Kitchen Cabinet Doors: Choosing the Right Finish

The most affordable and easiest way to transform the look of your kitchen is by replacing the cabinet doors with either a matt or high gloss kitchen finish. Since cabinets occupy a huge amount of kitchen space, they’re easily noticeable.

So by replacing them with new kitchen cabinets, you can instantly transform the overall look and feel of the kitchen. But the challenge remains—figuring out which finish and kitchen door type are appropriate for your kitchen.

This article will help you choose which finish is right for your cabinets.

High gloss kitchen finish

A popular contemporary design for kitchen doors, this finish is ideal for kitchen cabinets with a flat surface. Others refer to this particular finish as ultrahigh gloss and can vary depending on the manufacturer or designer.

If light colours are used, the light easily reflects back to the kitchen, making the space appear brighter and larger than it actually is. Also, a glossy surface for the kitchen cabinet doors makes space look tidy and clean.

Reasons why you should opt for a high gloss finish:

  1. If you have a small space for your kitchen, you can make it appear larger
  2. Darker colours not appear too dark and would not make the space appear cramped
  3. High gloss finish is easy to clean compared

Matt kitchen finish

This particular finish type is often associated with a traditional or a modern kitchen and most often used for wooden kitchen cabinet doors. If you plan on kitchen doors with moulded design, then a matt finish is the ideal choice.

Additionally, a matt finish is also perfect for contemporary kitchen cabinet doors. If your kitchen space is very bright, then a matt finish is the perfect choice since it absorbs light, providing just the right amount of lighting.

Advantages of using a matt finish for your kitchen cabinets:

  1. Marks, scratches, smudges and fingerprints will not be easily visible on the surface
  2. Consistent colours throughout
  3. Like the glossy finish, it is easy to clean

Other factors to consider   

Other factors that need to be considered include the colour and door design.

You colour choice greatly affects the overall appearance of the room. Wood grain or richer colours make your kitchen appear warm and inviting, while lighter colours make it look brighter and larger.

Door handles are also another factor that needs to be considered. Handle-less kitchen cabinet doors are the latest in the market these days. Although these door types appear to flow effortlessly and provide a streamlined and clean finish, a number of homeowners find them too clinical-looking.

Whether you choose a matt or a high gloss kitchen cabinet finish, keep in mind the above factors. If you are still undecided, you can always choose to mix both finishes for your kitchen.

Black High Gloss Kitchen Cabinet Inspiration

The last thing that would cross your mind when designing your home kitchen is a black high gloss kitchen cabinet. Black not only is a strong colour but also denotes a serious tone. However, it is the perfect blend of a dramatic and a contemporary look, ideal for creating that much sought-after luxury kitchen.

Since the kitchen cabinets are the deciding factor for your kitchen’s ambiance and style, you might think black is not the right colour for it. Think again.

Black cabinets have become the new trend in kitchen design. Whether this colour is used for the centre island or for all the cabinetry, your kitchen will definitely standout. Black is a great backdrop for other design elements in the room, making each pop out.

Whether you splash a little black somewhere in the kitchen or go all out, black kitchen cabinetry would enhance any kitchen style, be it traditional, contemporary or rustic. A glossy black kitchen cabinet is your kitchen’s high-end focal point.

Below are black-painted kitchen cabinet design inspirations that could widen your perspective why black is indeed beautiful.

The modern meets the bold

Black high gloss kitchen cabinets complement the glossy teal backsplash and perfectly blend with the white kitchen flooring, opening up the space and giving off both a contemporary and a warm feel in this smartly designed home kitchen.

The Victorian!

In the Victorian era, homeowners utilised almost black-stained dark woods such as mahogany and cherry. A dangling crystal chandelier and a marble or granite worktop are the ideal accessories for a Victorian-inspired kitchen design set against glossy black cabinets. Your friends and guests would feel like they have walked back in time.

