Why choose a luxury bespoke kitchen?

The kitchen is at the heart of every home.

Used day and night for everything from cooking and entertaining to working and workouts – there is no one-size-fits-all.

With that in mind, a kitchen design needs to be fine-tuned to suit the lifestyle of you and your family – both now and in the future. Which is where our luxury kitchens come in.

Allow the team at Designer Kitchens to explain why you should consider a bespoke kitchen design.

Make your house a home with a bespoke kitchen

Designing your own kitchen is a fantastic way to add style and personality to your home.

Make a stand-alone statement or opt for features that complement the décor used throughout the rest of the property to ensure a cohesive look.

Either way, a bespoke kitchen design allows you to create a space that’s perfect for how you and your family enjoy using the kitchen.

For example, if you’re the designated chef of the house, you can make sure there’s enough room for you to prepare, cook and plate up meals.

If your kitchen is primarily used for entertaining, you can make maximum use of space to ensure everyone can move around safely without bumping into each other. You may also decide to include a wine fridge or a spacious island for keeping your cocktail shaker, drinks and snacks.

The benefits of creating a bespoke kitchen design

Perfect fit

Struggling to find standard kitchen cabinets and units to fit your space?

A bespoke kitchen is the perfect solution for kitchens that are an unusual shape or size. Every aspect is made-to-measure and designed to suit the layout of your room. This means any challenging installation requirements can be overcome and everything will slot into place nicely – ensuring no wasted space.

Custom design

Most people take inspiration from other kitchens for their own. However, there are bound to be certain aspects that you don’t like or aren’t quite right for your space or family needs.

The beauty of bespoke kitchen design is that, whether you want a traditional country kitchen or a modern open-plan layout, you get to control everything – from the size and shape of your island to the type of lighting, work surfaces and even the style of handles for your kitchen units.

Excellent craftsmanship

With a bespoke luxury kitchen, you can trust that the quality will be exemplary. After all, every product is specifically designed and manufactured for your home, using the highest quality materials.

Your kitchen will be built to last – making it a long-term, and hugely worthwhile, investment for your home.

Design your dream luxury kitchen today

Here at Designer Kitchens, we have specialised in bespoke kitchens in Hertfordshire for long enough to appreciate that redesigning your space is a huge decision – and one that you want to get right.

That’s why our team take a relaxed approach and will never rush you into making any decisions.

We aim to make the whole process as straightforward and enjoyable as possible, arranging an initial consultation to get to know you, and your ideal plans for the space, before producing a design for your luxury bespoke kitchen.

By designing your own kitchen, you’re guaranteed to love everything about it – not just the way it looks but its functionality too!

So, why not get in touch with us on 01707 650 565? We’d love to hear from you.

The benefits of true handleless kitchens

When it comes to kitchen design, there are countless options to choose from. One trend that has been gaining in popularity in recent years is the handleless kitchen.

Handleless kitchens offer a sleek and contemporary look, making them a popular choice for those looking to add a splash of luxury and style to their homes.

However, not all handleless kitchens are created equally. There are various designs that each have their own advantages and drawbacks, which make them more suited to different tastes and lifestyles.

In this blog post, we will explore the benefits of true handleless kitchens and why Designer Kitchens is the best company to provide them.

 

What is a true handleless kitchen?

A true handleless kitchen is a kitchen design where there are no visible handles or knobs on the cabinetry.

Instead, the doors and drawers are opened by simply pushing or pulling on the edges. This creates a seamless and minimalist look, as there are no interruptions to the smooth lines of the cabinetry.

 

What is the difference between a true handleless kitchen and other types?

The other two main types of handleless kitchen are J-pull and push-to-open. These are similar to true handleless kitchens in that the doors and drawers are opened without the use of visible handles.

However, J-Pull handleless kitchens feature a small lip (or J-pull) on the edge of the door or drawer that allows it to be opened. Meanwhile, push-to-open handleless kitchens feature a small button or mechanism on the edge of the door or drawer that, when pressed, causes the door or drawer to open.

True handleless kitchens have several advantages over J-pull and push-to-open kitchen cabinets. These include:

Aesthetics: Whilst J-Pull and push-to-open handleless kitchens do not have handles as such, they do still feature visible mechanisms. True handleless kitchens do not have any visible hardware whatsoever, making them the most seamless and contemporary option for handleless kitchen design.

Easy to clean: True handleless kitchens are easier to clean because there are fewer nooks and crannies for dirt and grease to accumulate. On the other hand, J-pull and push-to-open handleless kitchens have mechanisms that can collect dirt.

Ergonomic: True handleless kitchens are also more ergonomic than J-pull and push-to-open handleless kitchens. The absence of handles or knobs means that the doors and drawers can be opened with a simple push or pull. This makes them easier for people of all ages and abilities to use.

 

Why choose Designer Kitchens for true handleless kitchen design?

As a leading provider of true handleless kitchens, here at Designer Kitchens we are passionate about customer service.

When you get in touch with us, our team of expert kitchen designers will work with you to create a luxury kitchen that is tailored to your specific needs and preferences.

