Choosing the suitable countertop finish: A guide to prevent post-remodeling regret when it comes to gloss or matte surfaces for your countertops
In the world of kitchen design, the choice of finish for countertops can significantly impact their feel, look, and performance. Two popular options that have been making waves are matte and glossy finishes.
Alex Main, director of The Main Company, recommends avoiding a shiny, black granite countertop due to its tendency to show fingerprints and require extensive upkeep. Instead, he suggests considering a matte marble, which can be more forgiving when it comes to marks and minor scratches. Matte surfaces, such as these, are popular for busy households due to their low-maintenance finish that minimizes the appearance of fingerprints, smudges, or watermarks.
Jayne Everett, creative director at Naked Kitchens, echoes this sentiment, stating that matte surfaces provide a sophisticated, low-maintenance alternative for modern kitchens. Matte finishes won't show fingerprints, marks, or smudges as much as glossy surfaces. Everett notes that matching matte finish countertops with the same matte kitchen doors creates a warm and grounding mood.
Today's new-gen laminates mimic the look of natural materials but without the high price tag or heavy weight. A manmade kitchen countertop with a matte finish, such as Suede, is a durable and stain-resistant alternative to real stone.
Leathered stone countertops have a subtle texture and relief, offering a more natural look. Leathered finishes are popular and add an extra dimension to both contemporary and classic kitchens. They have a tactile, organic quality and are increasing in popularity across both contemporary and traditional kitchens.
Mid-sheen finishes, such as satin or suede-like textures, are seeing a significant uptick due to their ability to age gracefully and often skip the need for heavy lacquers or matting agents, making them a more sustainable option. Jane Campbell, strategy director at Surface Matter, agrees, noting that these finishes not only age gracefully but are also more sustainable.
Nathan Kingsbury predicts that high-gloss worktops will remain popular for their ability to add light and drama, especially in small kitchens. Glossy countertops reflect light, making kitchens feel brighter and airier. However, they are more prone to showing fingerprints, watermarks, and require regular upkeep.
The current trend for kitchen countertop materials in 2026 emphasizes sustainable and natural-looking surfaces such as quartz composites, recycled materials, and matte stone finishes. Design trends for 2026 lean towards a softer, more natural aesthetic with earthy tones dominating kitchens, complementing the understated elegance of matte worktops. Polished stones create drama and sheen, while matte or textured surfaces bring warmth, interest, and a more organic aesthetic.
In conclusion, the choice between matte and glossy finishes for kitchen countertops is a personal one, influenced by factors such as maintenance, aesthetic preference, and the overall design concept of the kitchen. Whether you prefer the understated elegance of matte finishes or the bright, dramatic effect of glossy surfaces, there's a finish out there to suit your style and needs.
