This New Design Trend Might Be the Secret to a Low-Maintenance Kitchen, Designers Say

• Matte finishes are becoming more common in appliances, countertops, lighting, and even walls.
• Matte textures can be more forgiving when it comes to imperfections; countertops and tile will be less likely to show dirt.
• For the best look, mix matte finishes with some polished finishes, or pair with rustic elements.

Matte finishes aren’t necessarily new—several years ago, we saw matte black finishes skyrocket in popularity as the modern farmhouse aesthetic took over homes everywhere.

Today, however, matte finishes aren’t limited to fixtures and plumbing. Appliances, countertops, lighting, and even walls are getting the matte treatment, and designers can’t get enough of it. 

We spoke to two interior designers to learn all about the matte finishes trend taking over the design world and their top tips for decorating with them like a pro. Here’s what they had to say.

The Matte Effect

Compared to high-gloss finishes, designers love matte finishes for their soft and understated aesthetic. They look great under natural light and pair well with organic materials and rustic textures, giving any space a homey and inviting feel. 

“What I love about matte textures—like plaster walls, honed countertops, unlacquered brass fixtures, or frosted glass—is that they allow for a little imperfection,” says Kirsten Thomas, founder and principal designer of Studio Thomas. “They feel more forgiving, more human. That tells me people are leaning into homes that feel relaxed, tactile, and truly lived in.”

Matte finishes can also be easier to clean and maintain than high-gloss finishes, depending on the material. For example, matte countertops and tiles aren’t as quick to show dirt, grime, and fingerprints as highly polished surfaces.

On the other hand, matte plumbing or matte appliances like fridges may be more prone to showing fingerprints than their traditional counterparts.

For this reason, it’s essential to consider your lifestyle before deciding how you’ll integrate matte finishes into your space.

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Tips for Decorating with Matte Finishes

When decorating with matte finishes, designers agree that varying the sheens throughout your space is key.

“If you select everything completely matte, you’ll end up with spaces that feel flat and lifeless,” says Kristina Lawrence, founder and principal designer of Kristina Lawrence Interior Design. “Look for finishes such as satin and low-sheen and add lots of texture that can play with light and shadow, which adds depth and warmth without stealing the show.”

Don’t be afraid to mix some high-polish finishes in with your matte finishes too. Think: matte faucets paired with polished light fixtures overhead, or vice versa.

Just as mixing metals can give your space a layered look filled with character and charm, so too can mixing your finishes. Avoid anything too matchy.

Matte finishes offer a sense of calm and tranquility to a space. They’re unfussy, yet still sophisticated, which makes them ideal for a variety of decor aesthetics.

Lawrence loves pairing matte finishes with rustic elements like reclaimed wood and natural stone. She also says they are ideal if you are working with large windows that display stunning scenery, since matte finishes won’t distract from the idyllic outdoor views.

If you’re interested in trying matte finishes in your home but hesitant to dive right in, Thomas offers some advice. 

“We often use matte finishes to create a sense of calm,” Thomas says. “They quiet the space, allowing form and material to take center stage. Start with one element—countertops, hardware, or even lighting—and build from there. It’s a subtle change that can completely shift the tone of your home,” she says. 

Try incorporating matte finishes into your decor in various ways until you find something you like, and don’t feel the need to swap all your glossy finishes out. A few thoughtfully placed matte elements will impact your space more than a fully matte interior ever could.