When designing or renovating your kitchen, finishes are one of those small details that have a big impact. The surface finish you choose—matte or glossy—doesn’t just affect the look of your cabinets, countertops, and backsplash, it can also influence the mood, maintenance needs, and even how spacious your kitchen feels.
In this post, we’ll break down the differences between matte and glossy finishes, explore their pros and cons, and help you decide which one is the right fit for your small kitchen.
What is a Matte Finish?
A matte finish is smooth and non-reflective, meaning it doesn’t bounce light around the room. This creates a soft, understated look that feels modern and cozy.
- Appearance: Velvety and flat
- Light Reflection: Minimal
- Common Uses: Cabinet doors, wall paint, countertops
Matte finishes hide fingerprints and smudges better than glossy surfaces, making them a great choice for busy households or kitchens with lots of daily activity.
What is a Glossy Finish?
A glossy finish is shiny and highly reflective, often giving the surface a mirror-like quality. This can make colors appear richer and give the kitchen a polished, upscale feel.
- Appearance: Sleek and shiny
- Light Reflection: High
- Common Uses: Cabinet doors, tiles, backsplashes, appliance fronts
Glossy finishes can make a small kitchen feel larger because they reflect light, giving the illusion of more space.
Matte vs Glossy
| Feature | Matte Finish | Glossy Finish |
|---|---|---|
| Style | Subtle, modern, warm | Bold, luxurious, bright |
| Light Reflection | Low | High |
| Maintenance | Hides smudges and scratches well | Shows fingerprints, smudges, and dust easily |
| Durability | Resistant to visible wear | Scratches may be more noticeable |
| Best For | Busy families, modern/rustic kitchens | Small kitchens, contemporary/glam styles |
Pros of Matte Finishes
- Low Maintenance Look – Great for hiding imperfections, smudges, and water spots.
- Soft, Relaxed Vibe – Perfect if you want a cozy, welcoming kitchen.
- Timeless Appeal – Works well in both traditional and modern designs.
Cons of Matte Finishes
- Less Light Reflection – May make a small kitchen feel darker.
- Harder to Clean Certain Stains – Oil and grease marks can sometimes be tricky to remove.
Pros of Glossy Finishes
- Brightens the Space – Reflects light, making the room feel larger and airier.
- Easy to Wipe Clean – Smooth surfaces make it simple to remove dirt and spills.
- Luxury Feel – Adds a modern, high-end touch to your kitchen.
Cons of Glossy Finishes
- Shows Every Smudge – Fingerprints, dust, and scratches are more visible.
- Can Feel Too Formal – Not always the best choice for a casual or rustic kitchen.
Tips for Choosing Between Matte and Glossy
- Glossy finishes can help make the space feel bigger.
- Matte may be more practical for hiding marks.
- Glossy is great for deep colors like navy or emerald green.
- Matte works beautifully in neutral tones like beige, grey, and white.
