Glossy Architype material decors

When selecting materials for interior finishes, it’s important to consider not only their pattern or colour, but also how the surface interacts with light. Glossy finishes can give the interior a touch of lightness, depth and elegance. They are often used in spaces where emphasising light and creating a sense of openness are key design goals. Architype offers a wide range of gloss finishes: from subtle, delicate shimmer to strong, almost mirror-like shine. This provides a multitude of design possibilities and allows you to find the right decor regardless of the style you choose.

Glossy decors attract attention primarily because of the way they interact with light. They brighten interiors and add a sense of lightness. When paired with well-designed lighting, they can visually expand the space. The effect is visible in both large and smaller rooms (here it is even more noticeable, as the space seems larger and more open). Gloss also enhances the depth of colour and highlights pattern details making the marble veining, mineral particles and subtle tonal transitions more expressive. However, it’s worth noting that glossy surfaces, particularly in darker shades, tend to show fingerprints and water marks more easily. Therefore, they require slightly more frequent care than matt materials.

Gloss works best where we want to emphasise the effect of light and give the interior a sense of lightness, i.e. in kitchens, bathrooms or open living spaces. In the kitchen, it can be used on countertops, fronts or wall cladding, creating an effect of cleanliness and freshness. In the bathroom, glossy surfaces near sinks or bathtubs reflect light and enhance the impression of spaciousness. Architype high-gloss materials are also ideal for public and commercial spaces, such as hotel lobbies, office reception areas or restaurant dining rooms, where they can create an impression of luxury and prestige. Large, shiny wall cladding or an exposed reception desk serve as an eye-catching backdrop and a strong accent that guests will remember. However, there are situations where ‘excessive gloss’ can be problematic. In a bright room with large windows, the sun reflecting off shiny surfaces may cause glare or interfere with screen visibility. Similarly, in a home office, a high-gloss tabletop next to a computer screen can create unwanted reflections. In such interiors, it is worth breaking up the gloss with matt elements, e.g. a wooden table, soft fabrics or a wall with a smooth finish, or arranging the glossy elements so that they do not reflect the sunlight entering the room.

Architype’s glossy finishes combine standout aesthetics with high performance. Whether we are talking about large ceramic slabs, quartz surfaces, acrylic solid surfaces or HPL slabs, all these materials are resistant to moisture, stains and mechanical damage, and their smooth, non-porous surface facilitates cleaning and hygiene. The glossy version has an additional advantage – it reflects light, which brings out the colour and pattern of the slabs. Thanks to a wide selection of decors, they can be matched to both elegant kitchens and bathrooms, as well as demanding commercial spaces where first impressions count. 

It’s important to keep in mind that gloss comes with specific care requirements. Water marks and fingerprints are more visible on darker surfaces. In practice, this simply means wiping the surface more often, especially in the kitchen or bathroom, i.e. the most heavily used rooms. This is, of course, not a disadvantage, but rather a feature that is worth considering when making your choice. A soft cloth and a mild detergent are best for surface care.

We recommend viewing glossy finishes in person – then you can clearly see how different types of lighting can affect their appearance. Visit our warehouse, where you can see different types of slabs, check out their gloss and take advantage of the knowledge of experts who will help you choose the perfect solution. We will also advise you on how to combine gloss with other textures to ensure that the whole is consistent and does not overwhelm the space.

Check also: Matt decors from Architype