It’s the decision nobody warns you about – until you’re standing in the tile aisle, second-guessing everything. Matte or glossy? One promises a bold, high-shine finish that catches every glance. The other offers a soft, modern look but risks feeling flat if you’re not careful. Before you commit, it’s worth asking: do you want a space that dazzles, or one that quietly holds its own?
If in doubt, the best thing you can do is contact experienced remodeling contractors in Nichols Hills to help guide you toward the perfect choice.
Which tiles are better, glossy or matte?
It’s tempting to search for a definitive answer, but the truth is: there isn’t one.
Glossy tiles stand out. Their high-shine surface reflects light, making everything feel a little bigger, a little brighter. Put them in a small bathroom or behind a kitchen counter, and suddenly the whole space feels more open, more glamorous.
Matte tiles do the opposite, but in the best way. Their soft, understated finish absorbs light, creating a calm and grounding effect. They offer the kind of texture you can sense even if you’re not running your hands over it. In a minimalist kitchen space or a quiet, spa-like bathroom, matte finishes bring this subtle richness that leaves a strong impression.
Neither is better. They’re simply different languages of beauty: one speaks in light, the other in texture.
Can you put matte and gloss tiles together?
Not only can you mix them – you should if you’re chasing a look that’s daring yet refined.
It might not be the first thing that comes to mind, and that’s exactly why it works. Modern design thrives on the unexpected, and mixing finishes adds a layer of depth that single-finish spaces sometimes miss. This is an easy way to create visual rhythm without making the space feel busy. You can highlight certain areas or simply make a simple room feel more thoughtful and curated. Plus, this subtle contrast will help define zones in an open layout, draw attention to architectural features, or add a little extra artistry to your home.
How to do it and keep it modern and sophisticated?
The trick? Be intentional about it. Different textures, same color family, harmonious results.
1. Work within the same color family
Stick to a cohesive palette, for instance, charcoal with charcoal, ivory with ivory. Keeping your colors consistent lets the difference in texture take center stage. When colors stay in the same family, the subtle shifts between matte, glossy, rough, or smooth become much more noticeable and much more impactful.
2. Define zones
Keep things grounded with matte finishes on your main walls and floors, and let glossy tiles shine in the smaller spots like backsplashes, shower niches, or behind a tub. It’s a strategic balance between bold and subtle.
3. Play with scale and shape
Don’t just stick to basic square tiles. Try pairing glossy penny rounds with matte subway tiles, or framing a shiny rectangular strip with matte hexagons. Playing with shapes and textures instantly adds a whole new dimension to your space.
4. Choose grout wisely
Choosing a grout color that closely matches your tiles helps create a clean, cohesive look. If you want to make a statement, a contrasting grout color will definitely put the lines front and center.
Where can I find top-rated remodeling contractors in Nichols Hills?
You’re in the right spot. Ten Key Remodels has built a name in Nichols Hills and the area for a reason. Stuck between a double island or one big showstopper? Can’t decide if that perfect tile even exists? Wondering which color will actually make the space feel like you? We get it—and we’re ready to help. Our process takes the pressure off your shoulders, as our experienced interior designers do the hard work for you, narrowing down beautiful, practical options that match your style and the overall vision for your space. Just give us a call and we’ll come out, walk the space with you, and start pulling together a plan you’ll be excited about.