You do not mention whether you wooden wall will be painted or stained wood. Either way, there paint products you can use to properly seal and protect the wood either way. You should visit your local paint store and tell them what you are trying to do and see what products they recommend.

Is there a base trim there? Is it some sort of rubber base or ceramic? I've attached a base I think would look nice, it is taller and has some detail. I also attached a door casing that is wider but clean lines. White trim always works. Compare your white to your floor tile, there are hundreds of versions of white- yellow white, grey white, beige white, greenish white, you get the idea. Try and stay in a similar feel. If your floor has a grey feel, look at more true whites or greyish whites,

You can use any seasoned natural hard wood like teak , sal wood etc. Another alternative is acacia wood (cost effective)!

What is this space used for? Do you need brass to protect the walls? Who will polish the brass?