Veneer, lacquer, solid wood, glass or decorative surfaces: materials that shape the character of an interior.
Choosing a cabinet front is about more than colour. Its material, feel and relationship with light define the atmosphere of a kitchen, dressing room or library. During a home visit, we consider these options in your own light and for your own needs, with samples in hand.
The material
Six ways to finish a front.
Wood veneer
A thin layer of real wood on a stable substrate. Walnut, oak and other fine species each have their own grain. Grain direction and matching are considered during design.
Lacquer
A smooth, even surface with a precise look. Lacquer offers a broad palette, from matt to gloss. Fingerprints and fine scratches may show more on certain colours and finishes.
Solid wood
Wood through the full thickness, with natural variations. Oak, walnut and other species evolve over time; their natural movement must be allowed for in the design.
Glass
Clear, smoked, tinted or frosted, glass adds depth and reveals a glimpse of what is inside. A frame and integrated lighting can complement glazed dressing-room or library fronts.
Decorative & technical surfaces
Melamine and laminate offer wood-look, stone-look and plain surfaces. A wood-look decor is not real wood veneer: judge the finish from a sample.
Relief & texture
Fluting, grooves and pronounced grains bring a front to life through light and touch. Their relief calls for particular care in cleaning and installation direction.
The light
One material, different expressions.
Matt, satin and gloss describe how a surface reflects light. Textured describes its grain or relief instead: the choices can be combined.
Matt
Absorbs light for a quiet presence. Depending on surface and colour, fingerprints can remain visible.
Satin
A gentle reflection between matt and gloss, adding nuance without a mirror effect.
Gloss
Reflects light and enhances colour depth; reflections and marks are more apparent.
Textured
Grain or relief adds tactile rhythm and changes appearance with the light.
These images are illustrative: grain, colour and finish are selected from real samples in the light of your own interior.