Review of glossy cabinets and their features

Deciding exactly what kind of façade a cabinet should have is not at all difficult if you have a precise understanding of what effect you want to achieve. Color, advantages, disadvantages and other features have a significant impact on the final choice. These parameters are also taken into account if a person intends to purchase high-gloss cabinets for his home.

Peculiarities

The main features of glossy cabinets directly depend on the material from which the coating is made:

• plastic - economical, resistant to household chemicals and increased temperature. Inability to correct minor faults and defects;
• film - low cost. Unpretentiousness regarding the detergents used. As temperatures rise and humidity increases, colors may fade and the film begins to peel off;
• paint and varnish - minor damage can be easily repaired, but if handled carelessly, there is a possibility that chips may form. A product with such a coating is highly expensive.

These brief descriptions will help you make a quicker choice, but keep in mind that glossy surfaces require special care. For example, when wiped with an ordinary dry cloth, such a coating becomes electrified and begins to attract dust.

Facades

Combined cabinet fronts look most advantageous. Such products are much easier to fit into interiors of various styles. Mirrors are located over the entire surface of the facade or on one of the sashes. In this case, design solutions can combine the following types of mirrors:

• classic - alternating regular and mirror surfaces;
• geometric - involves a combination of rectangles with other materials;
• diagonal - the facade is divided diagonally by a profile, the sides are made of different materials;
• sectoral - the door leaf is divided into sections, the design is carried out according to sketches;
• wave – original waves are created on the surface using profiles.

When choosing a wardrobe, it is important to pay attention to other interior elements, the size and purpose of the room. So, for the bedroom you should give preference to a mirror in the center of the product. With this design there will be enough light and visually free space. An additional retractable mirror can be placed inside the cabinet.

For the living room, a good option would be facades partially decorated with mirrors. This could be a wardrobe with photo printing or geometric design. For example, the top or bottom of the product is made of one material, and the remaining free part is filled with frosted glass and photo printing.

In the hallway, a wenge-colored wardrobe with a mirror is recommended to be placed along the wall. In this room, it is better to leave the mirror façade intact so that you can look at yourself in full height before leaving. One mirrored door will be enough; the material of the rest is selected depending on the style of the room.

Classical

Geometric

Diagonal

Sector

Wave

Advantages and disadvantages

Glossy facades have a significant list of advantages:

• effectiveness and beauty of appearance;
• the ability to reflect light falling on their surface, which visually expands and also brightens the room in which such a cabinet is located (the gloss acts almost like a mirror);
• wide range of color solutions;
• the ability to make the interior design as aesthetically pleasing as possible, softening rough lines and unexpected color schemes;
• easy surface cleaning.

In contrast to these positive aspects, there are also negative ones:

• the surface of the cabinet quickly gets dirty (including from accidental touches of fingers, splashes of water, oil, and so on). This drawback can be mitigated if you purchase a cabinet that has not a single color, but a speckled color (colored, gold or silver chips). It’s even better if the cabinet façade is done in dark colors;
• gloss is characterized by increased sensitivity to mechanical damage;
• to maintain the “marketable” appearance of the cabinet, it will have to be wiped at least twice a day;
• To care for a glossy façade, you have to use specialized detergents instead of regular detergents.

However, these shortcomings do not cause too much inconvenience, and therefore are not an obstacle to purchasing such cabinets.

Canvases of Santorini

The doors of Santorini will attract the eye regardless of their design:

• with transparent glass;
• with frosted or colored glass;
• with mirror;
• with a blank canvas.

What makes them elegant is the decor in the form of weaves, which are assembled by hand by our craftsmen. In the original version, Santorini was created with transparent glass. In this case, the glass can be beveled or without, as you wish. But it is not always convenient to have doors through which everything can be viewed. Therefore, we can modify the model according to your order, defining for each room its own degree of privacy.

For this project, not only the mirror facades of Santorini were made, but also various variations of doors. For example, double-leaf swing doors, which are located opposite each other: from the hallway to the corridor and from the corridor to the living room. Both doors are double doors with clear glass. Size: 1600x2700 mm and 1200x2700 mm (WxH). The second door seems to be recessed inside the opening. Opening depth 435mm. We made a frame for it. The result was a holistic and harmonious composition.

