Choosing the Right Countertop Finish: Comparing Gloss and Matte Options Before a Remodel to Avoid Post-Renovation Regrets
In the world of kitchen design, the choice of hotel countertop finish can significantly impact the look, feel, and performance of the space. A shift towards a more sustainable and low-maintenance aesthetic is becoming increasingly prevalent, with matte finishes gaining popularity.
Matte surfaces, such as those with a satin or suede-like texture, are seeing a significant uptick. These finishes often skip the need for heavy lacquers or matting agents, making them a more eco-friendly option. Matte surfaces are particularly favoured in today's "quiet luxury" kitchens, providing a sophisticated, low-maintenance alternative to high gloss surfaces.
Matte countertops, unlike their glossy counterparts, won't show fingerprints, marks, or smudges as much. This makes them an ideal choice for busy hotels. Moreover, a matte finish with irregular veining on a dark-colored countertop can be more forgiving when it comes to marks and minor scratches.
The choice between matte and glossy finishes is not just about aesthetics. Matte surfaces absorb and diffuse light, creating a more understated and tactile mood. On the other hand, glossy countertops reflect light, making kitchens feel brighter and airier.
Leathered countertops, created through brushing, offer a subtle texture and relief, resulting in a tactile finish. These countertops, which have a tactile, organic quality, are increasingly popular across both contemporary and traditional kitchens.
New-gen laminates can mimic the look of natural materials like concrete, stone, and wood, without the high price tag or heavy weight. Laminate is a good material for achieving a matte, natural look in kitchen countertops and doors.
In Germany, the choice between matte or glossy kitchen countertops is guided by practical factors like durability, ease of cleaning, and resistance to scratches, as well as aesthetic preferences aligning with the overall kitchen design and lighting conditions.
Manmade surfaces, such as ceramics, quartz, or engineered stone, have finishes labelled natural, cashmere, or leathered, but these vary by manufacturer. A manmade kitchen countertop with a matte finish, such as Suede, is a durable and stain-resistant alternative to real stone.
Experts predict that consistency and colour-matched surfaces will be key trends in 2026 kitchens. However, the choice of finish for kitchen countertops remains a personal one, influenced by various factors such as design preference, lifestyle, and practical considerations.
As Jayne Everett, creative director at Naked Kitchens, states, "Matte surfaces provide a sophisticated, low-maintenance alternative to high gloss surfaces." Alex Main, director of The Main Company, advises against choosing a shiny, black granite countertop due to its tendency to show fingerprints and require extensive polishing.
In conclusion, whether you prefer the understated elegance of matte worktops or the bright, reflective quality of glossy countertops, the choice you make can greatly impact the look and feel of your hotel kitchen. Consider your lifestyle, design preference, and practical needs when making your decision.