The minimalist

Stripped down to the bare necessities with this minimalist kitchen complete with modern high gloss kitchen cabinets with metallic accents. It is sleek and modern at the same time. The dark paint of the cabinets contrasts beautifully with the white walls, making the kitchen appear simple, clean yet elegant.

A pop of colour

Who says you can’t add colour? Blend colour from various kitchen appliances to complement the serious tone set by the glossy black cabinets. Add a little metallic accent from the other appliances and you have a complete look that says, “Live a little.”

The Elegant

Black is elegant but when combined with proper lighting creates the most divine look for a home kitchen. Hanging lighting fixture add drama to the already elegant tone set by black cabinets.

These are just a few of the many stunning black high gloss kitchen cabinets that are taking over modern home kitchens today. Channel the bold, the elegant and the dramatic with black because black is still the new black.

 

How to Clean and Maintain Your High Gloss Kitchen Surface

We spend so much time and money beautifying and upgrading our home kitchens that we sometimes fail to remember that it’s the busiest room in the house. It will be subject to constant wear and tear and to heavy foot traffic, among other things. So if it’s your first time purchasing a kitchen or you plan on sprucing it up for the upcoming New Year, then bear in mind if your chosen kitchen design and materials are easy to clean and maintain.

It doesn’t matter if you have bought and installed the most expensive materials and finishes, but you failed to maintain them, leaving them to lose their shine and lustre. Instead of looking luxurious and clean, you’ll have a worn-out kitchen that is unappealing to your family and guests. Make an informed decision by understanding how to keep your kitchen free from spills, dust and other dirt and maintain its well-deserved grandeur.

One of the major decisions you have to make is picking out kitchen finishes, the most common and popular being a matt or high gloss kitchen finish. Each finish holds their own appeal to homeowners, and they prefer one over the other.

So if you’re opting for a high gloss finish, it is worth noting that this particular type of finish can make fingerprints, scratches and other marks easily visible, particularly in darker-coloured finishes. But this definitely shouldn’t put you off from choosing this finish. You just need the right cleaning know-how in your arsenal to tackle everyday kitchen use.

An easy high gloss surface maintenance requires a combination of 3 factors: using the best cleaning device, cleaning solution and cleaning technique. The following is a look at each of the aforementioned factors to help you in your kitchen cleaning battle.

Using the best kitchen cleaning device

Different gloss materials have different resistant properties. But abrasive materials still should never be used on these surfaces as it could potentially cause damage. Instead, high gloss surfaces should only be cleaned using a soft microfibre cloth, which is readily available in supermarkets.

A microfibre cloth is anti-scratch, so you won’t have to worry about this material leaving marks on the surface of your modern kitchen. It is made of tiny synthetic fibres which are smaller than those found in a regular cleaning cloth. The smallest speck of dust and dirt attaches to the thousands of tiny fibres, making sure the cleaning cloth doesn’t miss a thing.

Using the best cleaning solution

If you think you have to head out to the store and get some high-end cleaning products that would leave you wondering why you had to have a high gloss kitchen surface, then think again! All you need is water. Yes, that’s right. Water. Lukewarm water is the best possible solution for your cleaning needs.

However, other kitchen companies recommend the use of cleaning agents or using soapy water with the microfibre cloth. But it is not advisable. Why? Strong chemicals are found in detergents, which could lead to damages on the glossy finish, not to mention your skin.

Using the right technique

Using the best technique leaves your surface clean. So using a microfibre cloth, dip it in lukewarm water, wring it until lightly damp. Remember not to over soak the cloth as it will reduce its effectiveness and could leave behind residual marks and smears on your once glossy surface once it has dried up.

With an “S” motion, gently wipe the surface. If there are tougher stains, you will have to employ some elbow grease. To maintain your glossy surface, immediately clean any spill or stain. Don’t let it dry.

By incorporating all 3 factors, you’ll be able to maintain your high gloss kitchens surfaces and be the envy of neighbours and friends. Keeping its shine isn’t hard. You just need the right tools and knowledge. So go ahead and upgrade your kitchen just in time for the holiday season!

