When planning a kitchen renovation, selecting the right kitchen cabinet finish is crucial. The finish you choose can dramatically alter the look and feel of your space, regardless of the cabinet material. This guide will explore the advantages and disadvantages of high gloss and matt finishes, and how they can impact your contemporary-style kitchen.
High Gloss Kitchen Cabinets
High gloss kitchen cabinets are a popular choice, especially for contemporary-style kitchens with flat cabinet fronts. Their shiny, light-reflecting surface is a key reason for their widespread appeal, particularly in white gloss kitchens.
Advantages:
Light Reflection: High gloss cabinets bounce light around the room, making spaces feel larger and more open. This is especially beneficial in smaller kitchens or when using darker colours.
Easy Cleaning: The smooth surface of high gloss cabinets makes them easy to wipe clean, ideal for busy households.
Modern Aesthetic: High-gloss kitchen cabinet finish creates a sleek, contemporary look that’s perfect for modern kitchen designs.
Disadvantages:
Visible Imperfections: Fingerprints, scratches, and dirt are more noticeable on high gloss surfaces, especially in darker colours.
Potential Colour Cast: The reflective nature of high gloss can lead to colour reflections from nearby surfaces, potentially altering the perceived colour of your cabinets.
Pro Tip for High Gloss Cabinets: Consider using high gloss finishes on upper cabinets and matt or semi-gloss on lower cabinets to minimise fingerprints at lower levels.
Matt Kitchen Cabinets
Matt finish cabinets don’t reflect light, giving them a flat appearance. They’re versatile, suiting both traditional and contemporary kitchen styles.
Advantages:
Hides Imperfections: Fingerprints, scratches, and other marks are less noticeable on matt surfaces.
Consistent Colour Appearance: The lack of light reflection results in a more uniform colour across all cabinet surfaces.
Timeless Appeal: Matt’s kitchen cabinet finish works well in various kitchen styles, from traditional to modern.
Disadvantages:
Doesn’t Enhance Space: Matt finishes don’t reflect light, so they won’t help make a space feel larger.
Slightly Harder to Clean: The matt finishes have lesser smooth surface, making them a bit more challenging to clean compared to high gloss.
Matt black kitchen cabinets have gained popularity in recent years, offering a bold, sophisticated look that works well in contemporary designs.
Factors to Consider When Selecting High Gloss or Matt Kitchen Cabinet Finish
Room Size and Lighting: High gloss can help brighten and visually expand smaller or darker kitchens.
Maintenance Preferences: If you prefer less frequent cleaning, a matt kitchen cabinet finish might be more suitable.
Kitchen Style: If you’re aiming for an ultra-modern look, select a high gloss finish. But if you want a more subdued, timeless aesthetic, choose a matt finish.
Flooring: You might want to contrast your cabinet finish with your flooring (e.g., matt cabinets with glossy floors).
Colour choice: Lighter colours in high gloss can maximise light reflection, while darker colours in matt can create a sophisticated ambience.
Ideas for Selecting Kitchen Cabinet Finish
White Gloss Kitchen: A white gloss kitchen can create a bright, spacious feel. Pair with a quartz waterfall island for a luxurious touch.
Grey Gloss Kitchen Cabinets: Light grey high gloss kitchen cabinet finish can make a space feel larger. Consider adding under-cabinet lighting to enhance the glossy effect.
Matt Black Kitchen: Matt black kitchen cabinets paired with natural wood elements can create a striking, modern look.
Matt Grey Handleless Kitchen: For a minimalist aesthetic, consider matt grey cabinets in a handleless design.
Matt White Kitchen: A matt white kitchen can create a calm, soothing atmosphere. Pair with wood-tone countertops for a harmonious look.
When undertaking a kitchen renovation, the choice between high gloss and matt finishes can significantly impact the final result. High gloss kitchen cabinets offer a sleek, modern look and can help brighten and visually expand your space. They’re particularly effective in smaller kitchens or when using darker colours. White gloss kitchens, in particular, can create a striking, contemporary aesthetic.
On the other hand, a matt kitchen cabinet finish, including popular options like matt black kitchen cabinets, offers a more subdued look that hides imperfections well. They’re versatile and are perfect adornment for both traditional and contemporary-style kitchens.
Ultimately, the choice between high gloss and matt depends on your style, practical needs, and the overall design of your kitchen. Consider factors like room size, lighting, maintenance preferences, and your desired aesthetic when making your decision. Whether you opt for the reflective sheen of a high gloss finish or the subtle elegance of a matt finish, your choice of cabinet finish will play a crucial role in defining the character of your newly renovated kitchen.
If you need help with your kitchen renovation or selecting the right finish for your kitchen cabinets, contact Paradise Kitchens at 02 9757 4400 or get a quote online, and our expert team will be happy to assist you.
