When it comes to kitchens, there are a range of options out there. Choice is obviously a good thing. However, when there is so much choice it can all feel a bit overwhelming.
Here, we put two kitchen cabinet design favourites together: solid wood vs high gloss. In many ways, the styles of cabinets are polar opposites.
High gloss kitchen doors have quickly become the obvious choice for any homeowner wanting to create a contemporary and quality ultra-modern design. Meanwhile, the sight of a wood kitchen door instantly conjures up images of a country farmhouse, and traditional and classic looks.There are now more colour options too.
Both styles are more versatile than many people realise. Here’s everything you need to know about a solid wood kitchen door and high gloss doors.
Solid wood vs High Gloss – Fantastic looks guaranteed
With gloss units boast a sleek look.. As the units reflect the light of the space at different angles, it makes any space look bigger than it really is.
For a completely different aesthetic, solid wood kitchens truly are a thing of beauty and quality. They bring genuine charm and warmth to any space and have beautiful, traditional grain patterns.
Are high gloss cabinets trendy?
Although solid wood kitchen cabinets and high gloss kitchen doors are very different styles, both designs have got bags of character and charm in their own right. Both allow you to keep up with trends too.
With gloss there are various factors that affect the extent to which the units will reflect light. These are: the type of gloss, colour chosen, the underlying material, and the type of light in the space.
These days, there are many options on the market. Neutral shades, such as grey, cream, or cashmere, have come to the fore. They boast the same flowing lines as the gloss units of days gone by, but now they offer far more character and warmth. There is a colour scheme for all tastes.
What are the advantages of gloss in the kitchen?
The ability to create the illusion of space is the major advantage that high gloss has over the kitchen cabinet competition. This is why it is so popular with homeowners. It makes a small space appear wider and bigger than it really is. Most of us crave more space in the home and with gloss, the kitchen really opens up. This makes it a great choice of finish in a smaller-sized kitchen.
Are solid wood kitchens expensive?
With wooden cabinet doors you have plenty of choice. With so many wood species now available, you should be able to find a solid wood kitchen that matches both your style and your budget. You can customise too. From the shape to the finish, you can really create a unique look for your solid wood kitchen. You can easily create an elegant and entertaining space.
They deliver fantastic style, and kitchen doors crafted from wood are extremely strong and durable. In fact, in the strength stakes, it is unrivalled.
Typically – as wood is so durable – wooden kitchen doors offer fantastic value for money. They won’t need replacing as soon as with other materials and with proper care there is no reason why the units cannot last a lifetime.
Solid wood kitchens aren’t as expensive as you might think. With a 350mm single door base unit coming in at £164.04, Kitchen Warehouse wooden kitchen doors are affordable.
Remember, they really can’t be beaten when it comes to quality and longevity.
Gloss kitchen units are a really affordable option. We have a 350mm base unit with a single door available in seven colours for only £112.68.
Is it easy to maintain and clean high gloss doors?
Gloss kitchens are low maintenance and easy to clean. To keep on top of things, you just need a non-abrasive microfibre cloth. The microfibres will pick up any dust or marks that may have gathered on the surface.
For more stubborn stains, warm water, a mild dishwashing soap and a non-abrasive sponge will do the trick.
Maintenance of a wooden kitchen is not difficult or onerous, but it is very important. In its unfinished state, wood is not waterproof. Therefore, it is important that you waterproof properly.
You will want to ensure that wood is resilient and provides durability for years and tears to come.
What types of solid wood are available?
At Kitchen Warehouse, our solid wood kitchen cabinets are made from wood sourced from sustainable European forests. Only Grade A+ solid oak is used in the manufacture of our solid wood kitchens.
All feature the classic five-piece design and come with mortise and tenon joints.Top-of-the-range mechanisms – such as Hettich soft closing hinges – are also a feature.
If real wood kitchens are what you are looking for, Madison Oak and Wakefield Oak are great choices. Wood kitchens have a a timeless appeal – whatever type of cabinets you prefer. A wood door is always a smart choice.
If gloss is more your thing, we offer plenty of choice on our website too. We have seven stunning colours to choose from. As well as classic white, you can also choose the softer tones of Porcelain, Cashmere or Cream. If you fancy glossing up your kitchen in on-trend grey, we have two great tones, including the extremely popular. The stunning Anthracite completes the collection.
Which style is the winner?
The fact is, if you want to create a cutting edge look for your contemporary kitchen space, high gloss doors really are an ideal choice. Not only that, if you have a smaller space, they will make the space look much larger than it really is. Don’t forget, you can pick from a fantastic range of colours for cabinets and doors too.
On the other hand, if a classic and timeless design for your doors are what you have in mind for your new kitchen, there are few (if any) better options than a solid wood kitchen door. Remember, if you opt for solid oak, you really are making an investment in the future of your home. Wood is truly built to last.
If you would like any more help and guidance or you want to look at our full range, browse our website, come into the shop or, get in touch with the Kitchen Warehouse team.
