7 Reasons to Include a Little Gloss in Your Decor

There are several reasons you should consider working chic glossy surfaces into your interior. They can add the illusion of more space, lift a lackluster design scheme and be easy to clean. Here are more reasons to embrace the goodness of gloss.

1. Gloss gives an accent wall (or ceiling) extra oomph. Introduce some gloss to your interior, and you can bet the high-shine surface will attract attention. Paint your walls (or even a single accent wall) in attention-grabbing high-gloss paint, like the dramatic black shade above. Then accessorize the rest of the space with furniture and furnishings in matte or textured finishes, so the striking wall treatment can shine.



Consider applying glossy paint or another high-shine treatment to your ceiling. Play it safe and stick with a high-shine surface in classic white or a neutral hue, or opt for a bold, punchy colour that reflects your personality, like the playful orange ceiling in the nursery above.

Ceiling paint: Eurolux Light Orange BS557, Fine Paints of Europe


Add another layer of visual punch by throwing a stop-and-stare pattern into the mix, like the shiny striped floor above.


2. It adds interest without your having to introduce color. Introducing glossy finishes is a great way to add visual interest if you are color-shy and want to stick with a pared-down neutral palette. It’s also worth considering if you don’t want to add more hues to a room that’s already lively and loud. This chic, contemporary kitchen is a study in how high-gloss surfaces can transform the look of an otherwise neutral space. Pick one key panel to showcase (cabinet, island feature panel, countertop) and let it sing.


3. It makes life easier. Thanks to their high-shine, wipe-right-off finish, glossy surfaces are a cinch to clean, which makes them ideal for households with tiny tots who have a tendency to touch things, and high-traffic areas like the kitchen and bathroom. To clean your glossy cabinets, walls or backsplash, wipe the surface with a damp cloth and then go over it again with a microfiber cloth to remove any lingering dust, lint or water marks.


While high-gloss finishes are easy to clean, reflective surfaces do tend to accentuate flaws like fingerprints, scratches, dust and other marks. If this is a deal-breaker for you, try a semigloss finish or a high-shine wood or patterned surface instead, as these are more forgiving and will camouflage imperfections.


Glossy paints and surfaces are not only a breeze to clean but they’re usually resistant to water, so it’s no wonder these finishes are often used in the bathroom and kitchen — spaces where splashes, drips, spills and a build-up of steam occur on a daily basis. High-shine paints and materials are also extremely durable and can withstand bumps and daily cleaning, which also makes them an ideal choice for woodwork and cabinetry, as well as doors and door trim, which get knocked and banged around, too.

Keep in mind that ultraglossy paints and materials are more durable than semigloss or satin surfaces with less sheen. This may influence where and how you use these finishes in your home.


4. It adds glamour. There’s something about the smooth, lustrous look of glossy surfaces that speaks of glamour and luxury. If you want an opulent, timeless interior, decorate your space with furniture in shiny black or white finishes. Or you could pack a punch with a statement piece in an attention-getting hue like lipstick red.


While ultraglossy finishes exude a luxe, glam vibe, they can look cold and clinical in some scenarios. But they can be yummy when teamed with high-contrast textures. My favorite materials to use with gloss include tan leather, wood, wool and any soft, cozy fabrics that soften and warm up sleek, shiny designs.

Flooring: high-gloss white resin


5. It adds a modern twist to a traditional space. If your traditional-style space is looking a tad tired, scattering some high-shine furnishings around will liven it up and give it a hint of modern flair. This elegant Victorian home shows how it’s done. Notice how the black glossy coffee table, side tables and lamp bases deliver a touch of contrast and contemporary style without detracting from the room’s classically elegant aesthetic.


6. It makes a room appear bigger. Thanks to their mirror-like sheen, glossy finishes are highly reflective and bounce light around, which helps make small and dimly lit rooms appear brighter, more open and more spacious than they really are.


7. It enhances architectural features. Does your room boast a striking design element, like a feature fireplace, a sloping ceiling or a beautiful built-in that deserves its moment to shine? Applying high-gloss paint or lacquer to the architectural feature will make it stand out and become the hero of the scheme. For maximum impact, choose a glossy hue that’s dramatic, commands attention and pops against the rest of the space, like glam black or an eye-catching jewel or candy-colored tone.

Tell us: Glossy finishes — yay or nay? Share your thoughts in the Comments.

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