We use only the highest quality materials, the latest technology, and the most skilled craftspeople to create our true handleless kitchens. This ensures that they are not only beautiful, but also functional and long-lasting.

Our true handleless kitchens come in a wide range of finishes and colours, allowing you to create a kitchen that is truly unique.

In addition, we are very proud of our comprehensive after-sales service, and will do everything in our power to ensure that you are completely satisfied with your new kitchen. Our helpful staff are always on hand to help with any issues or questions you may have.

 

Get in touch

For more information about our range of true handleless kitchens, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with our friendly and knowledgeable team.

You can give us a call on 01707 650565 or send us a message using our contact form for a swift response.

Pros and cons of quartz worktops for your kitchen

Quartz worktops have gained popularity in recent years due to their durability, ease of maintenance, and luxurious appearance.

In this blog post, we will explore the pros and cons of installing quartz worktops in your home, and why they are often considered to be superior to other materials on the market.

 

Pros of quartz worktops

Durability: One of the biggest advantages of quartz worktops is their durability. Made from a combination of natural quartz and resin, quartz worktops are highly resistant to scratches, stains, and heat. This makes them ideal for high-traffic areas and for those who like to cook or entertain frequently.

Low Maintenance: Quartz worktops are also easy to clean and maintain. Unlike other materials, such as granite, they do not require sealing or polishing. Simply wipe them down with a damp cloth and mild detergent to keep them looking like new.

Design flexibility: Quartz worktops come in a wide range of colours and patterns, making it easy to find the perfect match for your kitchen or bathroom. This design flexibility allows you to create a unique and luxurious look for your home.

 

Cons of quartz worktops

There are a couple of disadvantages to quartz worktops, which it’s important to factor into your decision making process. However, these are far outweighed by the benefits in the long run. Here are the downsides to quartz worktops:

Cost: Some homeowners may be put off by the cost of quartz worktops. As a premium product, they are generally associated with luxury and high-end kitchens, and tend to be more expensive than other materials such as laminate.

There are a couple of reasons why quartz worktops tend to cost a little more than other materials.

Firstly, quartz is a natural mineral that must be mined and processed, which can be a costly procedure. Also, as quartz is a heavy material, it can be expensive to transport.

Additionally, the manufacturing of quartz worktops involves combining natural quartz and resin, which are mixed together and then formed into slabs. The slabs are then cut and polished to the desired thickness and shape. This is a labour-intensive process requiring skilled workers and specialised equipment.

Heavy: The weight of quartz worktops not only makes them expensive to transport, but can cause problems during installation. This is because they can put extra stress on the supporting structure of the cabinets.

It’s important to consider the weight of quartz worktops when planning a kitchen remodel and to ensure that the supporting structure is adequate to handle the weight. This can include reinforcing the cabinet structure, using additional brackets or supports, or even reinforcing the floor joists.

 

Why choose Designer Kitchens for your quartz worktops?

Here at Designer Kitchens, we specialise in the manufacture, supply, and installation of quartz worktops. We have a wide range of colours and patterns to choose from, allowing our customers to create a unique, luxury kitchen.

We are committed to quality, using only the highest quality materials, and employing skilled and experienced craftsmen to ensure that our quartz worktops are made to the highest standard.

Our customer service is second to none. When you get in touch with our experienced team, we will work closely with you to understand your individual needs and preferences, helping you to create the perfect look for your home.

If you’d like to discuss your requirements with an expert, give us a call on 01707 650565. Alternatively, you can send us a message using our online contact form and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible.

Gloss or Matt Kitchens: How to Decide Which Is Best for You and Your Home

For some homeowners, choosing between high gloss and matt kitchens is an easy decision. Most often, people have an immediate preference for the qualities and the look of one over the other.

However, this isn’t the case for many of us. Take for example your inclination based solely on the looks of both finishes. So which would you pick, high gloss or matt? How would you determine which one works best for your kitchen?

High-gloss kitchens were a staple in many homes for years. However, the market has shifted in favour of the more dramatic and subdued matt finish. This is attributed to the growing number of manufacturers that have made matt accessible to a wide range of homeowners, not just in high-end homes.

Both finish types work great in any kitchen style, from the traditional to the contemporary to the minimalist. Timeless in appearance, they both form the basis of visually stunning designs. They’re highly durable and easy to clean.

So how do you choose between these two finishes?

High Gloss Kitchens

To make the most out of your investment, opt for high-quality gloss. Remember that the colours of the gloss on your kitchen would slight vary depending on the reflected light.

For example, units at eye level receive and reflect most of the light entering the space. Additionally, this glossy surface also could reflect the other visible colours in the room.

So, when deciding which coloured gloss to go for, it is recommended to stick to one colour palette. In the event that you are stuck with which colour to use, seek the advice of experienced interior decorators in order to achieve the effect you are going for.

By doing so, you’ll be able to fully achieve and appreciate the stunning beauty of a high gloss finish.

 

Easy to clean. One of gloss’ many advantages is that it’s easy to clean thanks to its shiny surface. All you need is a non-abrasive cloth and some water for those common everyday kitchen stains and smudges.

