Modern day homeowners are fortunate to have so many options when designing their brand new kitchen.

Unfortunately, that same level of choice can make building a dream kitchen an absolute nightmare.

One question that enters the mind of many is what finish you should choose for your cabinetry. Should you go the classic laminate route? Or should you opt for a two pack cabinetry finish? Regardless of either, is matte or gloss the way to go?

What you decide depends on your taste, your budget, and a few other factors. Below we’ll detail what each type of finish is as well as their benefits and drawbacks.

 

What Is Laminate Cabinetry?

Laminate cabinetry first hit the scene back in the 1950s. Economical and stylish, this layered paper finish is resin forced with additional thermosetting resins, making it durable and long-lasting.

We know what you may be thinking – laminate is old-school and dated. But today’s laminate options are gorgeous and plentiful, making it a guarantee that there is the perfect laminate finish for every Australian kitchen. 

 

What Is Two Pack Cabinetry?

Unlike classic paint brushing, two pack is applied to cabinets in the same manner as a car would be painted. The solution contains one part paint and one part hardener (hence the name “two pack”) and is applied in a controlled environment to ensure that nothing interferes with its application (like dust and other airborne debris).

While not as popular as laminate, two pack has grown in popularity for a few reasons:

  • Custom colour options
  • No visible joints
  • Can be applied to a variety of surfaces (unlike laminate which can only be applied to smooth and flat surfaces)
  • Multiple surface finishes (differing levels of gloss, satin, matte and even a textured “Crystal Coat” finish)

 

Cons of Two Pack Cabinets. 

On the downside, 2 pack surfaces can show marks more than laminate surfaces.  

Another difference which may play a key role in your decision making is the cost. On average, two pack finishes cost more than laminate finishes. For many homeowners, the difference simply isn’t worth the cost – especially if there are lots of little kids running around. 

We find that often our customers, prefer to spend the difference in budget on stone benchtops and accessories rather than 2 pack cabinets.

Get Enviable Results at an Affordable Price with a Zesta Kitchens Qualia Kitchen.

One of the most impressive kitchens we have to offer here at Zesta Kitchens is our Melbourne Qualia Kitchen. Constructed from the finest surface materials available – Senosan – our Qualia kitchen is available in both matte and gloss finishes. However, matte cabinetry is currently on trend and we have been finding that people are moving away from gloss to matte cabinets.

That being said, gloss cabinets still have their place. Choosing matte or gloss depends on your kitchen flooring as well as the amount of natural light flowing into the room. 

Matte is a better choice if you tend to have high gloss floors or lots of natural light (otherwise you may be overwhelmed by your kitchen’s “shine” factor).

 

Not sure what to choose? Take a moment to schedule your free in-home kitchen assessment with an accomplished Melbourne Kitchen Designer at Zesta Kitchens today!