In the last photos you see single-leaf swing doors. The one with transparent glass has dimensions of 800x2400 mm (WxH) and a deep opening of 438 mm. Here you can clearly see how the frame of the opening is made. The second door with a blank panel leads to the bathroom. Its size is 700x2400 mm (WxH). Additionally equipped with a WS latch.

Material options

Several different materials are used to create a glossy cabinet surface. Each of them has its own differences, which is reflected in the properties of the finished product.

Film

Glossy PVC film is applied to MDF boards using the vacuum pressing method. This method can be called an economical option. The film coating exhibits a high degree of resistance to fading (except when exposed to direct sunlight) and damage.

This material is considered the most democratic. It is applied using a vacuum, which allows you to create a smooth, shiny surface. In terms of price, such products are relatively cheap, but their service life is short, and the film cannot be restored or restored. This gloss is not temperature resistant enough, so you should not place it too close to the stove or oven.

Plastic

One of the most economical options is plastic gloss. This application is not used for finishing chipboard and MDF boards. The cabinet covering is created using the postforming method (combined exposure to pressure and high temperature), and only the front part of the furniture is covered.

This version of glossy cabinets has a significant drawback - any damage that appears on them is practically impossible to correct. Only re-application of plastic can help in such a situation. However, the glossy plastic is quite durable and wear-resistant. Therefore, it does not need to be replaced very often.

Enamel (varnish)

The painting method is suitable mainly for MDF boards. At the first stage, the desired color is applied, and then the surface of the cabinet is covered with several layers of varnish, which allows you to achieve the desired effect.

This finishing method is quite labor-intensive. After applying each layer, you have to sand, prime, grind and dry the surface of the cabinet. But the end result is a completely smooth, blemish-free, glossy surface.

It is easier to get rid of minor damage on such cabinets than in the case of plastic. However, you still need to handle such cabinets carefully, avoiding scratches if possible. But despite all the shortcomings, this facade design option is considered the best today.

Door handles

Catalog of furniture handles

The choice of furniture handles is huge. However, they can be divided into push-button handles (one attachment point) and bracket handles and rail handles (two attachment points). If the handle has two attachment points, then the distance between them is usually a multiple of 32mm - for example, 96, 128, 160, 192, etc. To install handles, holes are made in the facade, usually 6 mm (in the profile itself or in the glass). In the facade drawing you need to indicate the location of the handle. Usually the handles are located at least 25 mm from the edge of the facade. It is not advisable to place the handle attachment point at the joint of the profile in the corner. To ensure that the glass does not come into contact with the metal where the handle is attached, we use special plastic bushings. For façade aluminum profiles, a mounting angle is placed in the corner, so the mounting hole for the handle must be located at a distance of at least 70 mm from the corner of the façade.

What styles is it suitable for?

Using glossy cabinets in rooms with similar types of ceilings is a bad decision. Glossy furniture looks quite advantageous only if it is framed with matte surfaces and calm colors. An interesting option is when the upper part of the furniture set (cabinets) is covered with gloss, and the lower part (tables, bedside tables, etc.) does not have a glossy surface.

Another not very harmonious combination is gloss and bright patterns, as well as textured protrusions on a glossy surface. Cabinets that demonstrate smoothness and shine will fit perfectly into a room decorated according to one of the modern design styles: modern, loft, high-tech, and so on.

You always need to remember one significant limitation - gloss should not be present in excess.

The shine of smooth facades combines perfectly with objects made of natural materials: stone, solid wood. Glass corners add special sophistication to glossy cabinets.

Depending on the color, cabinets with a shiny front can create different effects:

• white - allows you to visually expand the space (suitable for rooms with a small area), harmonizes well with any other colors, fits into any style (from classic to minimalism), combines with chrome, wood and glass elements;
• beige - makes the room more comfortable and calm, has a variety of different shades, looks good in combinations with other colors;
• black - adds sophistication, easily combined with rich and bright shades, creates a feeling of technology, does not go well with glossy black of the opposite (cold or warm) shade.

The gloss of more characteristic colors is also actively used. Shades of red convey a feeling of activity and assertiveness, while green conveys peace and tranquility (suitable for country style or classic design). Fans of avant-garde style and any unusual solutions should take a closer look at the combination of yellow and purple.