However, for tougher stains, avoid the use of bleach as this could damage the glossy surface. Simply use lukewarm water and mild detergent and some elbow grease, but be very careful not to damage the finish.

Makes the room appear larger and more open. Gloss was made popular by small kitchen spaces. Because light is reflected into the space, the kitchen would appear larger and brighter. Additionally, the lighter the colour of the gloss finish, the brighter the room would be.

There’s no need anymore to tear down walls and have an extension built, saving you money in the long run.

The Drawback  

Although not necessarily major, some homeowners tend to avoid gloss because can make fingerprints and other imperfections more visible on the surface. If you’re not so keen on cleaning every now and then, use gloss on higher cabinet doors, out of reach of greasy hands.

Colour Choices

High gloss is available in a wide array of colours, from white to grey to darker tones, making it easy for you to match your existing wall colour with any available gloss colour.

This finish is also available in different materials and of course prices, from gloss acrylic, gloss laminate, gloss glass to gloss lacquer. Remember that these materials have different manufacturing processes, to create varying surface looks.

How much will be light reflected depends on the material’s finish. It also depends on how it was made.

That’s why you should think about how “glossy” you want your kitchen to look.

Matt Kitchens

Similar to gloss, the quality of the finish is one of the significant requirements for successfully achieving a beautiful matt finish. With high-quality materials, a matt finish can result in the most dramatic looks possible, a kitchen with character and elegance.

As its name suggests, matt absorbs the light, rather than reflect it in the surface. This results in a more muted look. Some perceive this a dull or boring, while others consider this as an understated elegance.

The lack of shine doesn’t mean matt is inferior to gloss. On its own, it has certain qualities that interior designers and architects consider noteworthy.

 

An even colour. Since matt isn’t dependent on light in maintaining its definitive hue, it features a solid colour, even on all sides. In other words, regardless of which angle you view it or if there’s low lighting, there is colour consistency.

Hides imperfections. Because of the lack of reflected light, fingerprints, smudges and stains and other imperfections are not as visible compared with gloss. Note that this doesn’t mean stains or fingerprints are not there. They are there! Not only as clear.

Matt finish is also scratch-resistant and durable.

The Drawback

Because light will not be reflected into the room, but rather absorbed, you might want to reconsider matt for small kitchen spaces. However, you can still utilise white hues since this still contribute to the space appearing light.

Grey tones are the next popular colour contemporary kitchens with limited spaces.

Colour Choices

Just like gloss, matt is also offered in a wide range of colours, materials and prices. It also works well in combination with other textures and even high gloss.

The Verdict

So which is better—matt kitchens or high gloss kitchens?

Ultimately, and many have pointed this out, it all boils down to personal preference. But take into consideration your kitchen size and if cleaning is a bother to you.

It isn’t about what’s best for you, but what is practically right for you.

If you’re still unsure, or would like to discuss your options further, get in touch with us today.

Pros & Cons of Matt Kitchen Cabinets and Worktops

Matt kitchen cabinets and worktops have become a huge trend in both contemporary and traditional homes. However, although they may be popular, they may not be the right type of finish for your home kitchen.

It’s common to see new trends popping up from time to time and taking the market by storm. Then you’d think that they’re the perfect way to go, only to find out that you’re not as happy with what you chose.

This is normal since it’s hard to resist trends especially when they are splashed around in picture-perfect galleries all over.

Are chic matt worktops and cabinets ideal for your kitchen?

While a matt finish comes with its advantages, it also comes with a few disadvantages. When making a life-changing decision, it’s wise to familiarise yourself with the pros and of course the cons so you’ll be prepared with any potential drawbacks. Additionally, you will have a chance at picking another option that could possibly work better than the first option.

So below, we’ve round up the pros and cons of matt kitchen cabinets and worktops.

The Pros:

First, the good news.

Although the matt finish has been around for a while, they started making waves just about five years or so ago. Interior decorators consider them “modern” and chic, individual and fresh.

Matt is perfect for contemporary living and comes in a wide variety of colours that can easily be designed according to your space.

One huge advantage matt has over a high gloss kitchen finish is that the surface of the cabinets will not as easily show any imperfections, smudges, stains or fingerprints. This is all thanks to the absence of light being reflected on the surface. A matt finish absorbs light instead of reflecting it on the surface.

Hence, this leads to another advantage—you will not clean the surface as often compared with high gloss.

Additionally, matt easily blends well with your already existing high gloss kitchen cabinets to add a little bit more texture and character to the space. Matt worktops and cabinets are great for larger kitchen and open floor designs because they add a more expansive feel.

The Cons:

And there’s the other side of the spectrum. Matt finish has some pretty straightforward cons.

Firstly, cleaning might not be as easy as cleaning a glossy surface. Although imperfections might not easily show, but when they do, it will be more difficult to get rid of them.

It’s not uncommon to leave streaks when cleaning matt surfaces. Additionally, these surfaces tend to absorb the stain, making cleaning more difficult.

