Acacia Wood – A Popular Natural Material In Modern Interiors And Exteriors

1. Introduction

In recent years, acacia wood has become one of the most popular natural materials in the furniture and construction industries. Thanks to its affordable price, high durability, and excellent adaptability to different climates, acacia wood has gradually replaced many traditional hardwoods in the production of both indoor and outdoor furniture.

Scientifically known as Acacia (family Fabaceae), this wood is harvested from fast-growing trees that reach maturity in about 5–7 years. Its rapid growth and sustainable replanting cycles make acacia a renewable and eco-friendly resource, ideal for modern furniture manufacturing and sustainable interior design.


2. Key Characteristics of Acacia Wood

2.1. Colour and Grain

Acacia wood naturally ranges from pale yellow to warm golden brown, sometimes with subtle grey or amber undertones. Its straight, fine grain gives it a smooth and elegant appearance.
After proper kiln-drying and finishing, acacia wood takes oil or stain beautifully, fitting seamlessly into both modern and rustic interior styles. Its natural tones add warmth and sophistication to any space.

2.2. Hardness and Strength

Compared to softer woods such as pine or rubberwood, acacia is heavier, denser, and stronger. It withstands impact well and maintains shape under stress.
Because of this, acacia is widely used to craft dining tables, beds, wardrobes, flooring, and structural frames, ensuring longevity and stability in daily use.

2.3. Resistance to Termites and Moisture

When properly treated through industrial processes such as kiln-drying and oil impregnation, acacia wood achieves exceptional durability.
With a service life of 10–15 years, it resists cracking, shrinking, and termite damage—even in humid environments. This makes acacia a reliable choice for both indoor furniture and outdoor applications.

3. Advantages of Acacia Wood Compared to Other Materials

Property Acacia Wood Rubberwood Pine
Hardness & Durability High Medium Low
Water Resistance Excellent (when treated) Moderate Poor
Cost Efficiency Affordable Similar Lower
Appearance Natural golden tone, fine grain Light tone Pale yellow
Lifespan 10–15 years 7–10 years 5–7 years

Balancing strength, aesthetics, and cost, acacia wood has become an ideal material for both contemporary and traditional furniture designs.

4. Common Applications of Acacia Wood

4.1. Indoor Furniture

Acacia wood offers a warm, elegant look that enhances the comfort and character of living spaces. It is commonly used for:

  • Living rooms: coffee tables, TV stands, sofas with acacia frames.

  • Dining rooms: dining tables, dining chairs, cabinets.

  • Bedrooms: bed frames, wardrobes, bedside tables.

  • Flooring and wall cladding: solid acacia flooring or laminated acacia panels.

The wood’s natural colour and smooth texture allow easy combination with metal, glass, or fabric, creating a balanced aesthetic of nature and modernity.

4.2. Outdoor and Garden Furniture

With its excellent weather resistance, acacia wood is also a preferred choice for outdoor and garden furniture.
It performs well in areas exposed to sunlight, humidity, and rain, and is often used for:

  • Patio and garden furniture sets.

  • Daybeds, outdoor sofas, and lounge chairs.

  • Decking, pergolas, and fences.

  • Poolside and relaxation areas.

Acacia wood brings a sense of calm and relaxation, making it perfect for “outdoor living” spaces that connect home and nature.


5. Standard Processing of Acacia Wood

To ensure long-term durability and consistent quality, acacia wood typically undergoes a detailed processing cycle:

  1. Kiln Drying – Reduces moisture to 10–12%, minimizing warping or shrinkage.

  2. Preservation Treatment – Oils or eco-friendly chemicals are applied to protect against termites and mould.

  3. Sanding and Coating – Surfaces are polished and sealed with protective finishes such as oil, PU, or UV coating.

  4. Proper Storage – Wood is stored in cool, dry areas, away from direct sunlight and ground contact.

Each step is essential to maintain structural integrity and ensure the wood performs well for furniture applications.


6. Current Market Prices for Acacia Wood

Type of Acacia Wood Average Price (per m³)
Round logs 1,500,000 – 2,000,000 VND
Kiln-dried sawn timber 4,000,000 – 6,000,000 VND
Finger-jointed or laminated panels 8,000,000 – 10,000,000 VND

Prices vary depending on tree age, quality grade, and treatment process.
Overall, acacia remains one of the most cost-effective natural hardwoods, offering excellent quality and durability compared to higher-priced species like teak, oak, or mahogany.


7. Is Acacia Wood Durable?

Yes. When properly processed and maintained, acacia wood is remarkably durable.
Its dense structure and natural oils give it impressive resistance to decay and insects. When sealed with outdoor oil or varnish, it withstands both sunlight and humidity for years without significant deterioration.

Unlike synthetic materials such as plastic or composite, acacia wood offers a more organic and sustainable feel, ageing gracefully over time and retaining its natural beauty.

8. Conclusion

Acacia wood is an intelligent choice for homeowners and designers who value natural materials that combine aesthetic appeal, durability, and sustainability.
From indoor furniture to outdoor structures, it enhances any space with warmth and timeless beauty.

With responsible sourcing and proper treatment, acacia wood is not only a popular and affordable material but also a sustainable solution that supports the future of eco-friendly furniture design.