Everything we know about Farrow & Ball’s new ultra-matt finish and how to use it

For many years, glossy surfaces were the dominant aesthetic in interior design, with reflective finishes on kitchen counters, lacquered wardrobes, and marble floors symbolizing luxury. These high-shine materials were favored for their ability to reflect light and create a sense of opulence, making them popular in both residential and commercial spaces. However, design preferences are dynamic, and a new, more subdued aesthetic has emerged as the latest trend: matte finishes. These finishes are now considered the epitome of luxury, offering a sophisticated and contemporary appeal that is both understated and refined. Matte finishes seamlessly integrate with current design palettes, whether in Scandinavian-inspired homes, modern Indian apartments, or boutique workspaces, providing an adaptable and harmonious visual experience. When paired with woodgrains, matte textures soften the wood's appearance and enhance its natural warmth, making them a popular choice for kitchens, wardrobes, and living areas where wood is a primary material. Matte is also an ideal partner for the increasingly popular pastel colors such as sage, pink, lavender, and blue. These gentle hues appear richer and more velvety on matte surfaces, preventing them from looking childish and instead giving them a more elevated and mature feel. Furthermore, matte finishes elevate neutral tones like beige, cream, greige, mushroom, and charcoal, giving them a plush, tactile quality that contributes to a polished, composed, and visually balanced space. Unlike glossy surfaces, matte finishes diffuse light rather than reflecting it, resulting in softer, warmer interiors that are well-suited for modern homes. The increasing preference for matte finishes signifies a broader cultural shift towards interiors that evoke a sense of calm, groundedness, and refinement, moving away from overtly flashy aesthetics. Matte surfaces embody this understated elegance, where luxury is expressed subtly. They convey an intentionality that speaks to a homeowner's refined taste and appreciation for craftsmanship and subtle expressiveness over ostentatious displays. This trend is evident across various product categories, including paints, with brands like Birla Opus offering matte-finish emulsions that provide rich color depth and a velvety, premium look without reflective glare, creating a timeless and contemporary appeal. A common misconception about matte finishes is their perceived difficulty in maintenance, with concerns that their textured surfaces might trap oil, fingerprints, and dust more readily than smooth, glossy alternatives. However, advancements in technology and research have dispelled this notion. Modern engineered materials are now designed to be non-porous, hygienic, stain-resistant, and highly durable, often surpassing the performance of glossy finishes. For example, Specta Quartz Surfaces offers matte quartz slabs that are non-porous and resistant to heat, stains, scratches, and heavy use, making them practical for Indian homes. Many brands now feature matte options with anti-fingerprint technology, micro-scratch resistance, and long-term durability. Matte textures find practical application in living rooms, where matte wall paints create a soft, uninterrupted visual field by diffusing light, making them ideal behind sofas or TV units. This eliminates glare and enhances visual comfort. Storage and furniture are also embracing this shift; glossy wardrobes, bedside units, and side tables can be updated with matte laminates, transforming them into modern, understated pieces that integrate seamlessly into a room without dominating it. The muted texture allows the form and color of these pieces to take center stage, contributing to a more refined and contemporary look. In kitchens, matte finishes are favored for their elegance and practicality. Matte quartz countertops, backsplashes, and kitchen islands are increasingly popular, offering the luxurious look of stone without reflective glare. They provide a warmer, more architectural aesthetic and a premium user experience. These diverse applications demonstrate why matte finishes have become the modern standard for luxury, offering a tactile yet durable, expressive yet subtle, and visually rich aesthetic that aligns with contemporary preferences for relaxed, thoughtfully designed spaces over ostentatious, high-gloss displays. #MatteFinishes #LuxuryDesign #InteriorDesignTrends #HomeDecor #UnderstatedElegance #ModernInteriors #DesignPalettes #KitchenDesign #LivingRoomDesign