In terms of making your kitchen space larger, matt may not be for you. If your kitchen doesn’t have ample natural lighting or if there are only a handful of windows where natural light can pass through, you might want to reconsider picking matt as a finish.

Space could feel cramped since light will not be reflected off the surface but instead absorbed.

Making the Decision

Planning for your kitchen’s design is more than just mere appearances. You have to consider function and practicality as well.

Yes, matt cabinets and worktops are trendy options. However, they’re not for every household.

You have to be realistic, honest and make sense of your lifestyle and kitchen use.

So to help you with your decision-making, here are 6 questions you need to ask yourself if you do however set your mind on a matt finish.

6 Questions to Consider When Designing a Matt Kitchen

Traditional or Modern?

On of matt’s strongest elements is that it can be used in almost any kitchen style, whether traditional or modern or even somewhere in between.

Contrasting or Uniform Cabinets and Worktops?

Another thing to consider is if you want to opt for a uniform look for your kitchen. This means a uniform matt effect across all cabinetry and worktops. Or if you want to mix matt with some bit of gloss or semi-gloss.

Whichever option you choose, it works well. Gloss helps add a little bit of shine to the space and helps it make appear larger, thanks to the reflected light on the surface.

Likewise, you can make a real style statement by adding glossy doors or drawers in an otherwise matt space.

One way you can incorporate gloss is by placing it on upper kitchen cabinet doors. That way, the light will be reflected on the upper level while keeping greasy hands off your glossy surface. The matt finish will be positioned on the lower kitchen cabinets doors. A complete blend of style and practicality.

What Is Your Colour Pallet?

Remember that light drawers and cupboard help make the space feel larger and more open. This is ideal for small kitchen spaces.

Greys, navy blues and other darker shades are ideal for larger kitchen spaces since they help make the room feel very sophisticated and classic.

Meanwhile, to create a focal point to the space, opt for colours on particular units, like kitchen islands where you can make your own statement.

Glossy or Matt Floors?

One of the most neglected design areas of the kitchen is flooring. Many find it to rarely make any statement. Nothing can be further from the truth.

A well-designed kitchen flooring could help enhance the overall design of your space and help draw in all elements of design. That being said, it’s important to factor in whether you’ll go for a matt or glossy kitchen flooring.

Tiles are often used for gloss flooring, which looks striking against matt cabinets and worktops. On the other hand, matt tiling and wood are more subtle and often easy to maintain in the long run.

How Will You Decorate the Walls?

Matt paint sits well with any design and is a popular choice for almost any household kitchen. To break up the kitchen’s design, add a gloss effect on the walls.

Glossy tiles help make the room appear brighter and lighter and helps draw attention to a specific area if that’s what you are going for.

What about the Appliances?

Modern-day appliances are also available in both glossy and matt finishes, from fridges, ovens, to cookers. However, the effect will depend on how much you want the appliances to blend or stand out in the overall design.

The Bottom Line

Matt kitchens are stunningly beautiful, dramatic and full of character. It’s a trend that’s enjoying its increasing popularity. Not only is it applicable on almost all kitchen sizes, but also it can blend with other finishes to create a striking space that you’ll definitely love spending time in.

Whether you’ve got your heart set on a chic matt kitchen, or want to explore your options, get in touch. Simply fill in our online form or call us on 01707 650565.

Top Tips in Choosing the Right Kitchen Cabinet Finish

There are a number of factors to consider when choosing kitchen cabinets—the colour, style, handles, size. But what about the finish? Most probably, your kitchen designer will ask you to decide which finish you prefer, be it matt or a high gloss kitchen finish.

But wait! You don’t have to be half-hearted with your reply.

If you’re unsure which one to pick, then we’re here to help.

The cabinet finish could dramatically alter the look of your kitchen and also set the mood, regardless of the cabinet’s material. Some even consider the cabinets as the backbone of the kitchen.

Surprised?

This is why choosing which cabinet finish requires a deep understanding of your household needs.

The following will be covered in this article:

  • The available finish
  • Advantages and disadvantages of each finish
  • Tips to make sure each finish will work best for your kitchen

Finish materials

Whether you chose medium-density fibreboard (MDF), particle board, solid wood doors or ply for your cabinets, there are a wide array of finishes you can use to achieve the functionality and look you are aiming for.

For example, an oil coating can be used for solid timber doors to achieve a country style kitchen. For a more durable finish, opt for a coloured or clear polyurethane. This ultimately falls into your preference.

Meanwhile, kitchen-specific paints from any brand can be used to paint manufactured boards like particle board or MDF. If not, you can also use two-pack polyurethane. A layer of laminate, wood veneer, melamine or vinyl wrap can also be used as finish for such doors. Again, this depends on your preference and the look you are going for.

However, regardless of material or coating, you still have to make a choice between matt, gloss and semi-gloss finish for the end product.

Which finish should you go for? This is the classic question faced by potential customers looking for the ideal finish for their kitchen.

Should you go for the flashy and extravagant flair of high gloss or opt for the more subdued, practical warmth of a matt?

Which should you prefer and why?

