Choosing the right cabinet finish is one of the most important steps when designing an IKEA kitchen. Should you go for high-gloss doors that reflect light and create a modern vibe, or matte finishes that feel calm, soft, and timeless?
This guide compares the most common IKEA cabinet finishes, using real-world examples. Each finish has unique advantages, and your choice will affect how the kitchen looks, feels, and functions over time.
High-gloss cabinet fronts have a smooth, shiny surface that reflects light across the room. IKEA offers this type of finish in styles like RINGHULT and VOXTORP and others.
Reflects both natural and artificial light
Makes small kitchens feel more spacious
Easy to wipe clean
Creates a bright, modern look
Shows fingerprints and smudges more easily
Glossy surfaces may highlight small scratches
Can cause glare under strong lighting
Matte cabinet fronts have a soft, non-reflective surface that absorbs light. IKEA offers matte finishes in styles like UPPLÖV and VEDDINGE among many others, ranging from sleek and modern to classic and traditional.
Reduces reflections and glare
Hides fingerprints and small marks better
Adds a warm, natural atmosphere
Works well in both modern and classic kitchens
Absorbs light, which can make dark colors feel heavier
Slightly harder to clean if the surface is textured
Grease stains may be more visible if not cleaned regularly
This is one of IKEA's most popular glossy kitchen options. The clean, flat front and highly reflective surface make it perfect for modern spaces. It reflects light beautifully and pairs well with wood, stone, or stainless steel details.
VOXTORP high-gloss has integrated handles and a sleek, minimalist look. The glossy finish adds depth and elegance to modern kitchens. It works well with light countertops and open-plan designs.
UPPLÖV has a velvety matte surface with a rich, solid color. It gives the kitchen a grounded, contemporary feel. It works especially well in combination with warm materials like wood or brass.
VEDDINGE is a smooth, frameless front in a clean matte white. It feels soft and timeless, perfect for Scandinavian-style kitchens. The matte surface helps diffuse light evenly and creates a calm, neutral background.
Your choice of finish affects how the kitchen interacts with light, colors, and shadows.
High-gloss finishes reflect light and create a sense of space. They work best in smaller kitchens or spaces with limited natural light.
Matte finishes absorb light and give the room a softer, more natural feel. They suit open-plan kitchens and homes with plenty of daylight.
Both options can look fantastic. The key is to think about how the finish will behave in your home's specific lighting and layout.
Here är a simplified comparison in plain text:
Choose high-gloss cabinets if:
You want a modern, light-reflecting look
Your kitchen is small or has limited daylight
You prefer a surface that's easy to wipe clean
You like sleek, contemporary design
Choose matte cabinets if:
You want a softer, more muted look
Your kitchen already gets good natural light
You prefer a surface that hides fingerprints and small scratches
You're going for a timeless or Scandinavian feel
Both high-gloss and matte IKEA kitchens offer beautiful, practical finishes for everyday life. The best choice depends on your home's lighting, your design style, and how much maintenance you're comfortable with.
At IKEA, you'll find a wide variety of cabinet styles in both gloss levels, from sleek RINGHULT to soft VEDDINGE and textured UPPLÖV. Mauritz has photographed over 140 IKEA kitchens in real showroom settings, showcasing the visual impact of both finishes in natural light and complete layouts.
Explore real kitchens, compare combinations, and let your lighting and lifestyle guide the final decision.
The IKEA HAVSTORP fronts bring a rich, deep green shade to the METOD kitchen system, instantly adding character and warmth to the space. The surface is matt with a subtle gloss level (NCS color code S 8005-G20Y, Gloss 10), giving it a refined finish that feels modern yet timeless.
When it comes to wardrobes, IKEA's PAX system is a long-time favorite for its flexibility and smart design. The new KAMMARTORP doors bring a fresh look to the series, combining practical storage with a modern mirrored finish.
If you're searching for a modern kitchen that combines sleek style with clever functionality, the VOXTORP series from IKEA is a standout choice. Known for its minimalist design and glossy fronts, VOXTORP offers a clean, reflective surface that makes any space feel larger and brighter.
If you're looking for a piece of storage furniture that feels both practical and stylish, the SÅGMÄSTARE cabinet from IKEA is worth a closer look. With its subtle light gray-blue finish, turned legs, and simple detailing, this cabinet bridges traditional charm with a modern Scandinavian design language.
The RAST 3-drawer chest from IKEA is a versatile and affordable piece of furniture that seamlessly blends functionality with the charm of natural pine. Its compact dimensions make it an excellent choice for smaller spaces, while its solid wood construction ensures durability and a timeless aesthetic.
This IKEA kitchen combines the industrial look of VÅRSTA stainless steel fronts with the clean white finish of RINGHULT cabinets. Together they create a bright and functional cooking space that works equally well in small apartments and larger homes. The design is minimal yet professional, inspired by restaurant kitchens but adapted for everyday...