Choosing materials is not just a matter of aesthetics
Materials are one of the main reasons why a kitchen continues to function well (and look good) over time.
But not all of them last the same, and not everything that seems “premium” is truly premium.
In this article we review the main materials used in custom kitchens, with honesty and without embellishments.
Countertops: The Kitchen Battlefield
Porcelain and technical stone
✅ Excellent resistance to scratches, heat and stains
✅ Low maintenance
🚫 Be careful with the thin edges: they can jump if they receive a strong impact.
Compact quartz (Silestone type)
✅ Wide variety of colors and finishes
✅ Very good resistance to daily use
🚫 Sensitive to direct heat: always use trivets
High-pressure laminates (HPL)
✅ Economical and visually versatile
✅ Ideal for tight budgets
🚫 They do not tolerate constant humidity or direct cuts
Solid or treated wood
✅ Warm and unique aesthetics
✅ Works great in classic or rustic designs
🚫 Requires more maintenance: not suitable for the careless
Fronts and finishes: beyond beauty
Matte anti-fingerprint finishes
✅ Very aesthetic and modern
✅ Perfect for dark, streak-free fronts
🚫 More expensive than conventional laminates
High gloss
✅ They reflect light, giving a feeling of spaciousness
🚫 They scratch easily and leave fingerprints
Veneered or treated natural wood
✅ Provides texture and warmth without overloading
✅ Ideal for contrast areas
🚫 As always: it depends on the maintenance and the manufacturer
And what about the handles, hardware and hinges?
They're not the center of attention... until something goes wrong.
👉 Always opt for well-known brands: Blum, Hettich, or similar.
👉 Choose hinges with brakes and opening systems that respond well to daily use.
A piece of furniture can look beautiful and still have mechanisms that last six months. Be careful with that.
Conclusion: The right material depends on how you are going to use your kitchen.
The key is not to choose the most expensive or the most fashionable.
It's about choosing what suits your lifestyle, your habits, and your budget.
And if someone advises you well from the beginning, all of that is noticeable later.
🟦 Team Note: Yann & Fran weigh in
“We get a lot of clients asking about materials they've seen online… but that don't make sense for their kitchen. Our job is to explain why, not just say yes.”
— Yann
"Sometimes the best isn't the most striking, but rather what stands up to everyday use without causing problems. And that varies depending on the person, the space, and the routine."
— Fran