The article explores the growing trend of anti-fingerprint surfaces in the furniture and decorative materials industry. These surfaces, also known as super matte, ultra matte, or soft touch, are gaining significant attention for their aesthetic appeal and functional benefits across various applications, from TFL, 3DL, HPL, to newer variants like polypropylene and PET. Historically, decorative laminates aimed for durability and ease of care, leading to the prevalence of stipple, pebble, or pearl finishes. While these textures reduced visible scratches, they often compromised the clarity of designs and created an artificial appearance. The current innovation in anti-fingerprint technology represents a significant evolution, offering a smooth, luxurious feel similar to a high-quality laptop touchpad, combined with practical advantages. One of the primary benefits highlighted is the reduced need for cleaning, particularly in high-traffic environments like multi-family residential buildings. Designers and material experts note that these finishes maintain a cleaner, fresher look for cabinets and other surfaces, which is highly valued for both aesthetic upkeep and maintenance efficiency between tenants or in model units. Beyond functionality, these surfaces enhance the visual depth and richness of woodgrain and solid-color laminates. The interaction with light is particularly notable, bringing new dimensions to dark colors, especially black, which traditionally accentuates fingerprints and smudges. This blend of design and function is attributed to advancements in surface texture technology. The term "haptics" is introduced to distinguish the tactile feel of a surface from its visible texture, emphasizing the importance of touch in perceiving material quality. The article notes that the part of the brain dedicated to interpreting touch and pressure is significantly large, underscoring the deep impact of tactile experiences. The mechanics behind anti-fingerprint technology, specifically DTS’s "clean touch" solution under its ELESGO surfaces brand, are explained. ELESGO, which stands for electron-beam cured surface, utilizes a mechanical solution involving nano peaks and valleys. This microscopic structure minimizes the surface area that can be touched, causing oils and dirt to settle into the valleys and effectively disappear from view. Cleaning these surfaces, when necessary, is simplified to using a microfiber cloth with household cleaner or a Magic Eraser-type sponge. These electron-beam cured transparent or pigmented acrylic resins are available as lacquer-free films for existing laminate presses or with hotmelt backing for conventional veneer and molding presses or roll hot laminating machines. The technology not only provides anti-fingerprint properties but also offers high scratch resistance and can be engineered for chemical, bacterial, and heat resistance, making them suitable for diverse applications, including exterior building facades and outdoor flooring. The versatility extends to producing a wide range of textures from high gloss to various woodgrains, stones, and metals. The article concludes by observing that while anti-fingerprint surfaces remain a dominant trend, high-gloss finishes are also re-emerging, often used as visual accents to complement the softer matte textures. Sustainable manufacturing practices are also a key focus, with electron-beam curing requiring minimal power and producing food-safe, fully crosslinked materials without solvents or formaldehyde. These methods offer durability, ease of care, and minimal waste, making them an attractive option for contemporary design and manufacturing. #AntiFingerprintSurfaces #SurfaceTechnology #Haptics #MaterialInnovation #InteriorDesign #FurnitureManufacturing #ElectronBeamCuring #SustainableMaterials #MatteFinish

Lacquered finishes are experiencing a significant resurgence in home design, offering a versatile aesthetic that can elevate various interior styles, from modern to traditional. These highly reflective surfaces introduce a sense of luxury, depth, and dimension to a space. Designers like Sarah Jefferys of Sarah Jefferys Architecture and Interiors, Challie Stillman, vice president of creative at Resource Furniture, and Aurora Espinoza, a designer at Kutchenhaus Doral and nobilia, highlight the numerous benefits of incorporating lacquer into home decor. One of the primary advantages of lacquered finishes is their luminous quality. The glossy surface reflects light, which can make a room appear brighter and more spacious, contributing to a heightened sense of luxury and a contemporary feel. While often associated with bold, statement colors, lacquers in subdued neutrals can also achieve a polished, modern aesthetic. Beyond their visual appeal, lacquered finishes are also practical; their smooth surface is easy to clean and maintain, making them a functional choice for busy households. Lacquered finishes are adaptable to diverse design contexts. In traditional homes, they can be used to emphasize intricate details like plaster moldings, enhancing the beauty of historic architectural elements. For transitional or eclectic spaces, lacquered pieces introduce a contemporary shine without overwhelming the existing decor. The glamorous and geometric style of Art Deco, for instance, naturally aligns with the use of shiny lacquered surfaces. Experts recommend several ways to integrate lacquered finishes throughout the home. Lacquered cabinetry in kitchens and bathrooms creates a streamlined, high-end look, especially when paired with stainless steel or natural stone countertops. These cabinets can also contribute to a sense of wellness by maximizing natural light. For those hesitant to commit fully, accent furniture and decor, such as lacquered trays, picture frames, coffee tables, or sideboards, offer subtle pops of shine and a taste of the trend. Wall paneling, particularly an accent wall in an entryway or dining room, can add depth and elegance. Architectural details like interior doors, moldings, and built-ins also benefit from