The following are advantages and disadvantages of each available option.

High gloss kitchen cabinet finish

What is a high gloss finish?

Somewhat understandably, a high gloss has a glossy and sleek finish. It reflects the light of the space at different angles, making it popular and the most requested finish since it became trending back in the 70s.

This type of finish is more suited for contemporary kitchen styles with flat cabinet fronts.

There are 4 factors that affect the strength and amount of reflected light:

  • Type of gloss used
  • Colour of gloss
  • Underlying material
  • Type of light illuminating the space

Depending on the materials or the supplier, others refer to a high gloss as 100% gloss or ultra-high gloss.

Advantages of a high gloss kitchen

A bigger space. What makes a high gloss so popular among homeowners is because it makes a limited space look bigger and wider than what it actually is.

This is thanks to the reflected light that produces a shiny finish, creating an illusion of a more open and bigger space. A high gloss finish is ideal for smaller kitchen spaces.

The bonus? You won’t be concerned with a darker colour since the shade will not absorb all the light in the room, but instead, reflect it.

The lighter the colour, the higher the reflection of light. Hence, white is the most popular colour choice.

However, take into account also the other colours of the room, since the reflective quality will bounce the light and could also reflect the other colours into those surfaces, often referred as a colour cast.

Colour cast could somewhat alter the overall appearance of the existing colour of the kitchen cabinets.

So don’t be surprised that there’s a slight alteration in colour on the surface if there are different colours in the nearby rooms such as the living area. This is especially visible on white glossy surfaces.

Easy cleaning. One other great advantage of high gloss is that it’s practically easy to clean. All you need is non-abrasive microfibre cloth to clean the glossy surface. Microfibre cloth will pick up any dust particles or marks on the surface.

For more stubborn stains, you can use a mild dishwashing soap, a non-abrasive sponge and warm water. Then gently clean the surface. Rinse, and dry with a clean non-abrasive microfibre cloth.

Disadvantages of a high gloss kitchen

If there are advantages, surely there are drawbacks.

Imperfections are more visible. This is undoubtedly one of the major drawbacks of a glossy finish. Since there is ample amount of reflected light on the surface, dirt, scratches, fingerprints and other marks will be more visible and noticeable.

However, as already mentioned, the surface is fairly easy to clean. So this might not be a major problem.

Now, when it comes to darker-coloured glossy finishes, tiny imperfections on the surface are more noticeable than on lighter-coloured glossy finishes. Thus, you might want to reconsider opting for a darker-coloured gloss if there are children in the house or if you’re concerned with constant cleaning.

Top tips

The reflection on light-coloured glossy cabinets will be more apparent on higher cabinets because they’re more at eye level compared with cabinets below benchtops.

If you want a high gloss finish but concerned about the visible imperfections or concerned about the kids in the house leaving marks on the surface, then opt for a high gloss finish on the upper cabinets. Then, use a semi-gloss or a matt finish for the lower ones.

Furthermore, if you would likely incorporate a darker-coloured gloss, consider mixing it with a lighter colour. The darker colour should be positioned at eye level where it will be out of reach from the sticky fingers of either adults or kids.

Then use a lighter colour for the lower cabinets, which will not easily show any imperfections.

Matt kitchen cabinet finish

What is a matt finish?

Although this is a relatively new trend, matt has become a popular choice in households over recent years. Unlike the gloss’ reflective surface, matt boasts a flat surface that absorbs light.

However, this doesn’t mean that it will appear dull, especially with lighter colours.

A matt finish is ideal for a country or traditional style kitchen cabinets with routed fronts. Yet, this finish could look just as great as gloss on contemporary style kitchen cabinets with flat fronts. In fact, it has grown highly popular in Europe than gloss.

Advantages of a matt kitchen

Less visible imperfections. One clear advantage matt has over gloss is the fact that scratches, fingerprints and other surface imperfections are not as visible because of the absence of reflected light.

However, this doesn’t mean that there are no marks. It only means that you don’t see them as clearly because light isn’t reflected on the surface.

Colour consistency. Another advantage of matt is the appearance of a consistent colour. Because of the absence of reflected light, colours in different areas of the cabinet fronts look the same.

Notice how the colour remains consistent in the image below.

 

Disadvantages of a matt kitchen

A muted look. Since light will be absorbed on the surface resulting in a more muted look, others may find matt dull and boring. However, it is far from that.

Matt exudes an understated elegance with solid colours in every angle. However, note that matt isn’t ideal for small kitchen spaces. Light will not be reflected and the space could feel cramped.

Cleaning might be so easy. Since the surface could be not as smooth as gloss, cleaning might be a challenge for some, but it doesn’t mean that it isn’t easy to clean. Like gloss, use a microfibre cloth for cleaning the surface.

If you plan on using a laminate material, make sure to carefully check the samples. Opt for a smooth flat finish.

Top tips

If you love the dramatic effect that is matt but concerned with the possibility of a boring look, then consider these ideas:

  • Opt for a cabinet door with a routed front like a Shaker-style picture below. The cabinet’s profile will cast varying shadows on the surface, making a feeling of interest and depth.
  • For contrast, mix two different colours.