How to choose a glossy wardrobe

Before purchasing, consider the purpose of the room, compliance with the interior of the home, and think about the location. When choosing between gloss and other decor, rely on unspoken rules:

• The gloss catches the eye and attracts attention, so it is best suited for the living room. Choose large, full-wall, symmetrical models with open space, a shelving system, and shelves semi-covered with opaque glass or mirror.
• The excellent ability to reflect light and expand space allows the use of milky gloss in a narrow hallway. For example, a model with two spacious compartments and maximum content: shelves for small items, drawers for shoes, hooks for outerwear.
• Don't place a glossy wardrobe opposite the bed in the bedroom: it will create a feeling of coldness, and the glare can cause anxiety. It’s better to buy a model with rounded side compartments, partially decorated with a mirror.
• Not for a child's room - dirt and dust are clearly visible on the surface, and frequent washing shortens the life of the furniture. The best option is a finish with small glossy elements, shelves for toys and photographs. Or modular transforming cabinets that allow you to change the arrangement of elements.
• Gloss is appropriate in the kitchen - it will distract attention from the oversaturation of the room with objects and expand the space. But such a surface requires careful care, so take a cabinet with a plastic coating. A good option is modular furniture, which can be easily remodeled if necessary.

Pastel colors of a glossy cabinet

5 universal, practical models for any room

How to care

To process plastic gloss, only mild detergents can be used, otherwise there is a risk of discoloration of the surface of the cabinet. The best option is to clean the surface with a solution of laundry soap. Varnish and film gloss should be washed with non-abrasive substances (for example, glass cleaner, but soapy water will also work), and wiped dry with microfiber material (this will avoid the appearance of streaks).

All concentrated cabinet cleaners must be diluted. The best solution would be to use a specialized wax or paste designed for caring for kitchen furniture. Wax used to polish wooden furniture, on the contrary, will cause the cabinet to dull, and dirt will stick faster than it can be washed off. Due to corrosive, solvent-based products containing chlorine or alcohol, glossy surfaces will begin to fade. All powdered cleaning products, as well as hard sponges, will almost immediately remove all shine from the surface of the cabinet.

Kinds

There are several types of wardrobes:

1. The built-in wardrobe is mounted between the walls or placed in a niche. This structure has no floor and roof.
2. The case version may have different dimensions, the number of doors also varies. Such models are placed near the wall.

Methods for repairing sliding wardrobes, step-by-step instructions, recommendations
The shape of the wardrobe can be angular or linear. The first option is placed exclusively in the corner, which allows for more efficient use of the room area. Such structures are made in the form of a triangle with two doors; L-shaped models are popular (often with a large number of doors). There is also a trapezoidal cabinet, which is more spacious.

The linear model is located in a straight line along the wall. Such furniture can be equipped with a different number of doors. Designers still advise placing a moderate number of mirrors. It is better to combine such surfaces with inserts made of leather, bamboo, frosted glass, and photo printing. Otherwise, the room may create an uncomfortable atmosphere.

Hull

Built-in

Straight

Angular

Selection rules

When choosing a cabinet, you should consider not only the appearance, but also the contents, especially if this will be the only storage system in the apartment. Also, when choosing such a cabinet, you should consider the following factors:

• Both light and bright options are suitable for the bedroom. In a small room, a glossy cabinet should be installed along the wall. For a spacious bedroom, you can consider the option of a built-in model. Cabinets with patterns on a glossy facade look good;
• The nursery should be made in bright colors. As an option, you can apply images of fairy tale characters or original patterns to the glossy façade;
• a light glossy cabinet will help expand the space, while black gloss will reduce it;
• since gloss does not really like interacting with moisture, it is better to choose similar cabinets for the kitchen only as wall-mounted structures;
• in the hallway, a glossy cabinet will go well with a mirror on the facade.

What to remember

Before you go to the store for your new glossy wardrobe, think about what effect you want to achieve from its purchase:

• Consider a dark three-door model for a spacious room, and a white or gray gloss will visually expand a narrow hallway.
• If there are many children in the apartment, it is better to take a wardrobe with a matte surface that does not leave fingerprints.
• The gloss looks great in the kitchen, but you will have to wash it more often due to food fats settling on the facades.
• The best materials in accordance with price and quality are plastic and high-gloss enamel.

To safely choose an excellent wardrobe, consider your needs, the size of your apartment and your budget, as well as the influence of color and texture on the result.

