There is something beautifully understated about a matte finish. It has a soft texture underfoot, a muted tone on the wall, and a design that comes with a finish that doesn’t seek attention but offers a pause. With homes getting more personal and demanding a sensory feel, matte finishes are now becoming a go-to style.
A matte surface, unlike its glossy counterpart, absorbs light instead of bouncing it back. That might seem like a small detail, but the effect on a space is dramatic, says Abhishek Somany, Managing Director and CEO, SOMANY Ceramics, New Delhi. “There’s a restraint in matte, it doesn’t compete with the rest of your interiors,” explains Somany. “It allows light to diffuse, gives the room a calm tone, and highlights texture over shine.” In recent times, gloss has come to represent opulence, while matt has stepped in as the flagbearer of contemporary elegance.”
It’s no more plain matte now. “We have moved from there. From rustic and satin textures to stone and wood-like surfaces, the choices today are surprisingly rich,” shares Somany. “You’ll find surfaces that feel like linen, grainy wood, or even stone, each with its own personality.”
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Somani shares reasons why matte finishes work in modern homes
Create softer light: Unlike gloss that reflects sharply, matte tiles soften incoming light, creating a warm, calm atmosphere ideal for relaxed, lived-in spaces like bedrooms or reading corners.
Offer natural texture: Today’s matte designs mirror stone, fabric, or wood grains. This subtle detailing adds a layer of quiet complexity and tactile interest that invites both touch and pause.
Blend without overpowering: Matte tiles work well with other materials like natural wood, concrete, or cane, creating harmony rather than competition in a thoughtfully styled space.
Less slippery: These finishes are less slippery, making them a practical choice for bathrooms, balconies, kitchens, and entryways, especially when safety and durability are priorities.
Support slow design: In a fast-moving world, matte finishes slow the visual rhythm. They give the eyes a place to rest and the mind a space to breathe.
Reduce glare indoors: With so many screens and light sources in our homes, matte finishes help cut visual noise by reducing harsh reflections and light bounce.
Age gracefully: Where gloss might show every smudge or scratch, matte hides imperfections better, ageing naturally without demanding constant upkeep.
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Bring in balance: Matte finishes are perfect for homes seeking warmth, balance, and mindful design that doesn’t shout for attention.
Work in every space: From minimalist urban homes to rustic holiday cottages, matte finishes adapt easily. “Perhaps the biggest draw is emotional. A matt surface doesn’t feel cold or mechanical,” Somany says. “It feels honest, touchable, lived-in. It makes a house feel like home.”
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