Semi-gloss finish: Something in between

If you are still unconvinced whether to get a high gloss or a matt kitchen cabinet finish, then you can always settle for something in between—a semi-gloss finish.

A semi-gloss combines the advantages of both matt and high gloss finishes.

A semi-gloss has a certain degree of light-reflective qualities making light bounce around the kitchen space. Nevertheless, since the surface isn’t as highly reflective as high gloss, imperfections are not as visible and there is a more consistent colour.

The takeaway

So which finish would you choose? The hybrid semi-gloss, dramatic matt or the flashy high gloss kitchen cabinet finish?

Ultimately, it all depends on your preference. It’s not entirely about which finish is the best, but what is ideal for you and your family.

Always remember that quality is key, not the lowest in cost.

If you’re unsure as to which finish to go for, why not chat to our experts? Simply call us on 01707 650565 or fill in our online enquiry form.

Matt Kitchen Finish: Why and Why Not

The Ultimate Guide: Matt Kitchen

High gloss, gloss or matt kitchen finish? Which should I pick for my kitchen? This is the classic question faced by most homeowners when it comes to choosing one of the biggest style elements involved in completing your dream kitchen.

The kitchen’s finish can either make or break the design aspects. Which is why you’re often asked to make a huge, impactful decision. Should you opt for the pragmatic warmth and practical matt or the sleek and flashy high gloss?

People distinctly fall into one group or the other, although we can’t really say which one is better. They simply either find matt a more appealing option because of the calmness and serenity it offers or they prefer the flashy and visually stunning plays of light featured by high gloss.

However, this is no easy decision to make.

But don’t worry. For those who can’t decide or are inquiring for the first time, this blog will shed some light on why you should and should not go for a matt finish.

Here is what defines and distinguishes a matt finish.

Characteristics and qualities of a matt finish

High gloss kitchens used to be the more popular option when it comes to surface finishes, be it for commercial or residential. However, the current rising trend has shifted in favour of the matt.

Matt arose as a new trend a few years back but has stuck and evolved into a growing design trend. This shift in design trend could be attributed to its timeless appeal. In fact, a matt finish has been considered as the “epitome of sleek sophistication.”

This particular finish also boasts an understated, luxurious, elegant appearance. Also, a matt finish makes for a stunning minimalist kitchen, as shown in the awe-inspiring image below.

 

But what is matt really?

As its name implies, a matt finish differs in appearance from gloss. Its flat surface absorbs light rather than reflect it, making it appear muted. Others view matt as dull or boring because of the lack of shine. However, it definitely is not inferior to gloss and it possesses many qualities that make it a practical and an excellent choice for your kitchen.

One outstanding quality matt has over gloss is that it is durable and resistant to scratches. Additionally, it is fairly easy to clean, with the extra benefit of making fingerprints, smudges and other marks less visible on the surface.

Since matt surfaces are not dependent on light to maintain its definitive hue, it will have a more solid colour base compared with gloss. In other words, there is colour consistency throughout the surface. Viewed from all angles, you will have a solid colour, which means you have a smooth-looking kitchen regardless of the time of day, unlike gloss kitchens wherein lighting could dramatically change its appearance.

Moreover, doors with a matt finish will have a smoother texture with a continuous and even colour, ultimately creating sense of refined luxury. That’s why a matt finish is often dubbed as one of an understated elegance.

Like gloss, matt also comes in a wide variety of colour choices and works successfully in combination with other materials, colours and tones. As with gloss, white still is the most popular matt colour choice. Although it still makes a room feel lighter and brighter, it is but to a lesser degree due to its lack of reflective capability.

Another highly popular colour choice that’s second to white is grey. Not only does it make the space look modern and up to date, but also it adds a feeling of serenity. Mixed with handle-less cabinets, it creates an uncluttered seamless look for the kitchen.

 

Types of matt finish

Below are the 4 main types of matt kitchen finish available in the market, inclusive of their advantages and disadvantages.

1. Matt laminate kitchens. Edged on all of its sides, this type is either melamine-faced chipboard (MFC) or high-pressure laminate (HPL). It is inexpensive, hard-wearing and will never peel or, as the manufacturers refer to it, de-laminate.

However, the finish could be a little rough or bobbly. Also, there could be gaps in between the edges because of it being edged.

2. Silk matt laminate. This is the same as matt laminate but the only difference is that it makes use of a high-quality laminate. This is almost as smooth as the surface of a lacquered or painted matt door. A silk matt laminate is also inexpensive (costs almost the same as matt laminate), hard-wearing, has a smoother finish and also will never peel. Among its drawbacks are it’s not as appealing to customers as lacquered matt, and there are still gaps in the edges.

3. Matt lacquer kitchens or painted matt. Several coats of high-quality matt lacquer are used, resulting in an ultimately silky smooth finish. The advantage is that there are no visible edges, but the downside is that the cost is 20% higher than silk matt and matt laminate. Also, this is not as durable as the two previously mentioned types.

