That’s a must-ask question 👍 — because the finish you choose (laminate, veneer, acrylic, PU, etc.) directly drives the cost per sq.ft., and many designers in Delhi NCR don’t show clear alternatives unless you push for it.

A professional designer should always give you side-by-side options with pricing so you can balance look, durability, and budget.

✅ How Alternatives Work (Delhi NCR, 2025)

Table of Contents

🔹 Laminate (Budget-Friendly)

Cost: ₹80–₹150/sq.ft (shutter finish only).
Pros: Durable, easy maintenance, huge variety, economical.
Cons: Looks less premium, edges can peel if poorly finished.
👉 Best for kitchens, wardrobes, kids’ rooms.

🔹 Veneer (Premium, Natural Wood Look)

Cost: ₹200–₹350/sq.ft + polishing cost.
Pros: Real wood grains, warm & luxury feel, timeless.
Cons: Needs polishing, higher maintenance, sensitive to scratches/water.
👉 Best for living rooms, master bedrooms, luxury highlights.

🔹 Acrylic (Glossy, Modern Finish)

Cost: ₹250–₹400/sq.ft.
Pros: Rich gloss, vibrant colours, UV & moisture resistant.
Cons: Shows fingerprints/dust, can scratch, repair is costly.
👉 Best for kitchens & wardrobes where modern/glossy look is desired.

🔹 PU Finish (Luxury Paint Finish)

Cost: ₹300–₹450/sq.ft.
Pros: Seamless, custom colours, high-end finish.
Cons: Expensive, longer lead time, can chip.
👉 Best for statement walls, designer wardrobes, luxury kitchens.

✅ What You Should Ask Your Designer

Can you give me BOQ with 3 finish options (laminate, veneer, acrylic/PU) side by side?
How much extra will veneer/PU cost compared to laminate?
Can I mix finishes (laminate inside, veneer outside)?
Do your 3D renders show actual finishes for comparison?
Will you provide sample boards so I can feel the textures?

⚠️ Red Flags

Designer only shows one finish 🚩 and says “this is best” (often higher margin).
No cost comparison → you realize too late that veneer/PU made project 20–30% costlier.
Only catalogue images, no real material samples.

✅ Pro Tip

Best strategy in Delhi NCR:
- Laminate for kitchens, kids’ rooms, inside wardrobes.
- Acrylic/PU for highlights (kitchen shutters, TV units).
- Veneer for living & master bedroom feature areas.
This gives a premium look without blowing budget.

👉 Do you want me to create a Finish Cost Comparison Matrix (Laminate vs Veneer vs Acrylic vs PU) in Excel — with columns for cost, durability, look, maintenance, best use — so you can demand the same structured comparison from your designer?

Do you give alternatives (laminate vs veneer vs acrylic) with pricing?