Laminates are tried-and-true utilitarian surfaces that come in almost every color imaginable - including simulated woods. If budget is your primary concern, a standard laminate will outlast carpet or cloth wall treatments, which are more vulnerable to gouging, tearing, and nefarious odor retention. You can choose from hundreds of patterns and colors from several different laminate manufacturers such as FORMICA and WILSONART brands.

Wood veneers are not all created equal. The most resilient product is resin-hardened wood. Manufactured with natural wood veneers that are infused - not simply coated - with a protective melamine resin, resin-hardened wood provides superior scratch and abrasion resistance. If design consistency mandates the use of wood in a high-traffic vehicle, consider a pre-engineered system that allows you to specify wood for the upper panels only. Stainless steel panels are a better choice for the "impact zones" (handrail panels, lower panels, and kick plates). This robust configuration is abuse resistant, and if wood damage occurs, it will be more economical to replace smaller panels.

Stainless steel has universal appeal; it's durable, affordable, and needs little maintenance. While commodity stainless steel panels have long been an option for standard cabs, pre-engineered systems can incorporate textured or patterned stainless steel panels in various configurations - improving the visual impact without dramatically increasing the price. Although traditional satin and polished finishes may be retouched in the field, textures and patterns can effectively conceal fingerprinting, minor scratches, and other signs of use; and mechanically applied finishes actually strengthen the surface of the steel. Stainless steel is the preferred material for elevators that service cafeterias, healthcare providers, laboratories, or other venues with stringent hygiene standards.

Composite metals are made by casting real metal granules in a tough polymer matrix. These highly detailed sculptural surfaces have the character and appearance of warm and cool metals, and can be used to complement almost any environment. Rugged enough for impact zones, the light weight of these castings makes them ideal for elevator interiors. These materials are often used by Architects and interior designers to create a stunning look.

A Brass or Bronze finish combines a classic and traditional look with a reputation for hardness, durability and corrosion resistance. While this finish does require more maintenance and comes at an additional expense, it is an easy way to quickly add class and style to an elevator interior.