a glossy finish, making a strong architectural statement and introducing color while utilizing the reflective properties of lacquer. Successful integration of lacquered finishes hinges on balance. To achieve a cohesive and stylish look, it's advisable to start with smaller pieces to understand how lacquer interacts with light and texture in a specific space. Embracing color with high-gloss lacquer can create a rich, luxurious, and adventurous statement, though neutral lacquers also offer sophistication. Pairing high-gloss surfaces with matte textures like wood or natural stone helps to prevent a space from feeling over-polished, creating a fresh, contemporary, and multi-layered aesthetic. Careful consideration of lighting is crucial to avoid harsh glare; soft, diffused, or indirect lighting, such as custom-designed light coves, is recommended. Highlighting architectural features with lacquer can naturally boost a room's inherent style. Lastly, moderation is key to avoid overwhelming a space, though a bold, monochromatic design statement can be achieved by covering an entire room in lacquer, offering an elegant "wow factor." #LacqueredFinishes #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #DesignTrends #HighGloss #ModernAesthetic #ArchitecturalDetails #HomeStyling

The selection of backsplashes and countertops represents a pivotal aspect of kitchen design, blending aesthetic appeal with functional necessity. While backsplashes offer extensive creative freedom to establish a kitchen's mood or reflect a client's persona, countertops, despite their practical role, contribute significantly to the overall beauty of the space. When these two elements are harmonized, they elevate the kitchen's design to an exceptional level. This article compiles insights from various designers who share their projects, demonstrating how backsplashes and countertops collaboratively create visually pleasing and highly functional kitchens. Genevieve Trousdale, principal designer at Circa Genevieve, emphasizes integrating nature into kitchen designs. She often uses natural stone, such as Elegant Brown Leather quartzite countertops, and stained oak cabinetry. The quartzite, with its brown, taupe, and deep-sea green hues, provides a grounding yet seductive horizontal surface. Custom oak cabinetry, featuring mullions designed to resemble a mountain range, complements the natural theme. Frosted glass in the upper cabinets mimics the sky, enhancing the outdoor ambiance. The backsplash, hand-painted with an olive tree on glossy white ceramic tiles, further extends the nature theme, symbolizing the client's desire for a unique kitchen that brings the outdoors in. An adjacent wall showcases a single olive branch with a bird, along with a metal pot rack for copper pots, adding both storage and display. The versatility of the white tile also allows for varied design treatments, as seen in another project where metal accents are used with the same tile. Lauren DeBello of Lauren DeBello Interiors notes the rising popularity of zellige tile for backsplashes due to its handmade, unique texture and timeless appeal. While white and ivory are common requests, DeBello successfully incorporated blush-colored zellige tile for a client seeking a 'wow' kitchen with a touch of pink. The tile is extended from countertop to ceiling on the focal wall, with floating shelves accentuating the height. White cabinetry and Vadara's Carrara quartz countertops, featuring subtle gray veining, ensure the backsplash remains the central design element. DeBello highlights quartz's durability and ease of maintenance as key reasons for its popularity among her clients. She also advocates for extending countertop material to the backsplash for a sophisticated, easy-to-clean look, and finds pleasure in assisting clients with these crucial selections. Rebekah Zaveloff, design director and co-founder of KitchenLab Interiors, employs a holistic approach to material selection, considering the overall vibe of the kitchen. She evaluates light and dark tones, colors, and the 'language' of each material, ensuring a balanced design where statement pieces are complemented by quieter elements. Zaveloff observes current trends such as zellige and hand-painted terracotta tiles, as well as marble with brass inlays and multi-stone mosaics. Antiqued mirror is also used in butler's pantries for light reflection. Full-height quartzite or marble backsplashes remain popular for modern projects. She prioritizes honest conversations with clients about material characteristics and maintenance to guide them toward informed decisions, especially concerning materials like marble. In older homes, Zaveloff often creates layered looks by mixing materials like natural stone, ceramic tile, and beadboard. An example includes a renovated 1890s home with Carrara marble countertops, a butcher block island, and a painted brick wall with subway tile, aiming for vintage authenticity. Mel McDaniel, founder of Mel McDaniel Design, encourages clients to prioritize personal happiness over trends in finish selections. In one project, she designed an eclectic French kitchen with vibrant colors and patterns, including black painted cabinets, a black and white checkered floor, and a rich blue True refrigerator. A New Ravenna Kelp Forest Alexandrite mosaic tile backsplash in blues