4. Foil or vinyl matt. This is the lowest quality available on the market. Vinyl, a thin layer of plastic, or foil (a paper mixed with resin) is wrapped around the MDF base. They’re very prone to de-laminating, where the surface peels away from the MDF base.

If you see bubbling around the edges, those are the first signs of de-lamination.

Why choose matt?

One of the reasons why a matt finish is highly sought-after by homeowners is because imperfections are not as noticeable on the surface.

This means fingerprint marks, scratches and others will not easily be noticed unlike in a glossy finish.

However, this doesn’t imply that there will be no fingerprints or other imperfections on the surface. It only means that because of the absence of light reflecting on the matt surface, you don’t see these imperfections as much. That being said, it’s highly ideal and practical for busy households where frequent cleaning might be an issue.

There is a definite consistency in colour. No areas will be lighter or darker because of the lack of reflection of light on the surface.

Notice how the colours look far more consistent in the picture below?

 

Why not choose matt?

Remember that since the surface will not reflect light but rather absorb it, it results in a more muted look. Also, if you have a small kitchen space, a matt finish will not help you make it appear larger or brighter, unlike a glossy finish, if that’s what you’re trying to achieve. The darker the colour, the smaller the room would feel.

Unlike gloss, matt may not be as smooth, so cleaning could be a bit challenging. However, cleaning is still fairly straightforward. Only use a microfibre cloth to keep the surface clean.

Questions to ask when designing a matt kitchens

Consider other design elements first. Most often, homeowners are undecided whether to go with a matt or a high gloss kitchen. This is almost always due to them not considering the other design features first, including the kitchen layout and what appliances will be in the kitchen, which in turn affects the cabinetry, which then affects the type of finish. It is safe to say that the decision will be a lot easier if other design features are also considered.

Lighting is another factor that needs to be carefully considered, which is inclusive of the number of lights and their placement in the kitchen, which in turn affects which complementary finish you choose. If you are planning on going with more lighting, opt for a matt finish to avoid a high beam effect.

Kitchen size.This is by far the most important factor when designing a matt kitchen—the size of your space. If you have a small space, you will need every design element in the book to create the illusion of space. This means a matt finish will do you no good, since light will not be reflected on the surface, but absorbed.

Cleaning Requirements. If you have kids at home who often open cupboard doors, then a high gloss finish might not be the most ideal option as it will easily show fingerprints and other smudges on the surface. This is something parents need to think about if they don’t want to keep on cleaning the surface and this where a matt finish becomes the practical choice.

A matt finish, however, doesn’t necessarily covers imperfection, but since it absorbs lights and it doesn’t have a reflective surface, imperfections are not easily noticeable. The drawback is that some laminates could have a certain texture that holds dirt and could prove challenging to clean. This can be avoided by choosing a material that has a smoother flat finish.

Traditional or modern. So what do you want to achieve, a contemporary look or a more traditional one? You have to ask yourself this before finally deciding which finish works best for your kitchen.

Whether matt is more suited to a traditional look is still up for debate, but it is in fact currently popular in modern cabinets. Contemporary cabinets look truer to colour and are able to achieve a more muted look compared with a high gloss finish. In a glossy finish, the cabinet fronts would often appear to be brighter or darker.

A matt finish also exudes a more professional feel that appears not only solid at every angle but also smooth. It can have that understated elegance to it that allows you to achieve a contemporary look minus the gloss. Additionally, if you want character and a more dramatic look, then this finish is ideal for you.

It is fairly safe to assume that a matt finish is applicable to both a modern and a traditional kitchen space or even somewhere in between.

The colour scheme. Although there are already a lot to consider, don’t forget the colour scheme for your kitchen. To make the room feel bigger and more open, opt for lighter coloured cupboards and drawers, which are highly recommended for small kitchens opting for a matt finish.

Meanwhile, greys, navy blue and other darker shades are more ideal for the larger kitchen. They provide a more sophisticated look. Also consider the colour of the kitchen island, which could stand as the room’s centrepiece or help tie the whole ensemble together.

Matt or glossy floors.It’s not just the cabinet doors that are matt or glossy. Flooring, the often neglected area, could help enhance the kitchen’s overall appeal. For a striking look, opt for a glossy flooring set against matt cabinets. For a more subtle look, matt and wood go well together and are easy to maintain in the long run.

Top Tips

If you are convinced matt is for you yet still on the fence because of the possibility of a muted, dull or boring look, then here are two ideas that could help you.

Create contrast. Mix two different matt colours in order to create not only contrast but also a point of interest. You’ll aiming for a matt kitchen that draws attention to the eye, yet not too overpowering.

Door type. How about a Shaker-style cabinet door? This style creates different shadows on the surface for more interest and a depth.

Opt for a cabinet door with an uncomplicated design and will not overpower the design aspects of your kitchen space, yet still adds an interesting character to the room.

 

Final Thoughts

Ideally, designers note that a matt kitchen finish is a perfect choice for a traditional, modern or a country kitchen style. In fact, matt finish cabinets are the currently popular in most areas of Europe compared with glossy units.

