Heyho,
I am from Germany and currently moving into a new apartment. I am going to throw out my old desk as it is too low and want to upgrade to a height adjustable one.
While IKEA has some options I wonder whether others have recommendations for solid brands to check out.
You are right. I just wondered whether you have to take specific wood or apply a specific lacquer layer. Also, if you want a hole for cable management, you have to have a hole saw.
Do whatever you like, you don’t have to use anything specific. I just used regular wood for years.
Just don’t go with soft wood, as you will get many dents and scratches into your desk. But apart from that, it’s pretty straight forward. The frame will provide the support needed to prevent the wooden surface from sagging.