Expressive grains
It is a hardwood, so can last practically forever, if well-maintained and polished regularly. It may also be called Mexican rosewood.
Cocobolo wood is often favored by world-renowned designers like Don S. Shoemaker. The only wood that comes close in terms of texture, hardness, and finish is rosewood, which is more commonly available and less expensive than cocobolo.
Does the cocobolo desk have any downsides?
Since the wood is very rare, it is difficult to find. The tree belongs to the Dalbergia family which is also an endangered species according to CITES (the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora).
While cutting and polishing the wood, a great deal of dust is released and this is harmful people can get allergic reactions if the dust is inhaled. People working with this wood have to wear protective gear to prevent this from happening.
Another negative of working with this wood is that it is difficult to glue since the glue does not take because the wood has a lot of natural oils. There is a process to get it to adhere.
Environmentally friendly (and cheaper alternatives)
Whether you are concerned with the high price or the fact that cocobolo wood is difficult to find, or you want more environmentally-friendly alternatives, don’t worry, you can get many.
If you are looking for authentic wooden desks, then you can opt for wood such as
- Cherry wood – also a hardwood and is sustainable and easier to grow
- Red cedar wood –with somewhat similar properties and colors as cocobolo wood
- Walnut wood – its brown tones can make it look quite similar to cocobolo wood, though it is an expensive option
- Douglas fir wood – with more reddish-brown tones and fairly expressive grains, provides a reasonably priced alternative to cocobolo.
- Maple wood – while light in color, it can be polished and stained according to your taste.
- Pinewood – this is reasonably priced and can be polished so that it mimics cocobolo colors.
On the other hand, if price and durability are on your mind, it is best to opt for laminates. These can be glued onto cheaper woods, including plywood, MDF, and wood composites. You can choose the design and type of laminate as there are many different ones available.
One major benefit of laminates is that it is easy to maintain and keep clean, are largely not easy to dent or scratch, and do not need polishing. It is also very durable. Being lightweight and reasonably priced, you can get this environmentally friendly desk instead of splurging on a cocobolo desk.
Final words
If you can afford it, you should buy a cocobolo desk because of its rarity and its durability. If you are budget-conscious, then you can go in for any of the above alternatives that will also serve you well. You can always go in for a unique design if that appeals to you.
