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Tag: contemporary kitchen

Pros & Cons of Matt Kitchen Cabinets and Worktops

Posted on by Pete Winter

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.

Finding the Right Kitchen Style for You: Gloss or Matt Kitchen Finish

Posted on by Pete Winter

Kitchen remodelling could be a fun or daunting task, whether you’re simply upgrading the worktop or the cabinets or you’re completely keeping up with the latest season’s décor.

One significant decision you will have to make is choosing between a high gloss and a matt kitchen finish. Some homeowners immediately know which of the two they prefer, while for others, it’s not quite clear.

Both finishes could be as perfect and beautiful as your home’s heart, although the decision entirely rests upon your personal preference.

Don’t worry. This article will help you make the right decision.

Let’s have a look at whether a matt or a high gloss finish could be just right for you and your home.

A high gloss kitchen

If you prefer a more sophisticated beauty, then gloss is your answer. It offers a lustrous finish and is ideal for modern and contemporary designs. In fact, it has been exceptionally popular since the 1970s.

Although high gloss can be a bit tricky to perfectly style, a well-designed high gloss kitchen could be more than spectacular.

 

 

Can match and blend with other colours

While gloss impeccably works in a smaller number of colours, it can still be perfect if you want your kitchen in luxurious black.

You might be concerned with black being a bit too much, a bit too dark or a bit too over-the-top.

But no!

There’s plenty of light reflected on the surface, even from darker colours. Even though you want to experiment with darker hues, you’ll still benefit from the reflection.

The amazing black gloss finish in the kitchen below retains spacious depth and feel of a contemporary kitchen. Although the colour is black, the space doesn’t feel cramped, thanks to the light reflected on the glossy surface.

 

Abundance of light

If you’re looking to maximise your kitchen space, a high gloss finish could be perfect.

Its shiny surface reflects light coming from the outside or from light fixtures into and across the kitchen, creating the illusion of a larger space and making the room feel bigger than what it actually is.

This is especially true when you opt for lighter colours such as cream white, although these aren’t your only options.

However, caution should be taken when combining different colours with gloss.

Remember that the surface reflects light. This means the surface will reflect all the colours in your kitchen. So, when you experiment with contrasting colours, be prepared to a space with mesh of clashing colours.

Easy cleaning and maintenance

One of the fascinating qualities that make high gloss ideal among homeowners is that it’s fairly easy to clean.

Yes, it is true that fingerprints, smudges and other imperfections can be visible on glossy surfaces. However, note that these imperfections are not easily noticeable on high-quality glossy finishes.

Still unconvinced?

How about considering handleless high gloss kitchen cabinets?

Is a handleless high gloss finish the best choice for you?

Some homeowners are put off the idea of choosing a glossy finish because of the fact that fingerprints and other marks can show up prominently on the surface. If your heart is set on this glossy finish, yet you can’t stand the idea of having to constantly wipe off stains and other marks, there is another more appealing option.

Kitchen cabinets and cupboards with handles can easily attract smudges and dirt, simply because people will be touching these surfaces. Additionally, this all accumulates around the handles, the most awkward place, making cleaning a pain.

However, all these can be avoided with handleless kitchen cabinets.

As the name implies, these cabinet styles have no front handles that we often see on regular cabinet doors. Although various options are available, a “true handleless” type is created by recessing a solid stainless steel channel in the top line of the cabinet, creating a gap for your fingers between the top of the drawer or door and worktop’s underside.

Your fingers should curl around the surface edge and onto the back of the drawer or door, pulling it forward to open.

Benefits. This style allows you to create a streamlined, uncluttered look. The best part of this is that there are no handles where children can hang from or accidentally bang their head.

Understanding the diverse gloss materials

A glossy finish can be achieved with a wide number of materials. You can easily find and get what you are shooting for.

You have gloss glass, gloss laminate and even gloss acrylic. Whatever your heart desires, there’s plenty of options to help you create your own luxury kitchen.

Matt kitchen finish

Unlike high gloss’ reflective surface, matt instead absorbs light and doesn’t reflect it. This means you’ll have a flat stylish look, which can be ideal for anything from country-style properties to traditional designs.

However, its simplicity also lends to a more contemporary style. Matt finish tends to have a more slightly warmer and consistent feel than gloss.

Hides marks and other imperfections

Much like gloss, matt surfaces are relatively easy to clean. However, an additional benefit provided by this particular finish is that it’s much better at hiding any imperfections on the surface.

Not only is matt scratch resistant, but also fingerprints, smudges and other marks are less noticeable on its surface. This is highly ideal for households with children. It means that you can get more out of life since the surface will remain in exceptional condition for a long period of time.

Broader colour variety

Compared with gloss, matt finishes offer a broader variety of colours. This lets you mix two colours more easily, which can be very beneficial if you have a specific palette in mind.