If you’re looking for a sophisticated and not too flashy design or themes for your kitchen, then a matt kitchen would be a fantastic choice. Not only is it practical, but also it is a beautiful finish that’s perfect for all areas of the kitchen and works easily well and uniformly across the space. It also can accentuate other design elements and statement pieces you may have.

However, the ultimate decision lies on your shoulders. Always remember that the finish you choose will ultimately affect the overall aesthetics and ambience of your home kitchen.

5 Creative Design Tips for Small Home Kitchens

The kitchen is the heart and hearth of the home, regardless of the size. So if you’re planning on a kitchen makeover but worried because of the available limited space, then think again.

There are tons of innovative ideas you can implement in your home kitchen that will make it feel and look bigger than what it actually is. For example, a lighter-coloured high gloss kitchen cabinet finish will definitely open up your space and make it look more modern.

Below are stunning features and helpful tips that can transform your small kitchen into a welcoming space that your family deserves.

Lighten up your kitchen

Like in the example above, use light colours to make the space feel larger. Dark colours make the room feel even smaller. Carefully consider your colour options for the cabinets and walls.

If you are unable to change the colour of the cabinets or walls and they happen to have a dark tone, consider updating instead your lighting. Install LED strips under the cabinets or shelves. These energy-efficient models will be adding an extra impact to your kitchen without leaving a big footprint.

Incorporate into your new décor scheme a lighter paint colour for the walls. If possible, opt for a high gloss kitchen finish for a contemporary updated look and feel to the space.

Ceiling-high cabinets for extra storage

De-clutter your counter by making use of stacked cabinets and open shelves. When there is limited space, the only way is to go up.

By adding extra shelving above the sink or the stovetop, you give yourself extra storage for storing dishes and other kitchen-related stuff. You can also use the extra shelves to display your precious china or other treasured items.

Just remember to not go overboard with it. The lesser items around, the bigger your kitchen will look.

A compact kitchen island

Many homeowners consider a kitchen island as a crucial component for entertaining guests, food prep and many more. But if you’re concerned that there isn’t enough space for an island, consider a compact one that can also double as a dining table.

Also, make use of rolling cart shelves for flexibility. This not only provides extra storage but also food prep space. This can also be moved out of the way when not needed.

Add mirrors

One of the hottest trends these days are mirrored cabinets and backsplashes. The mirrors create an illusion that the walls and cabinets continue into another dimension. This is one of the oldest tricks in the book. It opens up the kitchen and brings light.

Tall seating

If your kitchen space restricts you from having a full dining set, opt for stools lined along the side of the worktop or consider a high-top table. This creates a cosy breakfast or dining nook without having to sacrifice space.

Keep in mind that it isn’t about the space, but the way you utilise the existing space that you have. Creative solutions such as making use of high gloss kitchen finish to brighten up and modernise the space and open shelving do make an impact on how your kitchen looks and feels.

Pros and Cons of High Gloss Kitchen Tiles

For a contemporary décor, shiny high gloss kitchen tiles would look stunning, sophisticated and elegant. Imagine those European kitchen doors with smooth lacquer finish. They’re simply breathtaking.

Additionally, a glossy tile’s easy-to-clean nature makes them ideal for kitchens, splashbacks and bathrooms. Although glossy surfaces are practically easy to clean, abrasive dirt like sad needs to be removed and swept off to avoid scratching the surface.

But although these tiles are aesthetically pleasing, there are still factors to consider. This article presents the pros and cons of high gloss kitchen tiles.

 

Pros of high-gloss kitchen tiles

Visually, glossy tiles are very reflective and dramatic, especially in dark colours. Because of the polished surface, light reflects off the tiles.

They are ideal for small kitchen spaces because they can make it appear larger and brighter, especially if the tiles used are white. One of the major advantages of glossy tiles is that they’re easy to clean. You only need a soft cloth, warm water and mild liquid detergent to remove spills, smudge and other marks and wipe it dry.

They’re perfect if you’re going for a luxurious, modern high-end look for your kitchen. A number of homeowners opt for glossy tiles for their kitchen floors to add a luxurious feel and a modern touch to their kitchen.

 

Cons of high-gloss kitchen tiles

One of the major drawbacks of a glossy surface is that it easily makes spots, smears and other marks more visible compared with a matt finish. If there is a high volume of traffic in your kitchen, you might want to consider a matt finish if you don’t want to regularly mop the surface and remove any visible marks.

Another concern homeowners have noticed about glossy tiles is that they more slippery than matte ones, potentially leading to injuries. If this is a major concern for your household and if there are kids, opt for a matte finish for the kitchen flooring and use a high gloss finish for the backsplash. This way, you can achieve both beauty and practicality of both finishes.

 

Final thoughts

Like overall design decisions for your home, it still depends on your personal preference and the look that you want to achieve. If you have a small kitchen space and don’t mind the regular cleaning, then opt for high gloss kitchen tiles.

If you’re thinking of upgrading your tiles to a more luxurious high-gloss kitchen option, simply get in touch with our experts today. Call us on 01707 650565 or fill in our online form.