Photo

Wardrobe with a mirror front in the interior - specifics and advantages

A mirrored cabinet has many advantages:

In the next article we will talk about the topic - a wardrobe with swinging doors built into a niche. Let's try to describe this topic in more detail.

• Visual expansion of space. This principle only works if the room is reflected in the mirror. More precisely, its free part. The method will not work in a very narrow and long corridor;
• Gentle diffusion of light. Small beam lights and very bright lights are harmful to the eyes. Therefore, it is recommended to place mirror facades opposite or on the side of large windows. Small lighting sources (sconces, bedside lamps, floor lamps) are also best placed close to it. Due to this rule, there will be no “blind” dark areas in the room;
• High decorating abilities. Applying a pattern to the surface or equipping it with lighting can qualitatively correct the appearance of ordinary mirrors;
• A wardrobe with a mirror will free you from unnecessary furniture. In the bedroom or hallway there will be no need to hang large and heavy wall or floor options.

There are also disadvantages. Reflective surfaces require constant and painstaking cleaning. Dust, stains, streaks, and also your “fingers” are clearly visible on them. It is difficult to clean all this without the use of special tools. You also have to use specialized cleaning wipes.

Plus, the mirror significantly makes the door heavier, because its weight is added to the key material of the door. Use reinforced fittings. And in addition, the reflector can be broken. To avoid cuts, choose reinforced sheets covered on the inside with shockproof films.

If you are concerned about the theme of a wardrobe built into the hallway with swinging doors. Follow the link.

Rules for locating a cabinet with a mirror front in a room interior

By request, the next note will be on the topic - a wardrobe built into a niche with swinging doors. We believe you will like it.

Placing a cabinet with mirrors is not easy. To create the desired effect, take into account several rules:

• There is no need to place such furniture in a narrow passage. The reflective wall will create the effect of a labyrinth with tunnels. It's bad and will get on your nerves;
• Not suitable for cabinets located in the center. This is especially true for round models. They will visually break the room into many small ones. Another 1 effect that puts pressure on the nervous system;
• The light should come from the side. Direct light sources directed specifically at the mirror will create blinding glare (“bunnies”);
• Such an element is always attached taking into account the height of adults. For kids, get their own personal mirror in which they will feel comfortable looking;
• For the bathroom, options with reinforced amalgam are chosen (preferably a mixture of silver and titanium). The usual will turn black and stained in a short time.

Types of decor for cabinet mirrors

Various options for cabinet mirrors can be decorated in several ways:

In the next article we will talk about the topic of purchasing a closet with louvered doors. Let's try to describe this topic in more detail.

• Satinate. May be colorless or tinted. The surface is chemically etched until it loses its reflective ability;
• Patterned. The surface is etched with a specified pattern. Part of the surface fully retains its shine and forms a key pattern, while another space becomes milky;
• Foil film. Polished matte metal is often decorated with a pattern of shiny film, which can be colored;
• Volumetric internal pattern. First, glass with a relief pattern is formed. It can be painted. The final step is to apply the amalgam;
• Matting by sandblasting. A pattern is applied to the surface according to a given shape. The dullness appears due to a large number of compact notches and scratches;
• Stained glass. The least expensive pleasure. In most cases, up to 12 materials of different types can take part in the process. The drawing is colored with halftones, voluminous and quite accurate.

Mirror cabinet lighting

If you really want to assemble a backlight, you need to take into account several fundamental points:

• Halogen. It gets hot and quite hot. If placed on a reflective surface, it will ruin it. She doesn't like overheating. A fire starts in the middle of the cabinet. The light is very bright and sudden. Even the dispersion effect will not help here. And if you position the lamp incorrectly, you will most likely receive microtrauma to the iris or temporary blindness. Very sensitive to changes in mains voltage. Because of these jumps, it quickly becomes unusable. By all accounts, this is not an acceptable option;
• Fluorescent lamps. Feel free to choose them. The light is very soft and does not heat up. They serve for a very long time;
• Light emitting diodes. They emit a pointed bright light. Combined with a mirror, it's pretty bad. The heating is calm, making it non-hazardous. Dear ones, they are also asking for the installation of a special transformer with a pulse operating principle. In this regard, it is better to give preference to the luminous tape.

It is best to place it on top or on both sides. This is a good option that will not have a glare effect.