Should You Choose Matte or Gloss for Your Kitchen Cabinets?

Matte vs gloss — it sounds like a small choice, but this single finish decision can shape the whole feel of your kitchen.

Here’s the truth: it’s not just about looks.

Each finish has different pros, cons, and “vibes” — and what works in one Melbourne home might look off in another.

Let’s break it down, Bluestone-style.

1. Gloss Kitchen Cabinets: The Pros & Cons

✅ Pros:

• Reflects light — makes smaller kitchens feel bigger

• Sleek and modern

• Easy to wipe spills off (great for splash zones)

🚫 Cons:

• Shows fingerprints and smudges easily (especially in darker colours)

• High glare under downlights or daylight

• Can feel too clinical if not balanced with warmth (timber, stone, etc.)

💡 Best for: apartment kitchens, high-gloss modern styles, light colour schemes

2. Matte Kitchen Cabinets: The Pros & Cons

✅ Pros:

• Soft, refined, premium look

• Hides fingerprints better — even in black or navy

• Blends beautifully with stone, timber, and textured surfaces

• Less glare = easier on the eyes in open-plan spaces

🚫 Cons:

• Can show oil smudges and water marks (especially cheaper matte finishes)

• Some matte laminates are harder to clean if they’re ultra-matte

• Absorbs light — can make small kitchens feel tighter if not styled well

💡 Best for: family kitchens, luxury builds, natural/earthy palettes

3. What We’re Seeing in Melbourne Kitchens Right Now (2025)

Melbourne design leans clean, soft, and layered.

At Bluestone, we’re seeing:

• Matte white and soft greys paired with stone splashbacks

• Flat matte black for bold feature walls

• Two-tone matte + timber combos (upper cabinets light, lowers dark woodgrain)

• Handleless matte cabinetry for a streamlined, designer look

Gloss still has its place — but it’s more often used in smaller kitchens or minimalist interiors.

4. Can You Mix Both?

Yes — and it often looks 🔥.

Some ideas:

• Matte cabinets with a gloss island feature

• Gloss uppers + matte lowers

• Gloss splashback + matte cabinetry for contrast

Mixing finishes adds depth. Just make sure it’s intentional — not accidental.

5. Finish Matters — But So Does Quality

Don’t just pick “matte” or “gloss” — pick a high-quality laminate or 2-pack finish that will stand up over time.

Bluestone tip:

• Avoid ultra-budget laminates. They scratch easily and won’t age well.

• Want fingerprint-resistant matte? Ask for supermatt or soft-touch finishes.

We’ll walk you through real samples so you know exactly what you’re getting — no surprises on install day.

Final Verdict?

Choose gloss if you want light, reflection, and an ultra-modern feel.

Choose matte for warmth, texture, and low-maintenance living.

Still torn? Don’t stress. We guide every client through their palette during the design phase — with real samples and layout mockups.

👉 Book a consult and get expert eyes on your kitchen layout and style.