Kitchen Cabinets: Choosing the Perfect Finish

When it comes to designing your dream kitchen, you're likely thinking about colour, size, style, and handle options. But let's not forget about the finish – that final touch that can completely transform your kitchen cabinets. Your contractor might ask, "matte or gloss?" But don't brush it off, because your choice can make a world of difference, regardless of the cabinet material.

Let's dive into the world of kitchen cabinet finishes and unveil the secrets to picking the one that will bring your kitchen to life.

Cracking the Finish Code:

Your kitchen cabinets might be dressed in solid wood, MD, particle board, or ply, but guess what? The magic lies in the finish. Whether you're into oil-sealed timber doors or vibrant polyurethane shades, your options are endless.

But, before you make your choice, remember you're in control of the final look. You get to pick between gloss, matte, or semi-gloss finishes. Let's break down the pros and cons of each:

High Gloss:

Imagine sleek, reflective surfaces that catch the light and make your kitchen come alive. That's the charm of high-gloss finish, a timeless choice that's making a comeback. This type of finish is more suited to contemporary style, especially when paired with flat cabinet fronts. This style is not recommended for more traditional style kitchens.

Pros of High Gloss:

·       It reflects light to make your space look brighter and more spacious, making it the perfect choice for smaller kitchens.

·       Lighter shades reflect more light, making white gloss kitchens a hot favourite.

·       Easy to clean – a non-scratch microfiber cloth Is all you will need.

Cons of High Gloss:

·       Be ready for fingerprints and scratches – they're more noticeable on high gloss surfaces (although they are easy to clean off).

·       Dark colours might highlight imperfections, so choose wisely.

·       Reflective material can bounce colours around, changing their appearance.

Tips for High Gloss:

·       Reflections are more noticeable on overhead cabinets.

·       Mix high-gloss overhead cabinets with matte or semi-gloss lower ones.

·       Dark shades are better at eye level, light shades below – fingerprints will be less noticeable!

Matte:

In the world of kitchen finishes, matte is the calm after the gloss storm. No light bouncing, just a serene, flat look that fits both traditional and contemporary styles.

Pros of Matte:

·       Imperfections like fingerprints are much less visible.

·       Colours appear consistent and even – no light trickery here.

Cons of Matte:

·       Less light reflection means a more muted appearance.

·       Cleaning might be a tad trickier, but it's still manageable.

Tips for Matte:

·       Routed fronts love matte finishes in traditional kitchens.

·       Consider a simple routed profile for depth and interest.

·       Mix colours or textures to keep it dynamic.

Semi-Gloss:

Can't decide between gloss and matte? Semi-gloss is a great balance! It's like the middle ground that offers the best of both worlds.

Pros of Semi-Gloss:

·       Reflects light without overwhelming like high gloss.

·       Fewer reflections mean a consistent colour appearance.

·       Easy to clean, just like gloss surfaces.

Satin:

When it comes to kitchen cabinet finishes, Satin offers a unique blend of style and practicality. It strikes a balance between the reflective charm of high gloss and the understated elegance of matte. Consider these points when contemplating a satin finish for your cabinets:

Pros of Satin:

·       Conceals Imperfections. Unlike high gloss, satin is forgiving when it comes to fingerprints and minor scratches.

·       Versatile Style. It complements both traditional and contemporary kitchen designs, offering flexibility in your overall aesthetic.

·       Subtle Elegance. Satin finish provides a soft, velvety sheen that adds a touch of sophistication to your kitchen.

Cons of Satin:

·       Less Light Reflection. While it doesn't have the same level of reflectivity as high gloss, it still provides a gentle glow to your space.

·       Maintenance. While it's easier to maintain than high gloss, it may require slightly more attention than matte finishes.

Tips for Satin:

·       Pair with Complementary Finishes. Consider using satin finish on your upper cabinets and combine it with matte or semi-gloss on lower ones for a balanced look.

·       Play with Contrasting Colours. Satin finish allows you to experiment with a wider range of colours without the risk of overwhelming the space.

·       Embrace Texture. Consider combining satin finish with textured cabinet fronts for added depth and visual interest.

Whether you're team gloss, mad for matte, or somewhere in-between, remember that the finish you choose will set the tone for your kitchen.

Curious to Explore Your Options? We're here to guide you through the world of finishes, helping you pick the one that brings your vision to life. Let's chat and craft a kitchen that's uniquely yours!