And yes! It’s true that matt finishes easily blend quite well with other surfaces and materials, including gloss.

Some homeowners initially prefer having a glossy finish, but then they opt for matt when they find out that they can easily get what they’re actually looking for.

In general, matt finishes work with a wider range of properties and may be more naturally suited to the aesthetic of your home. In the example below, the dark matt surfaces sit perfectly alongside the wooden cabinets and worktop.

Textured or smooth

If you do set your heart with a matt finish, another decision you will have to face are the kinds of material to use. This often boils down to a smooth or a textured finish.

Although textured surfaces look more stunning in any kitchen, it should be noted that they’re more prone to packing dust and dirt. Frequent cleaning might be needed.

However, there is no right or wrong answer as to which is better for your home. Just opt for one that is ideal for the way you live.

If you don’t want regularly clean and is keeping a busy household, then a smooth finish could be the way to go.

Appearing elegant and luxurious

What makes matt perfect for a minimalist is its understated elegance. Check out the example below.

 

On matt surfaces, colours will appear solid from all angles. Your kitchen will definitely have a smooth-looking surface, regardless of time of day. In glossy surfaces, the colour and appearance dramatically change depending on the time of day and the amount of reflected light.

Matt is best when combined with other features

Unlike the striking and attention-grabbing appearance of gloss, matt leans more on the naturally muted look. That doesn’t mean that matt has a boring or flat look. Rather, matt works perfectly either as the centrepiece or a stunningly beautiful backdrop, complementing the other bolder features of your kitchen.

When you take this into account and the fact that matt comes in a wide range of materials and colours, this proves that a kitchen such as this could appeal to almost every type of taste and style—versatility being its strongest suit.

For example, a more dramatic backlash could be set against a matt finish.

So which is the right one for your home?

This technically depends on your personal taste and lifestyle. If you don’t mind seeing fingerprints now and then or constant clean up isn’t an issue, then we recommend a high gloss finish.

However, if you want to hide any imperfections and if there are kids in the house, opt for a matt kitchen finish.

Note that you need to factor in the quality of the kitchen material and finish in your decision as well. By working with reputable and high-quality suppliers, you are assured that your kitchen finish will last for a very long time.

Black High Gloss Kitchen Cabinet Inspiration

Posted on by Pete Winter

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.

 

6 Contemporary Kitchen Design Ideas for Small Spaces

Posted on by Pete Winter

The kitchen serves as the place to prepare meals, but today’s homeowners consider their kitchen space as a place for gathering in the home. However, when your kitchen space is no larger than a closet, even one person could feel like too many cooks.

So a redesign might be in order. But design ideas for small kitchens border the line between simplicity and restraint yet maintaining a welcoming air for the favourite room in the house. So it takes smart planning to create both a multifunctional and aesthetically appealing kitchen.

The hottest in the market today is what many consider as contemporary kitchen designs. This modern fuss-free design is an ideal match for a small kitchen because it blends efficient design details and smart storage to create the illusion of spaciousness.

Here are design ideas to help you make the most out of your small kitchen.

 

Structured cabinetry and hard-edged worktops

What comes to mind when thinking about contemporary kitchens are hard, sleek and structure. These features come to life in hard-edged worktops and structured cabinetry, as opposed to the common rounded edges.

Smart storage

Since your kitchen is short on space, adding extra storage up top is the way to go. Ceiling height cabinets with glass doors remove the clutter in kitchen counters. If going up isn’t your thing, a pull out pantry is another option. Meanwhile, open shelving is perfect if you are going for an airy feel.

Appliance garage

Another way to keep kitchen counters clear is storing small appliances such as your toaster and coffeemaker in an appliance garage.

Bare necessities

Contemporary kitchen designs for small kitchens make use of minimalism. This means narrow down only to the bare necessities. For fuss-free recessed kitchen lighting, remove pendant lights. Choose appliances that can be tucked away in drawers.

Breakfast counter

Make your kitchen bigger by opening up space and connecting the kitchen to the dining area. You can achieve this with a cute pass-through, which doubles as a breakfast counter.

Colour

Monochromatic colours help create the illusion of spaciousness in tight spaces. You can opt for light bright whites or the now-popular sleek grey hues. By adding modern neutral colour palettes, you achieve the idea of a modern yet roomy kitchen, despite its actual size.

Small contemporary kitchen designs entail thoughtful and strategic planning, as well as furnishings. Visual clutter should be kept to a minimum. Always keep in mind that you have to make a place for everything and put everything in its place to achieve the luxury kitchen of your dreams.

 

Designer Kitchens has been in the kitchen industry for twenty-five years and has shown expertise in creating the perfect kitchen for all of its clients. Together with their team of experts, they can guarantee their client’s ambition fulfilled through their creation. Their attention to detail and their offerings of the latest luxury kitchen products are the two great assets that will help them in creating the perfect kitchen.