Get your high gloss kitchen from the experts

Here at Designer Kitchens, we love a high-gloss kitchen. The modern simplicity they bring is unbeatable.

So, if you’d like to inject a luxurious high-gloss finish into your kitchen design, simply get in touch. Our team would be happy to help!

How to Clean Granite Worktops [Infographic]

The Dos and Don’ts of Granite Kitchen Worktops

A growing number of homeowners are turning to natural stones to increase their home’s value and aesthetic appeal. This is no surprise since natural stones are a form of investment. And one of the leading natural stone worktop materials is granite.

Not only are granite worktops appealing, but also they are durable and strong. They come in a wide array of colours that easily matches any kitchen theme, from traditional to minimalist to modern kitchen decor.

But like any other form of investment, granite kitchen worktops need to be properly cared for and maintained so that it could last for generations. A regular maintenance plan keeps the granite slabs lustrous and strong as the day they were properly installed in the kitchen.

Although granite is durable substance, certain precautions should still be taken to protect it from chipping or any further damage. The infographic below details the dos and don’ts on how to clean granite worktops. Learn from the infographic to keep your investment in top shape. Little daily habit could spell the difference between a bright and shiny worktop from a dull one.

How to clean granite worktops

The Benefits of Installing German Kitchen Brands

When it comes to buying or updating your home kitchen, you have tons of designs, themes and layouts to choose from, let alone the vast choices of kitchen appliances available in the market. You also need to consider your current available space as well as your need for a practical and efficient kitchen that suits your family.

One of the hottest kitchens in the market today is the German kitchen, offering clean lines yet combines a modern and timeless look. Additionally, there are other benefits of installing a German kitchen for your lovely home, which fits not only your family’s needs but also your budget.

Let’s take a look at some of the benefits German kitchens provide.

“Made in Germany” reputation

Germany is known for its reputation worldwide in making the most efficient machines people could ask for. This includes kitchens that are not only beautiful but also are backed up with German engineering that is renowned worldwide for durability and strength.

Style

While your kitchen’s quality and layout are of utmost importance, you also would want continuity in your kitchen’s theme. Fortunately, German kitchens offer a wide array of interior design, colours and other specifications that will easily match your kitchen’s design.

Whether you are looking for a classic wood finish or a more modern gloss-coloured unit, you’ll definitely find something that suits your needs. Of course, these different styles come with different price tags, meaning you need not break the bank to have your ideal finish.

Flexibility

One of the great things about a German kitchen is flexibility, for example, your choice of cabinetry. Each unit can be specifically made for you and customised to suit your choice of height to an easy and comfortable kitchen use.

Furthermore, well-thought-out touches to your chosen cabinets really make a difference, such as latches for simultaneous opening of hidden drawers. German kitchen brands also offer innovating space-saving solutions as well as clever lighting options, which make them stand out among other kitchen brands.

Investing in German kitchens offer you peace of mind because you are assured they will stand the test of time. They leave the factories as rigid-built, having passed vigilant quality control tests. Germans constantly strive for excellence and improvement so that their kitchens meet changing consumer demands in the years to come.

If you want kitchens with premium quality and excellent design, you can’t go wrong with German kitchen brands. These kitchens will definitely become your home’s centrepiece. And such durability means you can enjoy your kitchen without seeing it crumbling after everyday wear and tear.

 

Modern Kitchen Layout Guide [Infographic]

A modern kitchen is not defined these days as purely for cooking purposes. It has evolved into a platform where family members, friends and guests can socialise. Therefore, modern-day kitchens have to add comfortable spaces and increase clearances.

That is why careful planning should go into creating a modern layout for your dream kitchen design, and the most important element in planning is the kitchen triangle. This imaginary straight line determines how easy it will be too move from the centre of the sink to centre of the cooktop to centre of the refrigerator and back to the centre of the sink. Additionally, the work triangle or “zones,” as others refer to it, will make cooking, eating and socialising in the kitchen easier for the family and guests.

