- Design
GLOSS VS MATT
Whether to go gloss or matt? We get this question asked daily in the showroom and like to think that our 60 years of experience allows us to come up with some pretty good answers.
GLOSS TILES
PROS:
- Reflective & shiny surface – brightens rooms by bouncing light
- Makes spaces appear larger and more open
- Easy to clean (great for walls, splashbacks, bathrooms)
CONS:
- Slippery when wet – not ideal for floors in wet areas
- Shows smudges, water spots, and scratches more easily
BEST FOR: BATHROOMS WALLS, KITCHEN BACKSPLASHES, SMALL OR DARK SPACES
MATT TILES
PROS:
- Non-reflective, natural look – subtle and sophisticated
- Better slip resistance – safer for wet areas and floors
- Hides dirt, smudges, and wear better than gloss
CONS:
- May be slightly harder to clean, especially if textured
- Less light-reflective, so not great for dark, enclosed spaces
BEST FOR: BATHROOM FLOORS, LIVING AREAS, OUTDOOR ZONES, CONTEMPORARY OR RUSTIC STYLES
In short, there isn't really one right answer - it is personal preference. Matt tiles tend to give a more modern look, eliminate showing any smear marks and have a higher slip rating. Gloss tiles bounce light around the space, making the space feel bigger and have a smoother surface to clean.
We often recommend combining both:
Use matt tiles as your base for walls and floors, then elevate the design with a gloss feature wall or a classic subway tile for contrast and texture. Our motto is "keep it simple Simon", selecting a dominant matt tile that goes both wall and floor and then mixing up a feature wall or subway.
When it comes to vanities and benchtops, we recommend a matt surface to help mitigate visible scratches and wear over time. Then, pair it with a gloss splashback to reflect light and add visual contrast.
Our in-house library features a curated range of slab designs, all fabricated to elevate your space with precision and style.
Any questions let us know!
