Which finish is on top in 2025 – gloss, matte or semi-matte?

The year 2025 introduces a new outlook on interior design and a noticeable shift in preferences for varnishes and finishes. In this article, we will explore the three most common finishing styles: gloss, matte, and semi-matte. We’ll review their features, strengths, and drawbacks, and reveal which option takes center stage in 2025.

 

Table of Contents
1. Introduction
2. Interior design trends and finish choices: gloss, matte, or semi-matte?
3. Gloss – luxury and light reflection
4. Matte – subtle, natural, and refined
5. Semi-matte – the perfect balance of function and style
6. The impact of varnish on the look and durability of natural cork
7. Summary
8. FAQ

 

Interior trends and the choice of varnish

In 2025, interior design is undergoing a redefinition that blends style with function. Selecting the right finish—whether gloss, matte, or semi-matte—has become a critical decision in shaping modern spaces.

How preferences are evolving in 2025

A few years back, high-gloss dominated interiors, especially in sleek, minimalist settings. Gleaming kitchen cabinets, polished doors, and shiny panels symbolized luxury and refinement. In 2025, however, the focus is shifting—people are turning more toward authenticity, subtle finishes, and visual harmony.

Key directions:

• Matte and semi-matte are on top – understated finishes are gaining in popularity for their refined look and versatile neutrality.

• Thoughtful design choices – selecting a finish is now a deliberate step, guided not only by appearance but also by functionality.

• Back to nature – as sustainable materials like natural cork, wood, and stone rise in popularity, more people opt for finishes that showcase their raw textures instead of concealing them.

 

Gloss – luxury and light reflection

Benefits of glossy finishes

• Enhancing dark rooms
  With its ability to reflect light, gloss is ideal for spaces with limited daylight. It creates an airy atmosphere and makes rooms feel larger.

• Sophistication and a modern vibe
  Glossy finishes suggest refinement and quality. They are a favorite in minimalist spaces, where smooth textures and simple forms gain extra dimension through light play.

• Premium appeal
  Gloss-finished kitchen units, coffee tables, or decorative accents lend interiors an upscale look, particularly when combined with refined materials such as glass, stone, or stainless steel.

Drawbacks of high-gloss finishes

• Emphasizing flaws
  Gloss highlights even the smallest scratches or irregularities, requiring meticulous preparation of the surface beforehand and careful upkeep over time.

• Smudges and fingerprints
  Glossy coatings are prone to visible signs of use, such as streaks, dust, or greasy fingerprints. In kitchens and on doors, this often means more frequent cleaning than with matte or semi-matte options.

• Potential to overwhelm
  Although gloss adds sophistication, too much of it can make interiors look artificial or overly stark. That’s why, in 2025, it is often balanced with matte or semi-matte elements to achieve a more inviting atmosphere.

 

Matte – natural, refined, and understated

Strengths of matte finishes

• Great for hiding imperfections
  Matte coatings are far better than gloss at concealing small surface issues such as scratches, dents, or uneven textures. This makes them an especially practical solution for frequently used furniture and everyday interior elements.

• Soft and contemporary look
  Matte aligns beautifully with today’s interior trends, which value calmness and minimalism. It delivers a sophisticated, toned-down effect without sharp contrasts or overpowering shine. The result is a space that feels balanced, modern, and serene.

• Perfect match with natural textures
  Matte finishes pair seamlessly with wood, natural cork, stone, and other textured surfaces. They highlight the authenticity of these materials and emphasize their organic charm. This makes matte a favorite among those who appreciate nature-inspired, minimalist interiors.

Limitations of matte finishes

The main drawback is that they tend to make spaces appear darker. Because matte surfaces reflect little light, they absorb much of it instead, which can make interiors feel smaller and less luminous.

This effect is most evident in:

• compact rooms with limited daylight,

• spaces dominated by darker palettes,

• designs featuring large expanses of matte surfaces.

