Choosing the Right Cabinet Finish: Matte vs. Glossy in 2025

Remodeling your kitchen is one of the most exciting ways to personalize your home. From layout and hardware to colors and materials, every design decision shapes your space. Cabinet finish is one of the most important choices in a kitchen remodel. It not only influences the aesthetic appeal of your kitchen but also plays a crucial role in functionality, maintenance, and mood.

In 2025, matte and glossy finishes continue to dominate the conversation among homeowners, designers, and cabinet dealers alike. Both finishes bring unique advantages and some potential drawbacks. To help you make the right choice for your kitchen, let’s break down everything you need to know about matte and glossy cabinet finishes.

Matte Cabinet Finishes: Understated Elegance

Matte finishes, known for their non-reflective, velvety appearance, have become a go-to for homeowners who appreciate subtle elegance. They’re a favorite in modern, transitional, and Scandinavian kitchen styles.

Pros of Matte Finishes

• Modern Aesthetic: Matte cabinets give your kitchen a clean, contemporary look. They fit seamlessly into minimalist designs and pair easily with neutral color palettes or natural materials like wood and stone.
• Hides Imperfections: One of the main benefits is its ability to disguise daily wear and tear. Fingerprints, smudges, and small scratches are far less noticeable. This makes it an ideal option for high-traffic households.
• Absorbs Light: Since matte finishes don’t reflect light, they create a more subdued and calming atmosphere. In kitchens with ample natural light, matte cabinets can reduce glare and balance the overall look.
• Sophisticated Depth: The lack of shine brings out the depth and richness of cabinet colors and materials, emphasizing texture and tone in a way that glossy finishes cannot.
• Versatility: Matte finishes complement a broad range of hardware finishes—from matte black to brushed brass—and coordinate well with various countertop materials, such as quartz, granite, or butcher block.

Cons of Matte Finishes

• Cleaning Challenges: Although they hide smudges well, cleaning matte surfaces can become a bit trickier once grime builds up. The wrong cleaner can leave streaks or residue, so experts usually recommend using gentle, specialized products.
• Can Feel Dim in Small Spaces: Since matte finishes absorb light, they may make smaller kitchens or those with limited lighting appear a bit darker or more enclosed—something to consider if you’re working with a compact layout.

Glossy Cabinet Finishes: Brightness and Boldness

Glossy cabinets, with their mirror-like sheen, bring energy and drama into a kitchen. Designers often use them in modern, contemporary, or high-glam kitchens because they reflect light beautifully.

Pros of Glossy Finishes

• Maximized Light Reflection: Glossy cabinets are an excellent solution for small or dimly lit kitchens. Their shiny surface reflects natural and artificial light. This makes your kitchen appear brighter and more spacious.
• Easy to Wipe Clean: Spills, food splatters, and water spots are easily visible—but just as easily cleaned. You can often restore their shine with a soft cloth and a mild cleaner.
• Striking Visual Impact: The smooth, polished surface creates a bold and upscale aesthetic. High-gloss cabinetry in bold colors, such as navy blue, emerald green, or even black, can become a showstopping focal point.
• Enhanced Color Vibrancy: Glossy finishes intensify the color of cabinets. Whether you choose a bright white, rich espresso or something more adventurous, the hue will appear more vivid and dynamic.

Cons of Glossy Finishes

• Visible Smudges and Scratches: The shiny surface of glossy cabinets shows fingerprints, smudges, and scratches more prominently than matte. This means you’ll likely need to clean them more frequently to keep them looking flawless.
• Can Show Imperfections: If the cabinet surface isn’t perfectly smooth or has tiny dents, a glossy finish might accentuate those flaws due to its reflectiveness.
• May Be Too Bold in Some Designs: In large, open kitchens or spaces flooded with light, an entirely glossy kitchen may come off as too intense or sterile unless carefully balanced with other textures or colors.

Aspects to Consider When Choosing Between Matte and Glossy

While personal preference plays a significant role in choosing between matte and glossy finishes, a few practical considerations can help you make a well-informed decision:

1. Your Lifestyle

Do you have pets or kids at home? A matte finish may be the better option for reducing visible mess and minimizing maintenance. If you’re a design perfectionist and don’t mind frequent cleaning, glossy cabinets can deliver that sleek, polished look you’re after.

2. Kitchen Size and Layout

Glossy finishes can make small kitchens appear larger and more open by bouncing light around the room. If your kitchen gets a lot of natural light, a matte finish can help reduce glare and create a more serene feel.

3. Lighting Conditions

Lighting is critical. In darker kitchens, glossy finishes can serve a functional purpose by enhancing illumination. On the other hand, in overly bright rooms, a matte finish prevents light from becoming overpowering.

4. Design Goals

Ask yourself: Do I want my cabinets to stand out or blend in? Glossy finishes command attention and can become the centerpiece of your design. Matte cabinets, while still stylish, tend to play a supporting role, allowing other materials, such as a bold backsplash or veined countertops, to take center stage.

Read More – Kitchen Cabinet Materials Guide

The 2025 Trend Outlook: What’s Gaining Momentum?

In 2025, hybrid kitchen designs that mix matte and glossy elements are gaining traction. Designers are adding both finishes in creative ways. For example, using glossy uppers to reflect light and matte lowers for balance and durability.

We are seeing a push toward textured matte finishes, such as super-matte or soft-touch laminates, which offer an ultra-smooth feel and high durability. On the glossy side, metallic or pearlescent high-gloss cabinets are emerging as an eye-catching option for luxury homes. No matter the trend, timeless appeal remains a key focus. Both matte and glossy offer longevity when paired with thoughtful design choices.

Making Your Decision with Boger Cabinetry

Choosing between matte and glossy doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. At Boger Cabinetry, our design team is here to guide you every step of the way, from finish comparisons to layout planning and color pairing.

Whether you’re envisioning a bold, modern kitchen or a warm, understated space, we’ll help you find the perfect combination that aligns with your lifestyle and taste.

Ready to Transform Your Kitchen?

Let us help you make the most of your remodel. Contact Boger Cabinetry today to schedule a free design consultation, browse cabinet styles, and explore finishes. Whether you’re renovating your forever home or upgrading for resale, the right cabinet finish can elevate your entire space.