Don't let the higher cost of BB over MDF scare you. If you get some BB that's nicely surfaced (no footballs) and work carefully with it, there's no need for veneer. I figure you'll need at least 30 sq ft of veneer plus 20% waste to cover the Towers and that can cost you about $100. Sometimes, it's worth paying extra for the BB to avoid the cost of veneer. You'll just have to think of a creative way to work with the edging, either hiding it or incorporating it into your design. Also, I find the birch can do a passable imitation of cherry if finished properly.