This doesn’t mean matte must be avoided in such areas—an effective approach is to mix matte elements with glossy or semi-matte accents, which maintains the natural feel while adding brightness and liveliness to the room.

 

Semi-matte – striking the balance between style and practicality

Strengths of semi-matte finishes

• Highly adaptable
  Semi-matte performs well across a variety of surfaces—from flooring and furniture to walls. Its neutrality makes it suitable for almost any interior design style, whether contemporary minimalism or timeless classicism.

• Gentle light diffusion
  Unlike matte, semi-matte subtly reflects light, helping rooms feel larger without creating the intense “mirror-like” effect of high gloss. It’s a go-to choice for those seeking brightness combined with a natural aesthetic.

• Ease of upkeep
  Semi-matte is less high-maintenance than glossy finishes, as fingerprints, dust, and light scratches are less visible. This practicality makes it especially popular in areas with heavy daily use.

Drawbacks of semi-matte

• Less dramatic than gloss
  If the aim is maximum glamour or a striking visual statement, semi-matte may feel too subdued. For designs where brightness and shine are meant to dominate, high gloss is still the stronger option.

• Sometimes too understated
  In design styles that thrive on bold contrasts and strong visual accents, semi-matte may come across as overly restrained. That’s why designers often combine it with matte or gloss finishes to achieve more dynamic and engaging interiors.

 

How varnish influences the look and durability of natural cork

Contemporary design trends highlight sustainable materials and interiors inspired by nature. Natural cork embodies this idea perfectly, as it is:

• Eco-friendly – harvested from cork oak bark in a way that does not damage the tree,

• Comfortable – warm to the touch, soft, and pleasant underfoot,

• Functional – naturally antibacterial, with excellent thermal and acoustic insulation,

• Visually appealing – its organic texture and tones complement both modern and classic interiors.

What’s more, natural cork fits seamlessly into the principles of biophilic design, where interiors embrace natural inspiration and prioritize organic materials.

Finishing choices: gloss, matte, and semi-matte

Applying varnish to cork makes it possible to tailor its look and performance to specific design needs. In 2025, the three finishes most often used are:

• Gloss – enhances the natural grain of cork, adding depth and sophistication. A perfect match for contemporary interiors.

• Matte – suited for those who value simplicity and subtlety. It maintains the authentic look of the material, creating a calm and inviting atmosphere.

• Semi-matte – a middle ground between aesthetics and functionality. It reflects light softly, giving a fresh and elegant appearance while being easier to care for than full gloss.

 

Summary

Interior design in 2025 is defined by the pursuit of balance – between style and function, sophistication and naturalness. The choice of finish—gloss, matte, or semi-matte—is now one of the defining elements of design, shaping both the look and the comfort of a space.

Key insight: no single finish is universally perfect. Current trends show a clear move toward mixing different textures and varnishes, resulting in interiors that are personalized, durable, and timeless.

In essence, choosing between gloss, matte, and semi-matte in 2025 goes beyond fashion. It’s a thoughtful decision that defines style, enhances proportions, and ensures long-lasting comfort and durability.

 

FAQ

1. Which finish is the most popular in 2025?

In 2025, semi-matte is the go-to finish, as it combines the strengths of gloss and matte. It adds refinement to interiors while being functional and easy to maintain. At the same time, combining different finishes remains a popular approach—for example, matte fronts paired with glossy highlights.

2. Which finish complements natural materials like wood or cork the best?

When working with natural materials, matte and semi-matte are the most suitable options, as they highlight texture and natural tones. Matte offers subtlety and a soft-touch effect, while semi-matte provides lightness with gentle reflection. Gloss is best applied selectively for accenting.

3. Which finish best enlarges a space visually?

The strongest option is high gloss, as it reflects light and gives a sense of depth, making spaces appear larger. This is particularly effective in compact apartments and narrow corridors. For a softer version of the same effect, semi-matte serves as a reliable alternative.