Modern kitchen layouts include L-shape, U-shape, Gallery or Corridor, One-wall, G-shape, and the Island. The infographic below details the advantages and disadvantages of the modern-day kitchen layouts including tips on how to maximise the use of space for an efficient and functional home kitchen.

 

Modern Kitchen Layout Guide

Outdoor Kitchen Design Fundamentals [Infographic]

Take your home entertainment skills to the next level by building your own outdoor kitchen. There’s nothing more fun and comforting than smelling food being grilled, cooking outside and feeding hungry family and friends.

An outdoor space is an excellent way to use the backyard to entertain guests and to have some quality time with family together with your pets. These typically range from small areas with a built-in grill to a fully equipped kitchen complete with bars, storage cabinets and more than one grill.

Make the most of your dream outdoor space by equipping yourself with the right knowledge and tools. But most importantly, you need to carefully plan ahead before executing any home improvement project because planning is everything.

By planning every single step, you’ll avoid mistakes that could cost you anywhere from a few pounds to thousands. You’d rather spend time planning than expensively spending correcting mistakes that have been missed on the process of completing your home improvement project.

The infographic below details the fundamental aspects your outdoor space needs so that the experience of bringing life to a dull outdoor space is fun and exciting. You will appreciate more your outdoor kitchen if you had fun in the process of completing it.

Outdoor Kitchen Fundamentals

Functional Accessories For The Kitchen

Contrary to what everyone believes, there’s actually a lot more activities that go on in the kitchen than just cooking and preparing a meal. For many homeowners, the kitchen is the space where they spend their time not only for eating, but also for reading, entertaining, relaxing, and even working! With all that activity taking place in one area, your kitchen worktops will undoubtedly be cluttered after just a few days.

So if you’re tired of continually finding bottles, containers, packages of food, dirty dishes, junk mails, your kids’ homework, and all sorts of random things being placed on the kitchen counters far too often, then maybe it’s time for you to upgrade your storage.

Here are some simple, but efficient ways on how you can maximise the surface area of your worktops, but still keep it functional!

 

 

Stylish Kitchen Trays
A beautiful decorative tray can really make a big difference in your kitchen. Instead of sprawling out all the things you often use across the counter or shoving them into a corner, try storing them all together in one tray. Place the taller items in the back, and the shorter ones up front for easy access. You can even use larger or longer wood trays if you’ve got a lot of things to keep organised in one place.

 

 

Try the Tiered Stands
Kitchen trays can only give you so much flat surface to work with, but tiered kitchen stands can provide you with extra layers of it. Also, when you style them in a way that complements the rest of your theme or decor, they can look very striking. Another great idea is to use a tiered stand for storing some of your fresh fruits and herbs. You can also use them to stock cutlery or dishes for more convenience.

 

 

Convenient Canisters and Jars
Keeping all your kitchen materials in your cabinets always seems like a good idea at first — until you realise that those dark, confined spaces are a huge pain to deal with when overcrowded. If you bake or often cook for your family, try using large ceramic canisters or glass jars instead, and line them up neatly. Utilize them to store sugar, flour, pasta noodles, cookies, nuts, cereal, biscuits, or any other favourite ingredient that you can fit in there.

 

 

Beautiful Kitchen Baskets
Similar to kitchen trays, baskets make an excellent addition to any kitchen worktops, and the best thing about them is that they come in all sorts of shapes and sizes! You can choose a basket that looks like a tray or opt for larger-sized ones with some depth to them. Smaller ones are also excellent for keeping all those tiny things organised, so you always know where to find them.

 

 

 

The Hangable Solutions
As much as you try to maximise your kitchen space and keep your worktops free from any disarray — there will always be a limit to how much you can do before they start looking cluttered again. If this is a problem you’re currently dealing with, then you may have to get a little more creative. You can try fastening mason jars to the bottoms of your cupboards or hanging some small baskets to your backsplash area, and even mounting a wooden pole that you can use along with some removable hooks! That will certainly do the trick.

What’s your favourite way of keeping your kitchen worktops neat and organised? Feel free to try out the storage ideas featured above!