and greens served as a unique focal point. McDaniel emphasizes that backsplashes can be a canvas for special design elements. For bold backsplashes, she recommends quieter countertop materials like quartz or natural stone, ensuring durability and easy maintenance. In this instance, Cambria Portrush quartz, with its soft white foundation and navy veins, was chosen to complement the striking backsplash. McDaniel sometimes starts with the backsplash to fully explore its design potential, recognizing its significant role in defining the kitchen's vibe. Erin Judge, studio director and senior designer at Kelle Contine Interior Design, focused on authenticity and raw materials for a new-construction home. In the kitchen, visible steel beams, wood accents, and concrete floors set the tone. A blackened steel ventilation hood, flanked by hidden cabinets, is contrasted by a small stack mosaic tile backsplash from Ann Sack’s Savoy Collection. The metallic glaze and Graphite colorway of the tile provide shimmer and texture, while its smaller scale balances the hood's heft. Caesarstone’s Organic White quartz countertops, with a waterfall edge on an 11-foot island, offer a soft white, consistent surface without excessive veining, meeting the client's preference for understated finishes. Judge notes the popularity of durable, low-maintenance quartz and quartzite. She often extends countertop material to the backsplash for a clean, contemporary look, especially with bold veining or texture. Porcelain slabs are also gaining traction for their varied textural patterns beyond natural stone, offering design flexibility and durability. #Backsplashes #Countertops #KitchenDesign #InteriorDesign #NaturalStone #Quartzite #ZelligeTile #HomeRenovation #DesignTrends

Choosing the right paint finish is as crucial as selecting the perfect color for any painting project. The sheen of the paint significantly influences its appearance, durability, and ease of maintenance. This guide explores five common paint finishes—flat, eggshell, satin, semi-gloss, and high-gloss—detailing their characteristics, ideal applications, and limitations. Expert insights from Krystal Mindeck, Senior Product Manager at HGTV Home by Sherwin-Williams, and Hannah Yeo, Color Marketing and Development Manager at Benjamin Moore, provide a comprehensive understanding of each finish. Flat paint, also known as matte paint, has virtually no gloss and excels at concealing surface imperfections like cracks and nail holes. It also effectively tones down bold colors, making them feel more subdued in low-light environments. However, its porous texture makes it difficult to clean and less durable, as scrubbing can damage the finish. Consequently, flat paint is best suited for low-traffic areas such as ceilings, dining rooms, and bedrooms, where its ability to hide flaws is prioritized over washability. Eggshell paint offers a subtle sheen, resembling an egg's shell, marking a slight increase in gloss from flat paint. This finish is more washable and durable than flat paint, striking a balance between low-luster appearance and practical resilience. It resists stains better than flat paint, making it a versatile option for medium-traffic areas like hallways, kids' bedrooms, living rooms, and laundry rooms. When uncertainty arises about the appropriate finish, eggshell is often recommended due to its all-around subtle shine and enhanced durability, though it is not as effortlessly cleanable as glossier options. Satin paint sits in the middle of the shine spectrum, offering a noticeable gloss. It is highly washable, scrub-resistant, and durable, surpassing eggshell in these attributes. This makes satin an excellent choice for busier areas in the home, including kitchens, bathrooms, laundry rooms, living rooms, and hallways. While easy to clean, its subtle gloss means it will not hide surface imperfections as effectively as flat or eggshell paints, and any flaws may become more apparent. Semi-gloss paint provides a high-sheen finish that cures to a smooth, furniture-like surface. Its luminous quality accentuates architectural details and adds dimension to a space. However, its high light reflectance means it will highlight any surface imperfections, making it unsuitable for uneven surfaces. Semi-gloss is commonly used for trim, doors, millwork, cabinets, and furniture, prized for its durability and aesthetic appeal in high-traffic areas where a sleek, polished look is desired. High-gloss paint boasts the most shine among all finishes, reflecting the most light and creating a mirror-like appearance with a stunning, elegant sheen. It is exceptionally durable and the easiest to clean, making it ideal for the most high-traffic areas such as trim, doors, millwork, cabinets, furniture, and wainscoting. Designers often leverage high-gloss paint to feature a wall, create a unique atmosphere, or add a luxurious accent, such as applying a higher sheen of the same wall color to the ceiling. It is also used to achieve a lacquer-like finish on accent furniture or kitchen cabinets. Similar to semi-gloss, high-gloss paint should only be applied to perfectly smooth surfaces, as its intense reflectivity will magnify any flaws. #PaintFinishes #HomeImprovement #InteriorDesign #PaintingTips #DecoratingGuide #DIYHome #SheenTypes #SurfacePreparation #PaintDurability